3 Possibilities For Earning Your Degree Sooner

26 April, 2010 (15:57) | Going Back To College Online | By: Sandy

College Graduate Many times when students enroll in online programs to earn their college degrees, the sooner they can get the work done and move into their chosen career, the better. As I mention quite often, it takes a big commitment to fit college study into a busy life and a schedule that is already quite full. So earning a degree in a shorter amount of time could be very beneficial both career wise and personally.

When you explore your options at the online college of your choice, you will be speaking with an enrollment advisor or enrollment counselor. This is the person with whom you should discuss all of your initial questions. He or she will know the answer, be able to find out for you or guide you to someone else to discuss your questions with.

If you primary goal is to earn your degree in as little time as possible, here are a few things you might check into with your enrollment advisor, and don’t take a simple “no” for an answer. Insist on making sure of what is possible:

1. Ask about Transfer Credit

If you’ve completed courses at other colleges, these can often be applied toward the credits you need to graduate. Find out what the process entails, whom you should contact and be proactive about this. Once you find out about your required courses, look at your transcripts from other work you’ve completed and check to see if these can be applied.

2. Find Out if CLEP Tests Are Available

Passing CLEP tests will allow you to bypass some of the required courses for your major. Many colleges have a College Level Exam Program that allows students to prove their proficiency in various types of courses by passing these exams. So if you feel you are proficient in some areas, check out the possibility of taking these tests.

3. Ask If the College Offers Life Experience Credit

Not all schools do, but some colleges will consider life experience credit which can apply to your graduation requirements. You may have to do some work on a portfolio to present to a review committee, but the time and effort will be worth it. If you are allowed to create a portfolio or presentation, be sure you know what types of things they are looking for – community service, leadership, work experience, accomplishments, etc.

If you or someone you know is thinking about online education to earn a college degree or get certification in a particular area, Accredited-Online-Colleges.com is a great place to begin exploring your options. Whether you want to earn your Associate Degree, Bachelor Degree or you’re ready to take your degree to the Master’s level, you can find many accredited programs to help you reach your goals.