How to Find a Degree Completion Program
Short answer: A degree completion program is designed for adults who have earned college credit but never finished their bachelor’s degree. These programs help you finish faster by accepting transfer credit, offering flexible schedules, and recognizing prior learning.
If you’ve been away from college for several years, work full time, or are balancing family responsibilities, a degree completion program may be the most efficient path back to finishing your degree.
What Is a Degree Completion Program?
Degree completion programs are bachelor’s degree programs designed specifically for adult learners who already have college credit. They are often offered online or in hybrid formats and focus on helping students apply previous coursework and experience toward degree requirements.
Many programs allow students to:
- Complete courses in accelerated formats
- Transfer previously earned college credits
- Earn credit for prior learning, military service, or professional experience
Some colleges also award credit through standardized exams or evaluations of professional experience, which can further reduce the time and cost required to finish your degree.
- College Level Examination Program (CLEP): Recognized by 2,900 colleges across the country, the CLEP allows you to receive college credit based on your score.
- Defense Activity for Non-Traditional Education Support (DANTES): The DANTES test is designed to help military personnel achieve their academic goals. Students can earn college credit for their military training and service. The DANTES test, widely accepted by colleges, is free for service-members or priced with a fee for other interested civilians.
How to Choose the Right Degree Completion Program
Not all degree completion programs are the same. Asking the right questions upfront can help you choose a program that fits your goals, schedule, and budget.
What do you have, and what do you need?
If you are continuing in the same field, you may be able to apply many of your previous credits directly toward your degree. Even if you change majors, general education credits often transfer.
Request official transcripts and ask each school for a transfer credit evaluation before enrolling.
How accelerated is the program?
Many adult-focused programs offer accelerated course formats, year-round enrollment, and flexible pacing. These features can significantly reduce the time it takes to graduate.
Will your credits transfer?
Credit transfer policies vary by institution. Accreditation status plays a major role in whether credits are accepted.
Learn why accreditation matters for transfer credit →
How do you know the program is right for you?
Finishing your degree is a worthwhile investment, but an investment nonetheless. Thankfully, colleges understand that you have an important decision to make and are happy to answer all the questions you have. Reach out to the school or attend an information event to get a feel for the environment and coursework and ask questions about the program. Don’t be shy!
Is the program online, hybrid, or in person?
Degree completion programs are often offered fully online or in hybrid formats. Always confirm whether any on-campus labs, residencies, or internships are required.
How much will it cost?
While tuition matters, affordability also includes transfer credit, financial aid, and time to completion. Many programs are designed to reduce overall cost by minimizing repeated coursework.
Speak with the financial aid office about grants, loans, and employer tuition benefits.
Last updated: January 2026
Reviewed by the Abound: Finish College Editorial Team
How Abound Evaluates Colleges for Adult Learners
Abound: Finish College focuses exclusively on colleges and universities that serve adult and non-traditional students. Our content is reviewed by higher education professionals and informed by publicly available data, institutional disclosures, and direct conversations with accredited colleges and universities.
Schools featured on Abound are evaluated for flexibility, academic quality, student support, and outcomes relevant to working adults and degree-completion students.
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