As tuition costs for traditional college degree programs continue to rise, many students may be wondering how they can complete their studies and enter the workforce quickly in order to avoid a great deal of education debt. Fortunately, some campus-based and online colleges are launching new programs that can help business students earn both an undergraduate and graduate degree in five years.

For example, a Denver-based school recently announced the availability of a one-year MBA program, which is intended to encourage students to enter a masters program immediately following graduation from a bachelors program.

The curriculum is designed to pick up where students may have left off in their undergraduate studies. Courses will examine topics such as ethics and values-based leadership in addtition to traditional business subjects. Individuals who choose to enroll in the program will be able to choose a concentration in marketing, innovation, entrepreneurship, finance, accounting or real estate and construction management.

Furthermore, students will have the opportunity to develop professionally by participating in business plan writing workshops and consulting projects. Similar programs could help recent college graduates compete in the highly competitive job market.