Top 5 Reasons to Choose an Accelerated Education Degree

We can define accelerated education degree programs by describing their main characteristics.

Intended for aspiring teachers who want to earn a bachelor’s degree in education.
Designed with a condensed curriculum. Students complete didactic courses and field placements (e.g., classroom teaching).
With a shorter completion time, usually two years or less. Traditional programs take at least four years to complete.
Designed with the same quality of academic instruction as traditional programs.
With fast-paced coursework. Students complete more courses per term or attend courses that are completed more quickly (e.g., 8 weeks).

With these in mind, earning fast-track teaching degrees isn’t a walk in the park. You have to adopt effective time management skills, as well as be determined and driven.

However, there are plenty of reasons to choose an accelerated education degree program. For one thing, you can be part of the solution to addressing the national teacher shortage. Studies estimate at least 55,000 vacant teaching positions across the country. Plus, there are 270,000 teaching posts with underqualified teachers in them.

You’ll also love the affordability, convenience, and career growth these programs bring. Read on and find more reasons to consider accelerated education degree programs now.

Related:

Reason #1 – Start Your Teaching Career Sooner

The foremost reason is you can start teaching sooner with an accelerated degree.

Faster Path to Licensure

Students in fast-track teaching programs can earn their degrees and teaching licenses sooner. Depending on the program, you can achieve both in 12-18 months. In contrast, traditional degree programs have a longer completion time (i.e., 2-4 years).

Meeting the Demand for Teachers

If you earn a teaching degree quickly, you’ll meet the demand for teachers in your area faster. Many states have teacher shortages that have a domino effect.

Too few teachers lead to increased class sizes and decreased individualized attention. Academic performance among students suffers. Overworked teachers experience burnout, which increases the risk of quitting their jobs. And so the cycle of teacher shortages starts.

With accelerated education degree programs, there’s a chance to stop the cycle. These programs fill in the gaps left by teacher shortages.

Many states offer aspiring teachers with perks to attract them to the profession. Texas, Florida, and Illinois offer signing bonuses and loan forgiveness programs.

Career Changers

Do you want to transition into a teaching career as a second profession? If yes, you must consider an accelerated education degree now. You can also leverage your existing knowledge and skills.

Dr. Jake Allen, an alumnus of Indiana University Bloomington, has this to say about its accelerated program:

“With a degree in English Literature…the T2T program provided me with the perfect opportunity to find my passion for teaching.”

Reason #2 – Save Money on Tuition and Living Costs

The average cost of college is $38,270 per student per year for direct and indirect costs (EDI, 2024). Then, there’s the real median household income – $80,610 per year (Census.gov, 2023). Think about it: You’ll spend 47.5% of a family’s income on a bachelor’s degree. Now, that’s expensive.

Fortunately, here are the ways you can save money with accelerated education degrees.

Lower Overall Costs

You’ll enjoy cost savings because accelerated degree programs have shorter completion times. This means fewer semesters where you’re obligated to pay tuition and fees.

Instead of paying tuition and fees for 2-4 years, you’ll only do so for 12-18 months. Accelerated degree programs usually have the same tuition rates as standard programs, too.

Since you’re in school for a shorter period, you’ll spend less on indirect and living expenses, too. These include room and board, books and supplies, and transportation.

Financial Aid Opportunities

Be sure to explore these forms of financial aid for fast-track teaching programs:

Federal and state aid
Grants and scholarships
Tuition discounts
Employer sponsorships and tuition reimbursements

Loans should be a last resort because of their interest rates and need for repayment. But if these are necessary, check the terms and conditions. Explore loan forgiveness programs, too.

Affordable Non-Profit Colleges

You must consider non-profit colleges for their affordable teaching degrees, too. These colleges are known for their more affordable tuition, financial aid options, and transparent pricing.

Cost vs. ROI

Accelerated degree programs also provide better returns on investment for these reasons.

Faster entry into the workforce, meaning you’re recoup your costs sooner
Reduced student debts, thanks to more affordable tuition and living costs

You’ll also enjoy non-monetary returns, such as opportunities to make a positive impact.

