Our graduate program advisors are here to support your academic and career goals and
provide information about fellowships, academic policies and procedures, course scheduling,
campus resources, and much more.
Frequently Asked Questions
1
When should I apply to the accelerated master's program?
Apply by January 15th for fall admission or September 15th for Spring Admission. You
need to begin planning for the Accelerated MS no later than your Junior year, but
apply during the final year of your bachelor's degree.
2
What kind of funding is available for students in the accelerated master's program?
Many of our students work with faculty on their funded research projects to grow their
skills and broaden their experiences. Additional funding opportunities include teacher
or research assistantship positions, work study, fellowships, and grants.
3
How many credits can double count between my BS and MS degrees?
Up to 9 credits may be double counted.
4
What is the Senior Rule?
You may take up to 10 credits in your senior year. A coursework only MS requires 30
credits to complete; you may take no fewer than 6 credits to graduate with your MS
in your 5th year. More on Senior Rule
5
How long will it take to complete my accelerated master's degree?
You will be able to graduate with both your BS and MS in as few as 5 years
6
Do I need to write a thesis for my accelerated master's degree?
No, all accelerated master's degrees currently offered are coursework-only
7
Can I complete a graduate certificate while doing my accelerated master's program?
Yes! It is easy to add a certificate on to your MS. Talk to your accelerated MS advisor
about this option.
8
Which degree programs in the Department of Social Sciences have accelerated master's
programs?
We offer accelerated MS degrees for all of our programs, including Industrial Heritage
and Archaeology, Environmental Energy and Policy, and Sustainable Communities.
9
What undergraduate degrees are acceptable to also be in an accelerated master's program?
We accept undergraduates from any degree program.
10
What are the prerequisite courses I need to be considered for an accelerated master's
program?
For our Environmental and Energy Policy program, you will need to be sure to complete
a statistics course, a microeconomics course, and environmental science
11
What is required in the application and criteria for admissions to to an accelerated
master's program in the Department of Social Sciences?
You will apply through the Graduate School. The minimum GPA requirement is 3.0. Applicants
must submit a statement of purpose, two letters of recommendation, and all other required application materials.
12
What is the Accelerated Graduate Public Policy Certificate?
This is a nine-credit online certificate program in which students take three seven-week
courses (SS 5301, SS 5318; SS 5350) that are offered every term. Some courses may
be double counted per accelerated master's rules. While some courses may not be taken
as an undergraduate, certificate students must be enrolled as a graduate student for
at least one course.
