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Spring Term 2026 Registration is Open

Fast Track Degree Programs

Earn degrees in Teacher Education, Early Childhood Multicultural Education or a Fire Academy Certification in our accelerated programs.

Start with an Info Session

You must attend a Fast Track Info Session before applying to a Fast Track Program. We will share all the details you need to know and answer any questions you may have. 

View Info Sessions

Accelerated Programs with Full Support

Fast Track programs at CNM are designed to help you earn a certificate or degree quickly without sacrificing support. You’ll move through your classes with a small group of peers (a cohort), following a set schedule that makes planning easy.

From registration to graduation, a dedicated program manager will guide you every step of the way, while experienced faculty help you learn all you need to know to start a successful career. 

Fast Track Benefits

  • Cost-effective digital textbooks
  • Windows laptop included  
  • Ability to work full-time 
  • Access to CNM services and resources
  • Expert help with degree transfer

Explore Fast Track Pathways

Early Childhood Multicultural Education
Early Childhood Multicultural Education

Earn your associate degree in 18 months with a flexible, hybrid class schedule. We offer online and evening classes than can be completed in full-length terms or seven-week blocks. 

Special Requirements

  • Attend a Fast Track Info Session
  • Apply and be accepted to CNM 
  • Meet math and reading/writing proficiency through previous coursework or placement tests
  • Submit a Fast Track Application with personal statement/essay
Teacher Education
Teacher Education

Earn an associate degree in Teacher Education with a concentration in Elementary/Special Education in just 18 months. Our program is completely online and combines traditional-length and seven-week classes. 

Special Requirements

  • Attend a Fast Track Info Session
  • Apply and be accepted to CNM 
  • Meet math and reading/writing proficiency through previous coursework or placement tests
  • Submit a Fast Track Application with personal statement/essay
Fire Academy
Fire Academy

Earn your Fire Academy Certification in just 20-weeks with the full support of a close-knit cohort. Our curriculum is structured and demanding, meeting national standards and mirroring the training provided by local fire departments. 

Special Requirements

  • Attend a Fast Track Info Session
  • Apply and be accepted to CNM 
  • Submit a Fast Track Application with personal statement/essay 
  • Must be 18 or older
  • Must be in good overall health 
  • Pass criminal background checks 
Attend an Information Session

Before you apply to a Fast Track program, you must attend a Fast Track Information Session.

You’ll get answers to key questions about cost, class schedules, payment options, and how the program works. It’s the best way to understand the benefits and decide if Fast Track is right for you. Plus, you’ll have the chance to meet program managers who will support you from day one through graduation.

Upcoming Fast Track Info Sessions

Additional Fast Track Details

Dates and Deadlines

  • All Fire Academy cohorts begin in the Spring and have a rolling deadline. 
  • All Education cohorts begin in the Fall.
    • The deadline to apply for the next Education cohort is July 17, 2026. 

Paying for School

Fast Track programs are eligible for financial aid! Learn more about the financial supports available to you by visiting our Financial Aid and Scholarships webpage. 

Fast Track Student Spotlight

Mia Langeler always dreamed of becoming a firefighter, and her dreams were realized when she joined the CNM Fast Track Fire Academy. At her recent graduation ceremony, Mia was named the Top Cadet, which is presented to one cohort member who shows exceptional dedication, resilience, and skill.

Mia Langler holds flowers and a plaque at her Fast Track graduation ceremony.

I’ll be the first to tell you it will probably be the toughest 20 weeks of your life. But it is all worth it in the end. If you can keep a positive attitude and push yourself alongside your cohort, you will get so much out the experience. — Mia Langeler

Have Additional Questions? 

If you have questions, fill out our Request More Information form. Be sure to select 'CNM My Way' from the program options for faster service.

Ready to Begin? 

Follow these steps to get started with a Fast Track program. 

  1. Attend an Info Session: Visit our Fast Track Programs calendar feed to check out the upcoming info session dates. 
  2. Apply to CNM: You must be a currently enrolled student at CNM in order to start a Fast Track program. 
  3. Complete the Fast Track Application: The Fast Track Application is separate from the CNM application and is where you will upload your personal statement/essay.