Accelerated Bachelor’s to Master’s Pathways

Accelerated Bachelor’s to Master’s Pathways

Get Ready to Fast-Track Your Master’s Degree

Accelerated bachelor’s to master’s (ABM) pathways allow you to begin master’s studies in your senior year so you can accelerate completion of a master’s degree.

ABM pathways are perfect if you’re interested in proceeding directly from bachelor’s to master’s studies. They allow you to reduce the time it takes to get your master’s degree, giving you a head start on your career. And since any master’s courses taken as an undergraduate are billed at the undergraduate tuition rate, you’ll save money too.

Who is Eligible? Eligibility for the pathway approval and graduate admissions requirements vary by program. To find out if you’re eligible, select a program of interest below to review the admission requirements. For additional questions, click the “I’m interested” button to reach out to the program coordinator.

Why Should I Get a Master’s Degree?

A master’s degree can prepare you for an advanced position in your career immediately after you graduate. A master’s degree can also immediately increase your earning potential. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, median earnings for full-time, year-round workers holding a bachelor’s degree was $66,536 in 2019. With a master’s degree, median earnings for full-time employees jumped to $81,636 — nearly 23% more. With a doctoral degree, median earnings were $113,578, and earnings with a professional degree were $127,487.

*$81,636

*Median earnings for full-time employees with a master’s degree

How Does it Work?

To earn an advanced degree, typically you would have to complete a bachelor’s program, then reapply for a two-year master’s degree. Accelerated bachelor’s to master’s pathways provide qualified undergraduate students the opportunity to begin graduate studies in their senior year and simultaneously satisfy some remaining requirements for their bachelor’s degree. You’ll earn both your bachelor’s and master’s degrees at a faster pace with fewer courses and less cost.

If you are interested in applying for an ABM program, it’s important to speak to your academic advisor early — ideally by your sophomore year. Students must apply and be admitted into the master’s program in the semester preceding the beginning of their ABM program. Programs may offer either a non-thesis or thesis track. 

Note: Admission to an Accelerated Bachelor’s to Master’s degree program is different from Senior Privilege. Please refer to the policy on Senior Privilege for more information.

Accelerated Bachelor’s to Master’s Pathways

Search for a program pathway of interest and click to expand for additional details.

Bachelor's ProgramMaster's ProgramsMaster's Description

Frequently Asked Questions

Why should I choose an accelerated bachelor’s to master’s program?

Provides the opportunity to complete requirements for two degrees in an accelerated fashion. It reduces overall cost and time to complete a master’s degree.

How many credit hours are required to apply?

To apply, a student must be at least a junior in their bachelor’s program.

How do I apply?

To be considered you must complete this form. Once you complete your undergraduate requirements, you will submit a graduate application.

What are the requirements for continuing in the program?

This varies by program- most require you to earn a B or better in the graduate level coursework.

When and how do I apply for graduate school?

Once enrolled in an ABM program and all of your undergraduate requirements have been completed, you will need to submit a graduate application for graduate program enrollment. 

Do I have to write a thesis?

Some programs might require a thesis. Be sure you are speaking with the bachelor’s and master’s advisors when making your choice. 

Do I have to take my final year of master’s courses immediately after finishing my bachelor’s degree?

You must begin graduate classes when your graduate admit term starts. Your start term depends on when you complete your undergraduate requirements and when your graduate program admits you. 

I’m a transfer student. What special details do I need to know?

Speak to your admissions counselor to see if this is a beneficial pathway.

Still Have Questions?

Email gradadmissions@georgiasouthern.edu