i am as well studying NSCA-CPT. im not sure you need a 4 yr degree for that. I hope not, i have one but its not in anything related. It will take approx. 4 - 6 months to be fully prepared, depending on how much time to put to it. I borrowed the textbook from a friend to get a head start. I have a full time job so it will take much longer for me.
its really hard, lots of info to take in.