Prospective college students who wish to earn college degrees quickly may be able to accelerate their education by enrolling in college programs online before they graduate.

To help individuals finish college in a short amount of time, some online schools are offering classes that allow high school students to earn credits that they may apply to an associates or bachelors degree program.

For example, a charter school in Arizona has launched a distance learning program that allows seniors to create their own schedules and integrate college-level coursework into their graduation requirements.

Students at this school can begin taking college classes at any time during their high school career, as long as they pass certain entrance exams. The cost of course fees and books are covered by the school, provided the student maintains a C average.

Similar programs may help students enter online or campus-based colleges where they can save on tuition costs. Some students can even earn an associates degree, concurrently with a high school diploma, which could enable them to launch a career immediately or earn a bachelors degree in less time.