Many students are looking for ways to save money on a college degree, and one option is to graduate in fewer than four years. Financial advisor Jay Zigmont achieved this by earning a bachelor’s degree in just nine months by taking a combination of courses and exams. He leveraged his experience as a Paramedic and Firefighter to receive 30 college credits and then took CLEP and DANTES exams to test out of additional courses. Zigmont also completed intensive online courses to accelerate his path to a degree, ultimately saving money and time during the process.
Other strategies for accelerating the path to a degree include earning college credits during high school through AP courses or dual enrollment programs. Students can also take advantage of CLEP exams to earn college credit without having to complete the associated courses. Modern States Education Alliance provides resources and vouchers for learners to take CLEP exams at no cost, potentially saving thousands of dollars in college expenses. Additionally, some colleges offer programs that allow students to pursue multiple degrees simultaneously, offering even more opportunities to graduate in less time.
The benefits of fast-tracking a college degree are numerous, including saving money on tuition, materials, and other expenses related to college. By spending less time in school, students can move into the workforce more quickly and begin earning a salary. However, there are also downsides to completing a degree on an advanced timeline. Students may face challenges related to financial aid limits, course availability in the summer and winter, and the intensity of a heavier course load. There is also a risk of burnout and limited time to engage in extracurricular activities or explore other interests while pursuing a degree on an accelerated pace.
While pursuing an accelerated degree is not the right choice for everyone, it can be a valuable option for students looking to save money and enter the workforce sooner. By strategically planning their course load and taking advantage of opportunities to earn college credit through exams and accelerated programs, students may be able to graduate in less time than the traditional four-year timeline. With careful consideration of the pros and cons involved, individuals can determine whether fast-tracking their education is the right choice for their goals and financial circumstances.
