Accelerated Degrees
Choosing how long to study is a big decision. At SAE Institute UK, we offer both two-year accelerated degrees and three-year degrees, giving you the flexibility to choose the route that best fits your goals, learning style, and pace.
Both options lead to the same academic level qualification. The difference is how your learning is structured.
How a Two-Year Accelerated Degree Works
An accelerated degree allows you to complete your studies in two years instead of three by teaching across more of the year. This means you reach graduation sooner, without lowering academic standards or cutting essential content.
This route is designed for students who are ready to focus, stay engaged, and move into the creative industries as quickly as possible.
Many students choose the accelerated route because it allows them to graduate earlier, reduce overall living costs, and begin building professional experience sooner. Starting work or freelancing a year earlier can make a real difference, especially in fast-moving creative industries.
The learning experience remains practical and industry focused. From day one, you’ll work on real projects, collaborate with others, and build a portfolio that reflects how creative teams work in the real world.
Why Some Students Choose a Three-Year Degree
A three-year degree follows a more traditional university structure, with learning spread over a longer period.
This option can suit students who prefer a slower academic pace, want more time to explore their creative direction, or value a more familiar study experience. While it involves an additional year of study and living costs, many students appreciate the extra time to develop confidence and refine their skills.
Both routes are valid, and both are designed to prepare you for creative careers.
Which Route Is Right for You?
A two-year accelerated degree may be right for you if you are motivated, ready to commit, and keen to enter the industry sooner.
A three-year degree may be better if you prefer more time to learn, reflect, and develop at a steadier pace.
There is no single right choice. What matters is finding the structure that helps you get the most out of your studies.
The best way to decide is to book an SAE open day below or give us a call, where you can talk through how each route works with lecturers and staff, discuss pace, student finance, and outcomes, and get clear, honest advice on which option is right for you.
Accelerated Degrees FAQs
Yes. You study the same subject area and reach the same academic level. On the accelerated route, learning is delivered over a shorter timeframe by teaching across more of the year.
Yes. Eligible students can apply for student finance on both two-year accelerated degrees and three-year degrees, subject to standard funding criteria.
The pace is more focused because learning is delivered over a shorter period. Many students enjoy this structure as it helps maintain momentum, but it does require commitment and good time management.
Yes. Practical projects, collaboration, and industry-focused learning are central to all SAE degrees, regardless of whether you choose the two-year or three-year route.
No. Employers focus on your skills, experience, and portfolio. Graduating sooner can allow you to enter the industry and start building professional experience earlier.
Many students choose a two-year accelerated degree because it allows them to graduate sooner, reduce overall living costs, and move into the creative industries earlier. It suits those who prefer a focused learning experience and feel ready to commit to a faster-paced route into their career.
A three-year degree can suit students who prefer a slower academic pace, want more time to explore their creative direction, or value a more traditional university structure.
Yes. You can book an open day or give us a call to speak with lecturers and staff, who can talk you through both routes and help you decide which option suits you best.
In some cases, this may be possible depending on your course and circumstances. This is best discussed directly with a member of the team.
The right choice depends on your goals, learning style, and how you prefer to study. Speaking with lecturers and staff at an open day or over the phone can help you make an informed decision.
Any questions?
For any questions regarding our courses or if you’d like more information on our accelerated degrees at SAE, please contact our Enquiries Team on 03330 112 315 or email ukadmissions@sae.edu.
