Accelerated Online Degree Programs for Working Adults

Want to go back to school while you’re working? An accelerated online program for working adults gives you the flexibility to complete your program at your own pace and graduate as quickly as you want.

With an accelerated online program, you can get your degree faster. This can help you switch careers or advance faster than a traditional program. Usually, accelerated programs require intense studying, which can monopolize your time. But some programs, like self-paced ones, are created for your schedule — not the other way around. So, you can get the best of both worlds without sacrificing work while pursuing your degree.

An accelerated online degree program is fast-paced and shrinks the graduation timeline compared to a traditional four-year program. Some degree-completion programs accept up to three years of prior college credit, while other options let you start from scratch and take courses at an accelerated pace.

Sometimes, courses allow you to work at any point during the day without attending a lecture at a set time. These asynchronous courses let you work during the day while focusing on your studies at night.

Online accelerated degrees are great for working adults looking to switch careers or advance without sacrificing their current job. These programs are built around your schedule, so you can complete your coursework anytime during the day without worrying about logging on during specific hours.

We found some of the most popular accelerated online degree programs, which can help you advance in your career or switch careers entirely.

Accounting degrees are some of the most popular online programs for working adults. The field is facing a skills shortage, so accountants are in high demand. A bachelor’s degree in accounting covers foundational topics such as managerial accounting, accounting information systems, and auditing.

Florida International University offers two-year bachelor’s degrees for transfer students with enough credits or an AA. Most states currently require 150 postsecondary credits to qualify to sit for Certified Public Accountant licensure, although these rules may be relaxed soon in some areas.

A master’s in business administration is one of the most popular degrees for working adults seeking to move into leadership roles. And a bachelor’s in business is also a good path towards careers in business communications, economics, entrepreneurship, and statistics.

Depending on your previous experience, you can complete a bachelor’s in business in 12-20 months. Institutions such as Franklin University and City University of Seattle award credit for previous college coursework and expertise in the field.

Computer science, a field primarily online by nature, is one of the fastest-growing careers according to the BLS. While these degrees are popular, reports find that some cybersecurity employers value relevant experience over just a degree.

Schools like Regis University, Auburn University, and Lewis University offer accelerated online computer science bachelor’s degrees.

Choosing the right accelerated program is a nuanced process. Make sure the program fits your needs and stage of life, while also considering the college credits you’ve already earned and the type of support a school provides to online learners.

In self-paced programs, you’ll have the flexibility to log in and view lectures or complete coursework at any point in the day. Some may let you finish your course within a few months instead of a few weeks, so you can continue working while doing school. These flexible timeframes let you complete your course as quickly or slowly as you’d like.

If you’ve completed some college courses before, see if your potential program accepts most or all of your credits so you don’t have to pay for more school or take more time to complete your degree. Many colleges also award college credit based on military training and relevant work experience or credentials.

The best accelerated programs offer services especially for students who are working while completing their education. Check to see if your potential program provides resources like one-on-one mentorship or tutoring services, 24/7 technical support, and online clubs and events where you can meet your peers. Some programs also offer free online books.