March 11th, 2023
What is a Bachelor’s—to—Master’s Program?
A bachelor’s—to—master’s program puts your education on the fast track. It’s an accelerated pathway that allows you to earn both degrees in as few as three years. This unique program offers several benefits if you want to speed up your education. With the addition of a graduate degree, you have a depth of knowledge that your peers do not, two degrees to list on your resume, and a broader skillset that can open doors to new career opportunities. You also graduate sooner, and ultimately, enter the workforce more quickly.
Types of Accelerated Bachelor’s—to—Master’s Programs
A bachelor’s—to—master’s is not a one-size-fits-all degree program. Choose the one that meets your needs.
2+1 Program
If you transfer from a community college to a university, or if you have previously earned an associate degree, this pathway is for you. It only takes three years to complete this program, with master’s degree credits earned during the senior year of your undergraduate program. In addition to an associate degree, you must meet institutional requirements such as a specific GPA.
4+1 Program
On the 4+1 pathway, you can earn both degrees in five years. You can enter this program directly from high school, provided you meet the university’s admissions requirements, which may include specific test scores and a high GPA.
Accelerated Program
Like the 4+1 pathway, the accelerated program takes five years to complete. If you are already in college and decide to take this route, you must meet the institution’s GPA requirements and complete at least 90 hours of undergraduate coursework before you can enter the program.
Eligible Majors for Bachelor’s—to—Master’s Programs
Bachelor’s—to—master’s programs may be a great fit if you know the career you intend to pursue and what major will help you get there. But not every major is eligible for the accelerated track. Here are majors that may be accepted:
- Business
- Education
- Health care Administration
- Computer Science
- Human Resource Management
- Mathematics
- Criminal Justice
- Sports Management
At the graduate level, you can choose between a master’s degree in business administration or a master’s degree in health informatics. If you choose to pursue an MBA, you can concentrate on a specific area such as leadership and management, health care administration, or sports management.
Benefits of a Bachelor’s-to-Master’s Program
An accelerated program speeds up your education and allows you to enter your career sooner. While your peers are still in school, you can be at work building your professional portfolio, your network, and your life. If you’re a nontraditional student, or need to work while in school, a shorter program can help you balance your other responsibilities. Here are a few other benefits to consider:
Shorter Semesters
Accelerated programs typically utilize shorter semesters with longer courses to get you through the major more quickly. For example, you may complete a 15-week semester in eight weeks, with fewer classes that have a longer timeframe.
Lower Cost
In the long run, an accelerated program may save you money. Earning two degrees in a shorter time frame helps you beat rising tuition costs and inflation. And completing your degree in fewer semesters may offer institutional cost savings.
Additional Opportunities
The graduate degree can make you eligible for additional opportunities that a bachelor’s degree can’t. For example, if you have your eye set on a job in management, a master’s degree can help you qualify for more than just entry-level positions.
Does the concept of an accelerated program intrigue you? Contact Limestone University today. Through Saints Squared, we offer three different bachelor’s—to—master’s for transfer students, incoming freshman, and current Saints. Click the button to learn more.
