Accelerated Bachelor's to Master's Degree Programs

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Find your path. Earn Two Degrees in Less Time.

Thinking about continuing your academic career after earning your bachelor’s degree? A master’s degree from South Dakota State University can provide a competitive edge as you enter the job market. Gain that competitive edge much sooner by completing an accelerated Bachelor’s to Master’s Degree program at SDState. There’s no need to wait for commencement to start your graduate school journey.

You may have also heard of these programs referred to as Accelerated Master’s Programs, Dual Degree Programs, 3+2 Programs, 4+1 Programs, or Accelerated Degree Programs. No matter the name, you save two of your most precious resources - time and money. SDState provides academically qualified undergraduate students with the opportunity to complete the requirements for both the bachelor’s and master's degrees at an accelerated pace. Accelerated tracks allow students to get a head start on their graduate education by taking graduate courses following completion of 90 undergraduate credits. In most programs, up to 12 credit hours of graduate work also count toward a bachelor’s degree, thus reducing the time it takes to get both degrees.

Graduate programs with accelerated tracks include:

Entry into the graduate program requires a separate application. Students admitted to the accelerated program will remain an undergraduate until program requirements have been met. During this time, they will have the opportunity to begin taking graduate-level courses that will count towards the completion of their bachelor’s degree and will also be applied for credit towards their master’s degree.

Admission at the undergraduate level does not guarantee admission into the related accelerated graduate program. Students must complete their bachelor’s degree prior to fully transitioning to graduate student status.

Discover the Benefits

- Save money.
- Earn up to 12 credit hours that can be applied toward both a bachelor’s and master’s degree.
- Increase earning potential.
- Enter the workforce and begin earning a higher salary one to two years sooner.
- Accelerate your career and improve job security.
- Complete two degrees in less time than it would take to complete them each separately.

How do I get started?

Complete a minimum of 90 undergraduate credit hours toward your degree requirements with a cumulative grade point average of 3.0 or junior/senior grade point average of 3.2 or higher. Refer to individual programs for specific requirements.

They'll help you determine if you're eligible for an accelerated Bachelor's to Master's Program, and which one is the best fit for you. Interested students must meet with the undergraduate and graduate program advisors regarding program requirements and procedures, and to establish a clear curricular pathway to both degrees.

Some students complete a master's degree in the discipline of their undergraduate degree. Other students move from a related undergraduate major into a different master's program. Students are able to create a program that aligns with their career goals.

Interested students are required to consult with the Office of Financial Aid to determine any potential ramifications during the change from undergraduate to graduate standing.

Submit your completed application for a participating graduate program at least one to two semesters before you plan to start taking graduate courses. Applications will be reviewed by the department of interest and you will receive an admission decision via email.

International Students - Once you have applied and been admitted to the accelerated program, you should immediately inform the Office of International Affairs. Prior to you taking graduate level courses during the fourth year, they will need to make some adjustments to your SEVIS record in order to permit you to take coursework at the graduate level.

Find a Program That Interests You