You have heard the term degree completion program, but you are unsure as to what it means and now with you getting ready to return to college you need to know now more than ever. A degree completion program allows for you to get on track and complete your degree despite obstacles such as work.
What is a Degree Completion Program?

You are ready to return to college to complete your degree. The only hang up… you work to support your life’s needs. You have often wondered how you can effectively and successfully complete your college degree while working full-time. Well, there’s hope. It’s called a degree completion program, also referred to as an online, adult, military or bachelor’s degree completion program that allows working adults to complete their college degree who have college credits at a bachelor or associate degree level.

Degree completion programs are typically offered through distance or adult learning programs at both traditional and online colleges and universities. At some universities the student is required to have some college credits. Other universities allow students to use their work and life experiences to be used as college credit, which in turn decreases the amount of time needed to complete their degree. Either way, it allows for working adults to return to school to complete their degree while maintaining their job.

Through the various continuing education departments for working adults, adult learners can choose to earn certificates, non-credit coursework and degrees. Many of these programs are accredited and offer degrees in many of the popular fields of study including, technology, business, education and other popular academic fields.
The Perks of this Program

Unlike the traditional admissions requirements, working adults who enroll in these programs can enjoy the perks of life to count towards their degree. The perks of these completion programs are the ease in using technology, online classes, the scheduling options of courses during a semester or quarter, the ability to use previous college credits and work/life/military experience towards studies and the flexibility to complete your degree as you see fit.

Technology Use. With the continual advancements in technology, going to school is becoming easier and easier for working adults. Now, all you need to attend class is your computer and cell phone. While there are many schools opting to have more online courses, online colleges have the advantage of being accessible at any time, any place, which is the number one perk for working adults trying to complete their degree.

Flexibility of Scheduling Options. Flexibility is priceless to working adults and as a working adult, you have scheduling options that are not like traditional classes. Depending on your college, you may be able to attend classes at night and on the weekend.

Previous Credits. Working adults who previously earned college credits may be able to use those credits toward their degree. For an associate’s degree, some colleges require you have at least 18 hours of previous credit hours while others need a minimum of 54 credit hours.

Work/Life/Military Experience. Working adults may be able to use their work, life and/or military experience towards their degree. In some programs, such as education and business, working in the field you are seeking a degree for a minimum of five years counts as credit towards your degree. Military experience is evaluated through the American Council for Education and compared to the degree