Examining The Lies We've Been Told about Accelerated Degrees
People looking for higher degrees are quick to acknowledge that college costs a fortune. And the higher the degree, the more exponentially costly it is.
It’s odd, then, that some really bright college-bound scholars aren’t more willing to explore one surefire way to lower the cost of their education: accelerated degrees.
One reason for the reluctance may be that Accelerated Degrees remain the victim of some old-school thinking. High-brow higher-degree holders are doing nothing to dispel a lot of misinformation. However, a common sense look at some myths and misconceptions could convince you where truth and lie lay and have you soon onto the fast track for a fast degree.
Savings isn’t significant
Considering the cost of attendance at a private college, it’s easy to see that shaving off even a single semester can save you big money. Make it a full year and you double your savings. Some Bachelor-to-PhD programs reduce your time in school by a full two years. When you note that it’s not unusual for annual tuition and fees at private school to top out over $40,000, you’re talking some serious dough.
Degree work is measured by the quantity of hours spent
The same people who believe quantity trumps quality are probably still corresponding solely by snail mail. Or maybe even Pony Express. The truth is everything happens more quickly today. If you expect to compete in a 21st world, using its resources and technology, the more quickly you get out there, the more competitive you’ll be in the marketplace.
Degree options are limited
Decades ago, when the idea of Accelerated Degree programs was in its infancy, there were limited options of study. Today, the numbers have done a 180 degree turn; it’s harder to find areas of study for which you won’t find an accelerated option.
Whether you’re looking for a Bachelor’s, Master’s or Doctorate degree; whether your field is Business or Psychology, there’s likely a speed-up version of the diploma you want. There are Bachelor’s programs you can complete in three years; programs that combine Bachelor and Master’s degrees which you complete in five years, and programs that take you from Bachelor’s all the way to Doctorate in seven years.
Content is a watered-down version of traditional degrees
Even the most prestigious universities on the globe now teach in ways once considered non-traditional. Just as online classes can be as effective as classroom instruction, Accelerated Degrees can also offer academically challenging coursework that is comparable to study offered in extended format.
Programs are prohibitively exclusive
While some of the most acclaimed Accelerated Degree programs are indeed very selective, there are so many programs available today, there’s likely one that fits your individual strengths and needs. High school students are told early-on that there’s a college for just about everyone. Nearly the same can be said for Accelerated Degree programs. Do the research to find a match and you could soon be on the fast track road to your highest learning potential.
The infographic below looks into the state of digital education. We have seen the emergence of Digital Education. Due to the lesser cost compared to instructor-led education, and the enhanced personalized learning for students, digital education is gaining momentum fast. Several major universities are already offering online degree programs to meet the demand for elearning. Soon, the classroom isn’t just going to be limited to the confines of the four walls of the university.