Degree-completion programs sometimes allow incoming students to transfer courses from their studies at previous post-secondary institutions, reducing the amount of time necessary to complete a degree. Connecticut-based Fairfield University, for example, promises to accept up to 75 credits from previous colleges, which can remove a year or two from a student's time in school. With accelerated courses, students typically taking a part-time load but change classes on a quarterly basis, allowing them to accumulate more credits towards their degree per year than semester-based programs. Designed for working adults, some schools offer course credits for skills and experience gained through a career, further accelerating the process.
Degree-completion programs at traditional, brick-and-mortar colleges and universities offer flexible hours, including night and weekend courses. These programs benefit from the reputation of the host university, and provide classes on campus, but in a setting unique to adult learners, putting students in cohorts to provide a support network. These programs emphasize the accumulation of credits and completing a degree, so students pay by the credit or course, rather than the flat tuition rate charged to full-time students in most traditional, four-year schools.
Working professionals, especially parents, flock to degree-completion schools because of the increased flexibility to learn anywhere and at any time. Such schools typically offer asynchronous courses, removing the requirement to participate in class discussions or complete coursework at the same time as other learners. Instead, course content is delivered via online readings or videos, and students have conversations with teachers and other students on message boards, where professors also post discussion prompts. This format reduces the time constraints of a commute to campus or sitting in a classroom, while still resulting in a degree.
With so many options for completing a college degree, potential students may struggle to find the best program to meet their needs. Because any program represents a significant commitment of time and money, students should carefully consider all factors that impact their ability to complete the degree. Online degree rating websites serve as a starting point for comparing the various features of different programs. Local community colleges and four-year universities generally offer adult education departments that features degree-completion programs. Students should ensure that the program has a good reputation in the field of their choice, has outside accreditation and provides counselors to guide students toward the fastest degree path.