Determine how many actual hours it will take you to complete each credit hour. Typically, you will earn one credit for one hour of class time per week over the course of a semester (usually 15 weeks). A one-credit course usually means 15 hours of class time.
Learn how many credit hours you need to get a degree at your school. Typically, an associate's degree requires 30 credit hours, a bachelor's degree requires 120 credit hours, a master's degree requires 45 to 60 credit hours, and a Ph.D. requires 60 credits after completion of the master's degree. This will vary slightly depending on the institution and the degree type.
Investigate whether you can earn credit hours for work experience. Many schools provide a process of portfolio development awarding college credit hours for work experience. Experience can also include volunteer work or military duty.
Determine how transfer credit hours work at your institution. The credit hours you earned at a previous college are often transferable into your current program. Keep in mind that many colleges limit the amount of credit you can transfer.
Make a comprehensive plan to track all of your college hours efficiently. Regardless of the methods you use to earn college credit, make a careful plan so that the hours you spend in the classroom count toward a degree.
Seek out opportunities to complete an internship or other work experience. Many institutions will offer as many as 15 credit hours for practice work in your future field. In some cases, these experiences come with a salary.