On the fast track to graduation
By Jared Libby
March 28, 2023
Programs at Truckee Meadows Community College (TMCC) are constantly evolving. The new Business FastTrack pathway can help students swiftly achieve an Associate of Arts, Business Degree.
Beginning this fall, this completely online program is designed to offer flexibility to students with competing priorities, provide access to full-time enrollment, and ensure timely graduation in one or two years depending on which track you choose. It’s eligible for financial aid, transferable and involves fast-paced learning with the full weight of TMCC’s student resources and support services behind students.
Business degrees lead to career opportunities
Practical and theoretical business knowledge are constantly in demand within the job market, which is why the AA Business Degree is one of TMCC’s most popular.
TMCC’s new program will offer something original and different: Instead of a traditional semester model where students enroll in classes and spend 16 weeks completing them, the Business FastTrack will offer each course individually over a much shorter five-week period. This allows students to focus on just one subject at a time–though they could enroll in two classes simultaneously, cutting graduation time to just one year.
Amy Williams, dean of the business and social sciences division, spots the potential for students who decide to pursue an associate using the Business FastTrack pathway.
“I think it’s a super exciting option for students. It’ll make it more doable for completing their business degree faster than they could with a conventional setup. Having the ability to focus on only one or two subjects at a time is a lot easier for most people to wrap their minds around, and fit into their already busy schedules,” Williams said.
“I love that there are short breaks all throughout the program. This will give students the needed breathing room when they might be feeling overwhelmed or burnt out. They can look at the schedule and realize they have a break in just a few weeks’ time!” Williams continued.
Flexible learning
The FastTrack program is a thoughtful response to public demand for schedule flexibility and work-life balance, which offers a full-time college experience to students who may have previously seen part-time enrollment as their only option. Students can keep their job, maintain a family and social life, and complete coursework at the times (and in the places) that work best for them.
The program also is about community and connecting. Students work closely in a small cohort with others who can help them stay driven and accountable.
“The Business FastTrack cohort model provides a “shared learning experience throughout the entire program,” Williams said.
This article originally was posted here.