A UNIVERSITY DEGREE is one of the largest investments in any student’s life. Tuition costs have increased significantly in recent years, making it challenging for many students to obtain a college degree. If students can save time in university, they may be able to reduce costs. Some programs enable students to complete their degree in three years instead of the traditional four.
Students can save by taking advantage of their time in high school to minimize their total time in college. Even saving just one semester can help students significantly reduce costs.
“Traditional college programs require students to complete 120 credits. One way students can achieve this is by earning credits while still in high school.”
These credits can come in various forms. Some students earn credits through dual-enrollment programs—often conducted at community colleges—Advanced Placement (AP) classes, International Baccalaureate programs, or College-Level Examination Program (CLEP) tests.
However, to ensure a smooth credit transfer process, students should proactively research the general requirements of the college program they plan to attend. This helps students determine which credits can be transferred and which cannot.
For example, some universities do not accept AP credit scores. Since these rules are set by individual schools, students can check this information on the College Board website to understand the credit transfer policies.
College is more than just attending classes, especially in a well-rounded educational environment like the United States. Students can gain valuable experiences and job connections through internships and co-op programs.
The advice for students striving to complete their degree in three years is not to skip internships. These are where students gain the most practical learning experiences, connect with the community, or engage in research even as undergraduates, supporting their formal education.
Remember, a three-year college program is not for everyone. Completing 120 credits in three years is a significant challenge that requires great perseverance, discipline, and commitment from students.
Bob Zemsky, a professor at the Graduate School of Education at the University of Pennsylvania, has spent many years studying three-year degree programs. With the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, this requirement has become even more urgent. According to Zemsky, more universities should introduce three-year programs with 90 credits to reduce the time students spend in college—a model that is very popular in places like the UK.
According to Zemsky, restructuring the academic calendar to ensure students graduate sooner makes sense. In reality, the current semester system with a long summer break is largely based on ancient agricultural practices, where students needed time to return home and help their families.
