By using transfer credits to my advantage and being smart with course schedules, I earned my bachelor's degree in less than four years. Sometimes it's helpful to take time in college to explore interests and develop talents. But, some distance learners just want to finish that degree...as soon as possible.

My About.com article addresses the question: How can I earn an online degree in less time? Here's one of the suggestions:

"Insist on transfer equivalencies. Don't let work you've done at other colleges go to waste; ask your current college to give you transfer equivalencies. Even after your college has decided what classes to give you credit for, check to see if any of the classes you have already completed could be counted to fill another graduation requirement. Your school will probably have an office that reviews transfer credit petitions on a weekly basis. Ask for that department's policies on transfer credits and put together a petition. Include a thorough explanation of the class you have completed and why it should be counted as an equivalency. If you include course descriptions from your previous and current schools' course handbooks as evidence, chances are you'll get the credits."

If you're looking to speed up your studies, check out the article for more ideas.