total time for online degree programs
Online degree programs, in general, offer a shorter completion time for the program than do traditional university programs. Online degree programs may vary in total time to complete the program based on program requirements, length of courses, and available classes.
 
Program Requirements

Program requirements differ between programs and schools, with the average undergraduate program requiring at least 120 hours and graduate programs involving 36 hours or more. These requirements may be an important factor in your choice of a school or program, as you may be needing to finish the program to get a promotion or to begin a new career.
 
Course Lengths

Online degree programs offer a variety of course lengths going from six week sessions to traditional sixteen-week semesters. The shorter the course length, the more classes you will be able to take per year; thus, you will be able to complete the program more quickly. Also, for some of us, the idea of a sixteen-week class is excruciating, but we feel that we can survive anything for six weeks; your learning style will probably play an important factor in how well your respond to the length of the course terms. If you pick up concepts and are bored quickly, the shorter class sessions may be what you need to keep you motivated.
 
Classes Offered More Often

Finally, online degree programs tend to offer their classes more often than traditional university programs. In traditional programs, you may have to wait a year or more until a class you need is offered again; this can put a strain on your patience and your wallet, especially if the class is a prerequisite to another required course. Before applying to a school, ensure that you will be entering at a time of the year that will not put you behind; however, because of the larger course offerings, online schools do not generally have this problem.