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Accelerated degrees in the UK

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A new, undergraduate study pathway to graduate sooner

If you are looking to fast-track your career, then accelerated degrees can be your go-to solution. Whether you want to get into the workplace sooner than your peers, or just want to get your master’s degree before the stipulated time -- accelerated degrees are a great option.

An accelerated degree, also known as a fast-track degree, offers an exciting opportunity for all international students to complete their undergraduate program and earn their bachelor's degrees in a span of two years instead of three. Besides, the course content remains the same as traditional degrees with the only difference in duration* and cost of the course. Since accelerated degrees are shorter, you can save a whole year of rent, food, transport, and other living costs. But do keep in mind that you might get fewer holidays as compared to the traditional degree for smooth completion of the course.
*Note: In case of Scotland, the duration of accelerated degrees would be of three years.

Benefits of Accelerated Degrees

A quick way to progress and become work-ready in just two years

Increase your employability chances

With the ability to perform within a shorter time span you can easily stand out to future employers

Helps you become career-focused and prepares you for professional entrance tests

Easy to save one year of living expenses

Allows you to avail fee waivers on specific courses, if eligible

Why pursue accelerated degrees in the UK?

Easy to jump-start your career: British accelerated degrees are designed as two-year bachelor’s degrees and are perfect for international students planning to jump-start their career after their bachelor’s
Money-saving option: Although, tuition fees is up to 20% higher for these accelerated degrees, you can easily save on the living cost (like travel, food etc) for a year
Perfect for gap year students: If you have a gap year in your career or want to resume your studies, then you can opt for an accelerated degree as it will help you get back on track with the peers
An attractive option for mature learners: These degrees aren’t right for everyone. They are specially designed for the ones who want a cheaper and less time-consuming option. It will work for you if you do not require a gentle transition to college life or an extended period of self-discovery

Intakes available for accelerated degrees

In most British institutions, there are two major intakes during the year for accelerated degrees i.e., September and January. But we do recommend checking with IDP’s international education specialist for Study in UK .

Subjects available for accelerated degrees

There are several accelerated bachelor’s programs offered by UK universities. Some of these courses include majors in:

Accounting	Computer Science	Emergency Management	General Studies
Hospitality Management	Liberal Arts	Project Management	Business Administration
Counselling	English	Healthcare Administration	Human Resources
Marketing	Psychology	Communications	Criminal Justice
Finance	Health Science	Human Services	Nursing
Sociology	Computer Programming	Education	Fire Science
History	Information Technology	Political Science	Sports Management

….and many more

Eligibility criteria for accelerated degrees

Every university has its own eligibility requirements for accelerated programmes. You might need a relevant degree in science or social science for a clinical course. In addition, if you have a degree-equivalent qualification like a professional award, it will easily help you get enrolled in an accelerated programme.

You can apply for the same through UCAS (Universities and Colleges Admissions Service) or directly to the university where you want to study. It’s just that UCAS allows you to search for a full-time course and simultaneously view entry requirements. But for more detailed information, you must navigate through university prospectus and websites.

Interesting facts about accelerated degrees in the UK

As per the report published by IFF Research in partnership with UK NARIC (The National Recognition Information Centre for the United Kingdom) in 2018, 59% of the international respondents hadn’t even heard about the Accelerated Degrees

According to the same report, 44% agreed to consider studying an accelerated programme after the concept was introduced to them

Source: https://www.iffresearch.com/perceptions-of-the-uks-unique-higher-education-offer-views-from-international-students/

To conclude, accelerated degrees, offer the same educational outcomes as provided by the established and longer study programmes. If you too wish to be career-ready sooner than others, it will be a great idea to explore your options. You can always connect with IDP’s international education specialist in case you have any queries, jitters, or just want to discuss your plan of action. Best of luck!