What Is an Accelerated Business Degree? Answering Your FAQs

For learners who’ve already made academic progress and are ready to finish what they started, the online accelerated BS in Business at New Jersey Institute of Technology (NJIT) is purpose-built to help them complete their degree with flexibility and focus. 

While often referred to as an “accelerated” program due to its flexible, condensed course structure, NJIT’s offering is better described as a degree completion pathway — one designed to help associate’s degree holders maximize their past credits and minimize the time to earning their bachelor’s degree. 

If you're ready to level up and want a faster, more flexible way to complete your business degree, an accelerated program might be the perfect fit. This degree completion pathway is designed to help students maximize past credits and minimize time to graduation. 

This FAQ will help you understand how an accelerated business degree works, how NJIT's program supports adult learners returning to college, and what you can expect if you’re ready to take that next step. 

How is an accelerated business degree different from a traditional one? 

Accelerated business degrees offer the same curriculum and outcomes as traditional business programs, but in a condensed, more flexible format. Courses are delivered in shorter terms, allowing for faster progression and a smoother return to school for busy adults balancing work, school and life. 

Unlike traditional four-year programs, NJIT’s online accelerated Bachelor of Science in Business is tailored for students who already hold a two-year degree in business or a related field. The program delivers the same world-class faculty and academic rigor as on-campus programs, with the added benefit of online convenience. 

Key advantages of the NJIT program include: 

• Condensed 7-week mini courses 
• 24/7 online access 
• Courses taught by experienced faculty who understand working adult needs 
• Cohort-based learning model with a community of motivated peers pursuing similar goals 
• Support staff focused on helping students cross the finish line 

How long does it take to earn an accelerated business degree? 

Many accelerated programs are designed to be completed in 18 to 36 months. NJIT’s program is built for students with an associate’s degree in business or a related field, offering 60 transfer credits toward a bachelor’s. 

With that foundation, many students complete their bachelor’s degree in as little as 24 months. This structure not only accelerates your timeline but also maximizes the value of your prior academic work. 

What is the workload like in an accelerated program? 

Accelerated programs move quickly, with coursework condensed into 7- or 8-week terms rather than the traditional 15-week semester. At NJIT, students take two courses per term, allowing them to dive deeply into each subject while maintaining steady progress. 

This structure helps you stay focused and engaged, balancing learning with work, family, and other commitments. Expect to dedicate about 15–20 hours per week to your studies. And with NJIT’s fully online format, you can access course materials anytime and count on personalized support whenever you need it. 

Who is a good fit for an accelerated program? 

Accelerated business programs are designed for motivated, goal-oriented, working adults who are ready to take the next step and want to make the most out of their previous experience. You might be a great fit if you: 

• Have an associate’s degree in business or a related discipline from a two-year college 
• Are looking to earn a Bachelor of Science in Business 
• Want to advance your career or qualify for new roles 
• Need a program that’s 100% online and built for flexibility 

The online accelerated BS in Business at NJIT helps you build on what you’ve already achieved — so you can finish faster, without putting your life or career on hold. 

What are the typical requirements to qualify for an accelerated business program? 

Requirements for an accelerated business program will vary by institution. Some programs may require a minimum GPA or relevant work experience. Students entering the NJIT program must meet only one criterion: They must have completed a 2-year degree in business or a related field. 

This transfers into 60 credits towards your BS in Business — no guesswork required. You can rest easy knowing you’re maximizing the hard work you’ve already put in, giving you a head start toward earning your bachelor’s degree. 

Can I work while enrolled in an accelerated business program? 

Yes — and many students do. In fact, accelerated online business programs are designed with working adults in mind. 

Balancing school, work and life can be challenging, but NJIT’s online model helps make it possible. With asynchronous courses, you’re not tied to a set class time. You can study early in the morning, late at night or on the weekends — whatever fits your schedule. 

Some employers even offer tuition reimbursement, so check with your HR department to see if support is available. 

What should I look for in an accelerated business program? 

Not all online business programs are created equal. Here are some things to prioritize when choosing where to enroll: 

• Regional accreditation for academic quality 
• Flexible formats that support working adults 
• Dedicated support (advisors, tech support, career coaching) 
• A relevant, industry-aligned curriculum 
• Strong outcomes and alumni success stories 

NJIT checks all of these boxes and more. In fact, our accelerated business program carries AACSB accreditation, a distinction known as the gold standard in business education. As a nationally ranked public STEM institution, NJIT combines academic excellence with a tech-forward perspective — preparing students to thrive in today’s innovation-driven economy. 

What kind of career opportunities can an accelerated business degree lead to? 

A bachelor’s degree in business opens doors to a wide variety of roles, including: 

• Marketing manager 
• Financial analyst 
• Business operations specialist 
• Entrepreneur or small business owner 
• Project manager 

Graduates from NJIT’s program go on to thrive in fast-paced, high-growth sectors. Whether you want to climb the ladder, change industries or start your own venture, this credential can give you the foundation you need to succeed. 

How do I know if NJIT’s accelerated business program is right for me? 

If you’re a goal-oriented professional looking for a degree that aligns with your busy life and ambitious plans, NJIT’s online accelerated B.S. in Business may be the perfect fit. It’s designed specifically for adult learners who want to move forward quickly, without sacrificing quality or outcomes. 

You might find NJIT to be a strong match if you’re looking for a program that: 

• Offers flexible online learning so you can study when and where it works best for you — no commuting or rigid schedules required 
• Honors your past progress by maximizing transfer credits and helping you finish what you started 
• Delivers a high return on investment, preparing you for roles that offer strong salary potential and upward mobility 
• Equips you with real-world business skills that are immediately applicable in today’s tech-driven economy  

As a nationally-ranked public STEM university, NJIT brings a unique edge to business education — combining technical insight with practical business training. You’ll learn from experienced faculty and join a community of highly motivated students who, like you, are ready to take that next step. 

What’s the next step? 

Your degree doesn’t have to wait — and neither does your future. An accelerated business program can help you reach your goals faster and with purpose. 

Find out how NJIT’s program is designed to work for you: on your schedule, with your goals in mind and without putting your life on hold. Explore the accelerated business degree today!