Accelerated Programs
Combine the flexibility of online learning with the time and money savings of an accelerated master's program. In an online accelerated graduate degree program, you'll earn two degrees in less time for a reduced cost. You could earn up to half of your master's degree online while finishing your bachelor's degree.
- Save time: Save up to a whole year by counting select undergraduate courses toward your master's degree.
- Save money: Pay undergraduate prices for select graduate-level courses.
- Stand out: Gain a competitive edge on every application: your dream job, Ph.D. programs and more.
What is an accelerated master's program?
Accelerated master's programs, also known as 4+1, 3+2 dual degree or fast-track programs, let you start your master's while finishing your bachelor's. Typically, you finish the master’s one year after the bachelor’s—earning two degrees in five years—saving time and up to $6,300 in credits, housing and food.
In the first year of your accelerated master's program, you'll take graduate-level courses for undergraduate prices and "double-count" those credits toward both degrees. The amount of double-counted credits varies by program. With some programs, you can earn up to half of your master's degree online while finishing your bachelor's degree!
Explore our accelerated online degree options or learn more about online accelerated master's programs below.
Online accelerated programs
Accelerated master's programs
Master of Art in Higher Education Administration and Social Justice
Our master's degree in higher education prepares students for dynamic careers in higher education administration. CMU has been preparing higher education leaders for over 20 years. Now fully online with reduced credit hours and built to meet the needs of working adults and students holding graduate assistantships, this program equips students with knowledge, skills and experiences to lead change within higher education.
Master of Business Administration
Our in-person or online MBA program prepares you for leadership in today's global economy. This AACSB-accredited program is perfect for you.
Concentrations
- Business Data Analytics
- Cybersecurity
- Finance
- Health Systems Leadership
- Human Resource Management
- Information Systems
- Logistics Management
- Managing for Organizational Excellence
- Marketing
- Project Management
Master of Health Administration
In our MHA program, you'll gain the knowledge and skills to succeed in the demanding field of health care. You'll use those capabilities to lead health organizations in this rewarding profession.
Master of Public Administration
Earn your Master of Public Administration, the gold standard degree for effective leadership in local, state or federal government or the nonprofit sector.
Master of Public Health
The health of our local, regional and global communities is more vital than ever. Explore the important work of public health with a Master of Public Health (MPH) degree from CMU.
Concentrations
- Health Systems Admin
- Public Health Practice
Master of Science in Administration
The Master of Science in Administration shows you what makes organizations work well and how to be an effective manager of people and projects in one of most popular and flexible programs. Customize your MSA program to your desired career path.
Concentrations
- Digital Management
- Engineering Management
- General Administration
- Health Services Administration
- Human Resource Administration
- Leadership
- Philanthropy and Nonprofit Organizations
- Project Management
- Public Administration
- Talent Development
Master of Science in Information Systems
The Masters of Science in Information Systems degree is where core business processes and technology intersect. The program will help you sharpen your skills with modern business systems.
Special Education: The Master Teacher
With your master's degree in special education from CMU, you will excel at understanding and meeting student needs. CMU's master's program in special education will give you the skills to be a master teacher.
Accelerated graduate certificate
Structured Language and Literacy Intervention Graduate Certificate
This 18-credit hour certificate is designed for degree-seeking students of any major and non-degree-seeking students who desire to offer high-quality literacy services using evidence-based instruction and interventions to students with reading difficulties, including dyslexia.
How do I apply to an accelerated online master's program?
The accelerated online master's program application process has two parts:
- Meet with an advisor to discuss requirements and plan your classes.
- Submit an online application.
You'll find more information, admission requirements and courses available for double-counting by selecting your accelerated online degree program in the list of programs above.
How long is an accelerated master's program?
Most accelerated master's programs follow a 4+1 format, which means you'll spend 4 years in undergraduate courses and 1 year in graduate courses. Our online accelerated master's programs allow you to start graduate course work during your final year of your bachelor's degree. You'll graduate with 2 degrees in 5 years instead of 6 years. Timing varies with credits, prerequisites and internship/practicum needs.
What type of student benefits most from an accelerated master's program?
If you are a student with clear career goals and a need for flexibility, an online accelerated master's program could be the perfect fit. These programs help you transition smoothly into specialized study, enter the workforce sooner and cut costs. Accelerated online degree programs are also a great option for working adults interested in fast-track dual bachelor's and master's degree programs.
How does an accelerated master's program differ from a traditional program?
An accelerated master's program lets you take select graduate courses early, pay undergraduate tuition for those courses and apply them to both degrees. Traditional routes separate degrees, don’t share credits and take longer. Accelerated options save a year of time and money through carefully planned overlap.
Contact the Office of Scholarships and Financial Aid for more information (989-774-3674 or cmuosfa@cmich.edu).
What entry requirements can I expect for an accelerated master's program?
You must have earned at least 60 undergraduate credits, completed at least 15 credits at CMU with a minimum 3.0 GPA and have the approval of an advisor. Some programs require prerequisite courses, a statement of purpose, letters of recommendation and/or a résumé. For program details, check out your program's page in Program Finder or the bulletin.
