In general, no. Most learners will require approximately the same amount of time to complete the five SCx courses. Especially well-prepared learners may be able to complete the SCx courses in less time overall by taking multiple courses concurrently—but we do not generally recommend this.
Regardless, the schedule of availability for the final course, the Comprehensive Final Exam (CFx), determines when learners can complete the program. The CFx may only be taken after having earned the Course Certificates for all five SCx courses, and it is offered twice each year (in March–May and September–November). Consequently, learners who complete their final SCx course too late for one CFx session must wait until at least the following session.
Overall, the SCM team generally expects that well-prepared learners can complete the program, earning the MicroMasters Program Credential, in approximately 14 to 20 months. See this FAQ article for more information
Key Points:
- Verified Certificates: To earn the MicroMasters Program Credential, you must earn the Course Certificates for all five SCx. This involves actively participating in the courses, completing assignments, and meeting the requirements for verification.
- Scheduled Courses: Four of the five SCx courses follow an instructor-paced schedule, which means the course content is released on a weekly basis, and there are specific deadlines for assignments and exams. The pacing of these courses is determined by the course instructors, and learners are expected to adhere to the established schedule.
- Comprehensive Final Exam: After completing the five SCx courses, learners must also pass the Comprehensive Final Exam (CFx) to earn the MicroMasters Program Credential. The CFx is offered twice per year.
- Fixed Timeframes: Given the scheduled nature of the courses and the requirement to complete them according to their designated timelines, there is no way to reduce the overall time needed to complete the five SCx courses and pass the CFx.