Key Takeaways:
- GCU’s flexible online programs and rolling start dates let you finish a bachelor’s degree in under a year by.
- You can transfer up to 90 credits including prior college work, certifications, and evaluated professional training.
- Fast-track programs like business management, IT with cybersecurity emphasis, and software development deliver real-world, job-ready skills.
- Partner platforms like Study.com and StraighterLine help you earn transferable credits at lower costs.
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If you think finishing college in less than a year sounds impossible, think again. Grand Canyon University (GCU) offers flexible online programs, generous transfer credit policies, and fast-paced courses that let students complete a bachelor’s degree within 9–12 months.
Here’s how GCU makes it possible:
- New courses start every few weeks, so you can move directly from one class to the next without waiting for a new semester.
- Most bachelor’s degrees require 120 total credits, and GCU accepts up to 90 transfer credits, making it possible to enter your program already three-quarters finished.
- Students can transfer prior college coursework, professional certifications, or even evaluated job training. With 30–45 credits remaining, determined learners can realistically graduate within 9–12 months.
With these time-saving factors in mind, we’ve rounded up the three fastest majors to finish at GCU, plus smart degree hack strategies to help you along the way.
The Fastest GCU Majors to Finish
The following GCU online degree programs are designed for speed, flexibility, and career relevance, helping you graduate in under a year.
1. Bachelor of Science in Business Management
📸Degree Snapshot:
- Total Credits Required: 120
- Transfer Cap: Up to 90 credits
- Average Finish Time: As little as 9–12 months with 60+ transfer credits
GCU’s business management program is built for professionals with experience in leadership, sales, or operations who want to advance into higher-paying management roles. Each course runs for about seven to eight weeks and typically carries three to four credits.
You’ll study core business topics that connect theory to real-world experience like:
- Organizational Behavior
- Leadership and Management
- Marketing Principles
- Operations Management
Your professional experience can help you move quickly through these courses, allowing you to finish the remaining 30 to 60 credits in less than a year.
This degree prepares you to move into positions such as business manager, project coordinator, or team leader, with an emphasis on practical, workplace-ready skills.
2. Bachelor of Science in Information Technology (Cybersecurity Emphasis)
📸Degree Snapshot:
- Total Credits Required: 120
- Transfer Cap: Up to 90 credits
- Average Finish Time: 10–12 months with 60–75 transfer credits
If you already have technical skills or certifications, this IT degree helps you build expertise in digital security. With a full course load of 12 credits per term, you can graduate in less than a year.
You'll take courses in foundational IT subjects in networking and systems administration as well as:
- Network Security
- Cyber Defense
- Ethical Hacking
If you already hold certifications like CompTIA A+, Network+, or Security+, you may qualify for additional transfer or prior-learning credits.
Graduates emerge ready for high-demand roles such as cybersecurity analyst, network specialist, or IT systems administrator—careers with strong job growth and competitive salaries.
3. Bachelor of Science in Software Development
📸Degree Snapshot:
- Total Credits Required: 120
- Transfer Cap: Up to 90 credits
- Average Finish Time: 10–12 months with 60–75 transfer credits
Designed for creative problem-solvers who enjoy building and coding, GCU’s software development program helps you turn technical skills into a tech career. Each seven-week course is worth three to four credits, which will allow you to complete 10–12 credits per term and finish quickly.
You’ll study key software development courses and topics such as:
- Java Programming
- Python
- Data Structures
- Algorithms
- Software Design and Development
Prior experience in programming or logic can help you progress even faster through foundational classes.
This degree prepares you for careers in app development, web design, software engineering, and tech consulting—fields that continue to see high demand across industries.
Smart Ways to Hack Your Degree Timeline
Completing your degree in less than a year takes focus and dedication, but GCU gives you the tools to make it possible. Treat your studies like a full-time job by committing 30 to 40 hours each week, and you can stay on track to finish fast. You can also save time and money by earning approved transfer credits before enrolling.
GCU partners with Study.com and Sophia Learning, platforms offering affordable, self-paced courses that fulfill general education or elective requirements. Study.com aligns particularly well with GCU’s curriculum, letting you complete transferable courses at a fraction of the cost.
Before enrolling, always verify with your GCU counselor which courses will transfer to ensure every credit counts toward your degree.
Fast-Track Your Degree and Future with GCU
Grand Canyon University’s flexible online structure, generous transfer policy, and partnerships with learning platforms like Study.com make earning a bachelor’s degree in under a year possible. Whether you choose business management, IT with cybersecurity emphasis, or software development, GCU’s programs help you save time, reduce costs, and accelerate your career goals.
Explore our other Degree Hacked guides to help you plan your course transfers and build the fastest path to your degree.
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