California Real Estate License Need College Courses?

[Cody Evans]

Hi Agents,

I am looking to start the journey to my license but I am now reading on the California government real estate site that i need to take college courses. I do not mind so much except this takes time.

In the additional information excerpt there is this section reading

"Courses must be three semester-units or four quarter-units at the college level. Courses must be completed at an institution of higher learning accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges or by a comparable regional accrediting agency recognized by the United States Department of Education, or by a private real estate school which has had its courses approved by the California Real Estate Commissioner. Each course approved by the Bureau of Real Estate is a minimum of 45 hours in length."

Does this mean I can use a private real estate school to avoid the lengthy college courses and just finish these private courses at my own pace anytime I want? 

Thank you,

Cody