Many colleges and universities around the country offer an accelerated degree program to students so that they can graduate in three years, instead of the traditional four years. As this becomes a more popular path for many students, the debate rages about the merits of this fast track. One side of the argument cites the incredible savings available to students and their families if they can shave off a year of tuition and fees. On the other hand, some argue that students miss out on too much if they don’t graduate with the class with whom they began their college years.
There is no underestimating the astronomical rate at which college tuitions have climbed over the past 25 years. Attending a private college for four years can cost as much as buying a home. With this in mind, the prospect of finishing school in just three years is attractive to students unwilling or unable to afford the traditional four years of college. Many colleges that offer this fast track program don’t even require their students to take summer courses, which represents more savings. In order to finish a degree in three years, students take at least one extra course per semester. Advocates of this fast track admit that the workload is certainly heavier than that of "regular" students. However, they firmly believe that students armed with a strong work ethic can still enjoy all the extracurricular activities college has to offer.
This is where the other side of debate enters the picture. Individuals who disagree with this path to a degree feel that students will be unable to enjoy all that college truly has to offer. While everyone agrees that academics are the most important aspect of the college experience, those in favor of the traditional four-year plan espouse the merits of the social life that is so unique to a college environment. As important as it is to grow intellectually in college, these individuals also believe this is a crucial stage in the development of character and personality for students. If they are swamped with extra courses, they won’t be able to grow as social beings.
Sadly, this debate really comes down to dollars and cents. If you can afford to pay for four years of college, then you can complete your degree under less pressurized circumstances. However, if the exorbitant costs of college are too much of a burden for you and your family, then the fast track will put you into the real world with less debt.