Fast-track qualifications are becoming a popular option for people wanting to start “real life” faster. Compared to traditional degree programs, they allow you to finish your education faster.

If you’re looking to kick-start your professional career, fast-track qualifications can be a good foot in the door. However, there are factors you should consider, such as the workload, time commitment and career alignment.

For individuals exploring healthcare pathways, an accelerated nursing program, such as those offered at Baylor University, may be one option worth researching alongside more traditional routes.

What are fast-track qualifications?

Fast-track qualifications, also known as accelerated programs, allow students to complete a degree in a shorter amount of time. They also exist for various education levels, including Bachelor’s, Master’s and even Doctoral.

Accelerated programs usually consist of a condensed version of the regular degree’s curriculum. They are designed to cover the same material, but with more rigorous schedules.

For this reason, fast-track qualifications are a great option for people who excel in fast-paced learning environments.

If you’re trying to decide on an accelerated program, you should consider career outcomes, your current workload, as well as your organizational skills and your learning style.

Career outcomes

Before deciding on a fast-track qualification, you should research job opportunities. Check the Bureau of Labor Statistics outlook handbook for which occupations are expanding and in-demand.

Talk to friends who are already in your desired field. Perhaps even reach out to your chosen educational institution regarding graduate outcomes. It’s also important to consider that some qualifications require extra training or study before you’re “work-ready” like licensing.

If you want a field that’s always in demand and growing, healthcare is a safe bet. The United States is currently facing a shortage of Registered Nurses (RNs), as well as other caregiver roles, which is only expected to worsen in the coming years.

Workload

Another factor to consider is the workload and time commitment. With accelerated programs, you’ll be required to complete the same curriculum within a condensed amount of time.

This requires a high level of organizational skills and motivation. Also, depending on whether the program offers remote learning options, it may also require in-person campus visits.

Generally, most programs will have the expected workload, time for completion and study hours on their institution’s webpage. If you can’t find one, you can always lodge an enquiry.

Organizational skills

Your organizational skills should also be an important factor when considering a fast-track professional qualification. Someone with good time management is better suited to condensed workloads.

However, if you’re not confident in your organizational skills, don’t let that put you off. It’s always possible to start strengthening your organizational skills, implement good routines and improve study habits.

Learning style

When considering a study, it’s important to understand the concept of “learning styles”. This refers to the most effective way a person learns new information.

Learning styles are predominantly split into four different types: visual, auditory, read/write and kinaesthetic. Understanding your own style will not only inform your learning, but can also help you choose a qualification.

When searching for a fast-track qualification that suits you, do your research into how the classes and coursework are conducted. For example, if you’re an auditory learner, make sure there are lectures and verbal content, instead of hands-on practicals. 

If you take into account your learning style as well as organizational skills, a program’s workload and job outcomes, you’ll be better informed before selecting a fast-track professional qualification.