Reason #3 – Flexibility for Busy Students

Balancing work and teaching coursework is no easy feat. The good news is that flexible accelerated education degrees enable students to do them all. Here’s how it’s possible.

Online and Hybrid Options

Many accelerated programs are available in 100% online and hybrid learning formats. Students access learning materials, among other activities, 24/7 via an Internet-connected device. Even on-campus activities are scheduled for convenience, such as only on weekends.

Online fast-track teaching programs also offer excellent student support services. Academic advising, tutoring, and writing and math centers are common.

Self-Paced Learning

Yes, it is possible to learn at your own pace and style. You can earn your degree at a slower or faster ime depending on your understanding of the learning materials. But keep in mind, too, that accelerated programs are so named for a reason. You should keep up with the fast-paced coursework and submit assignments on time.

Catering to Non-Traditional Students

Accelerated programs are ideal for non-traditional students seeking a flexible, accessible, and affordable education. These include working professionals, adult learners, parents, and paraprofessionals.

Check out the online accelerated programs in education at these accredited universities:

Western Governors University
Arizona State University Online
Liberty University
Southern New Hampshire University
Purdue Global

With these schools, financial and geographical barriers can be overcome.

Reason #4 – Gain Real-World Experience Quickly

Students in accelerated programs also gain real-world teaching experience. But their real-world teaching experiences happen faster without compromising on quality.

Condensed Fieldwork Opportunities

Fieldwork in accelerated education programs usually integrates student teaching and practical experiences. These experiences are completed early in the program for faster completion, too.

Hands-On Training

Student teaching in fast-track programs prepares students for the challenges of classroom management. Student-teachers learn to apply educational theories in real-world settings. Hands-on training also enables them to design lesson plans, use educational technology, and build their confidence.

Strong School Partnerships

Many accelerated programs also have partnerships with local districts and schools. Your program can make the arrangements for field placements in these schools. This way, you can enjoy immersive learning experiences.

You’ll also learn from the direct supervision and mentorship of experienced teachers. There are excellent opportunities to expand your network. Plus, you can be hired as a full-time teacher in these schools after earning your license.

Career-Ready Graduates

Indeed, you’ll be more than ready to become an effective teacher after graduation. You have the knowledge and skills that will lead to your success in licensure, too.

Being career-ready is a valuable trait when you’re applying for jobs. Even in a teacher shortage, it’s still a competitive market.

Reason #5 – Advance Your Career with Specializations

Many accelerated programs offer specializations that expand your expertise and horizons. Choosing a specialization brings many benefits to your career.

Specialized Tracks in Accelerated Programs

The beauty of earning a degree in education is the wide range of specialized tracks. Popular specializations in accelerated education degrees include:

Special education
STEM subjects (math and science)
Social sciences
Reading and literacy
Curriculum and instruction
Early childhood education

Choose based on your interests and goals, as well as the market needs. STEM and special education fast-track degrees are among the most in-demand today.

Career Growth Opportunities

Faster career advancement in teaching is possible with a specialized degree. You’ll find more job opportunities for leadership positions, such as master teacher. Higher salaries come with higher positions, of course. Your expertise as an educator will be more in demand, too.

Professional Development

Graduates of accelerated programs are also more able to pursue advanced certifications sooner. You can earn additional certifications in STEM, ESL, and other areas. There’s also the option of earning a master’s degree, such as an MAT or MEd.

Check out universities that offer education programs with specialized tracks. The University of Southern California, ASU Online, and WGU come to mind.

Conclusion

To recap, here are the best reasons to choose an accelerated education degree program:

Starting your teaching career sooner
Saving money on direct and indirect costs
Flexible schedules suitable for busy students
Gain real-world experience in an efficient manner
Career advancement opportunities through specializations

Indeed, these are accelerated education degree benefits that can’t be easily overlooked. You should consider non-profit teaching degree programs if you want to enjoy them.

Explore the Non Profit Colleges Online website for more information about these programs. You’ll find affordable programs that will meet your needs in teacher education.

School Finder