I think that taking almost 8 years to complete a virtual course is slightly absurd but that can stay the same if you add a shortcut. I think it would be better if there was possibly a way to cheat on a test to do homework, things along those lines that could deduct the time left until the course is completed. We could have positive and negative boost. This could use nerve to keep it from being abused.
Positive Boost: Doing homework takes of 1 hour of the course you have to do.
Negative Boost: Cheating on a Test could reduce the time but if you get caught you get time added or have to restart the course. You would get more of a boost from negative boost. This is when you balance risk and reward.