In the previous blog post, Extending Study and H1B Lottery Opportunities at Day 1 CPT Universities, we delved into the strategy of legally extending your degree up to 5 years to increase your chances of winning the H1B lottery. However, for students with only a bachelor's degree who are eager to utilize their Master's OPT as soon as possible, the question arises - what can they do? In the following discussion, we will highlight schools that offer the flexibility to minimize your study duration to just one year.
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Shortening the study duration is crucial for several reasons, below are the pros and cons of shortening your study at a Day 1 CPT school:
1. Cost savings: Completing your program in just a year can help you avoid certain registration fees and reduce on-site attendance requirements, leading to savings on transportation and accommodation expenses.
2. Maximizing CPT utilization: It's essential to adhere to the OPT restrictions on full-time employment within a year after graduation.
1. Academic intensity: Shortening your study duration may mean taking on a heavier course load each semester. Balancing multiple classes, assignments, and exams within a condensed timeframe requires commitment, time management, and dedication. While the pressure to excel in a more intense academic environment can be daunting, successfully managing this workload showcases your ability to excel under pressure, a valuable skill in the competitive job market.
2. Financial considerations: Opting for a Day 1 CPT program within a year means paying the total tuition upfront. Careful planning of your payment plan is essential to manage this increase in financial burden.
3. More On-Site Frequency: Typically, students enrolled in Day 1 CPT universities are required to take a minimum of 2 courses, totaling at least 6 credits per semester. One course is usually conducted on-site, while the other is offered online. Should you opt to accelerate your studies within a year, be prepared to take on a heavier course load per semester.
Now, let's explore some universities that offer expedited programs:
The primary campus is situated in Irvine, CA, in close proximity to numerous major corporations. Westcliff University offers a variety of Day 1 CPT programs, such as MBA (STEM), MSEM (STEM), TESOL, MSIT (STEM), and MSCS (STEM), providing ample opportunities for students to choose their desired career paths. Some of Westcliff's MBA concentrations fall within the STEM category for those not inclined towards highly technical roles, granting an additional 2 years of STEM OPT post-graduation.
Enhance your professional journey with Saint Peter’s University’s Master of Science in Business Analytics. Acquire vital expertise and practical insights within a 30-credit curriculum, preparing you for a wide array of business analyst roles. Designed for working professionals, this program equips you to harness data for strategic decision-making across diverse industries, strengthening your leadership abilities. To specialize in a particular area, students must complete 9 courses, totaling 27 credit hours within the concentration, and select 1 elective from the options of GB, DS, CO, FN, or AC.
Sofia University operates on a quarter academic format, giving students the flexibility to choose their concentration during the MBA program. If a student decides to pursue the degree without a concentration and aims to complete it within a year, they will have only 1 year of OPT. With a requirement of 36 credit hours to finish the program, Sofia University is dedicated to assisting students in securing their first internship placement. The university offers support in finding suitable placements, suggesting alternative internships, and providing guidance on temporary waivers if needed.
Trine University stands out as a popular choice among students due to its affordable tuition fees and streamlined 30-credit-hour programs. With a focus on providing quality education at an accessible cost, Trine University offers a range of Day 1 CPT programs, including MBA, MSBA (STEM), MSEM (STEM), and MSIS (STEM). The university has multiple campus locations providing students with flexibility in their choice of study environment. By completing their programs within just 12 months, students at Trine University can expedite their education and take advantage of OPT opportunities in the competitive job market.
By opting for a Day 1 CPT school that provides expedited programs, students holding bachelor's degrees have the advantage of accelerating their academic journey and seizing the full potential of their Optional Practical Training (OPT) in the competitive job market. These accelerated programs not only allow students to complete their studies in a shorter timeframe but also equip them with the necessary skills and knowledge to excel in their chosen fields. By strategically selecting universities that offer such programs, students can efficiently navigate their educational path, gain valuable work experience through OPT, and enhance their career prospects upon graduation.