Educational Options

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Educational Options: An Accelerated Degree Program

Paul W. Decker

In the age of high-speed technology and individualized learning opportunities, it was inevitable that the two would become well-suited partners. With the benefits of this technology, institutions of higher education are beginning to develop alternatives to traditional education through on-line or distance learning. But there continues to be a growing need for an interactive learning environment that seeks to mirror the working environment with its myriad of practical concerns and considerations. More importantly, this format strives to meet the needs and challenges of the working adult professional through sound pedagogical methods.

Woodbury University’s accelerated undergraduate degree completion program (AACEL) was established almost two years ago. The program, presented in a time compressed format and utilizing facilitative learning methods, has proven to be a viable learning option for its students as seen in the Program’s tremendous growth. In addition, we are discovering that those students exposed to an accelerated, adult, predominantly non-lecture format on the undergraduate level, are seeking a continuation of their studies in an accelerated format.

In order to continue the program’s momentum and further its growth potential, AACEL is adding a quality controlled option to accomplish this mandate on the graduate level. As a complement to its undergraduate program, Woodbury University is initiating an accelerated MBA complete with those very important factors that make the undergraduate program so successful.

Why are accelerated learning formats proving to be so successful? They are customer-focused, attractive to a wide variety of working professionals and industries. They provide flexible scheduling and can be completed in two years or less by full-time working adults through a variety of scheduling options.

They use a modularized curriculum supported by the use of twelve course modules that outline outcomes and objectives. They have faculty practitioners who are proven, practicing professionals who bring “real” world experience to the course curriculum. And they provide a very interactive classroom format with collaborative learning, student presentations, and team projects supporting the small, seminar-like classes.

Paul W. Decker is Executive Director, Accelerated Learning Programs for Woodbury University in

Burbank.

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