3+1 Accelerated Degree Program
Bachelor’s to Master’s
Same Admission Process. Same High-Quality Curriculum.
3+1 Accelerated Degree Program
North Carolina Wesleyan University’s 3+1 pathway is a flexible and affordable accelerated degree program. This unique option allows traditional students, adult learners, and transfer students to complete both their bachelor’s and master’s degrees in just four years. By combining a three-year bachelor’s degree with a one-year master’s, you’ll save time, reduce costs, and graduate with an advanced credential that sets you apart in today’s job market.
This accelerated bachelor’s and master’s program is ideal for highly motivated students looking to enter the workforce sooner and with greater qualifications. Whether you’re just starting college or transferring from another institution, NCWU’s 3+1 model provides a clear, efficient pathway to success.
How the 3+1 Accelerated Degree Program Works
Our accelerated undergraduate program is designed for full-time students who are ready to take charge of their future. By attending year-round – including summer terms – you can complete a bachelor’s in three years and a master’s in one, earning two degrees in just four years.
- Complete your bachelor’s and master’s degrees faster through the 3+1 model (3+1 Accelerated Degree Program)
- Receive the same high-quality curriculum as traditional degree tracks
- No extra admissions steps – just express your interest, and an advisor will help you create a personalized plan
- Community college graduates can take advantage of an even faster option by completing their undergraduate and graduate degrees in just 2 to 2.5 years
Why Pursue a 3+1 Degree?
Program Features & Highlights:
Convenient
Easy application process and NO application fees! Accelerated courses online, seated or in a hybrid format. One simple admissions process. Available at all 10 campus locations.
Flexible
Tailored program to get the skills and expertise you need to elevate your career and enter the workforce equipped with an advanced degree.
Affordable
Tuition is benchmarked against private institutions and there are minimal fees. Plus, financial aid and scholarships are available.
Experienced
Our engaging faculty have real-world professional experience to ensure you are challenged and supported through practical coursework.
3+1 Advanced Degree Overview
Requirements:
- Complete 40 semester hours per year (including summers)
- Successfully follow three-year personalized academic plan to completion
- Students must meet all GPA requirements for satisfactory academic progress as outlined in the college catalog.
Acceptance to the graduate programs is competitive and contingent on the student successfully meeting all undergraduate requirements, applying for graduation, bachelor degree conferral and meeting graduate admissions criteria.
The 3+1 Accelerated Degree Program offers multiple combinations of undergraduate and graduate degrees. Students can complete a bachelor’s degree in one of several majors and continue directly into a graduate program in either the Master of Business Administration (MBA), Master of Science in Criminal Justice (MSCJ), Master of Science in Information Technology Management (MSITM) or an Master of Science in Strategic Leadership (MSSL). Available pathways include:
- Accounting + MBA
- Business Administration + MBA
- Computer Information Systems + MBA
- Computer Information Systems + MSITM
- Criminal Justice + MSCJ
- Healthcare Administration + MBA
- Marketing + MBA
- Organizational Leadership + MBA
- Sports Administration + MBA
- Supply Chain Management + MBA
NOTE: Concentrations for the MBA and MSCJ programs are available. Please visit our Graduate Programs for additional information.
What is an accelerated degree program?
An accelerated degree program allows you to complete your bachelor’s and master’s degrees faster than the traditional timeline. NCWU’s 3+1 option is designed to help motivated students earn both degrees in just four years by attending full-time, including summer sessions.
How does the 3+1 program at NCWU work?
The 3+1 program allows you to complete a three-year bachelor’s degree, followed by one year to earn your master’s. You’ll work closely with an academic advisor to follow a personalized course plan, ensuring you meet all credit and GPA requirements each year.
Who can enroll in the accelerated bachelor’s and master’s program?
Traditional first-year students, adult learners, and transfer students – including those from community colleges – are eligible to pursue this accelerated undergraduate program. Associate degree holders can qualify for a 2+1 path, completing both degrees in as little as 2 to 2.5 years.
What are the benefits of enrolling in an accelerated degree program?
You can enter the workforce faster, save money on tuition and fees, and gain a competitive edge with an advanced degree. The program eliminates the need for a separate graduate admissions process and helps reduce costs related to applications, tests, and extra coursework.
Is the curriculum different from a traditional degree path?
No. You receive the same high-quality curriculum as students in standard programs. The accelerated timeline is achieved through a year-round course load and efficient credit planning and not by cutting content or course quality.
Are courses available online?
Yes. Courses in the 3+1 program are available in online, seated, and hybrid formats. This flexibility allows students to complete their degree from anywhere, depending on their schedule and learning preferences.
What graduate degrees can I earn through this pathway?
The 3+1 Accelerated Degree Program offers multiple combinations of undergraduate and graduate degrees. Students can complete a bachelor’s degree in one of several majors and continue directly into a graduate program in either the Master of Business Administration (MBA), Master of Science in Criminal Justice (MSCJ), Master of Science in Information Technology Management (MSITM) or an Master of Science in Strategic Leadership (MSSL). Available pathways include:
- Accounting + MBA
- Business Administration + MBA
- Computer Information Systems + MBA
- Computer Information Systems + MSITM
- Criminal Justice + MSCJ
- Healthcare Administration + MBA
- Marketing + MBA
- Organizational Leadership + MBA
- Sports Administration + MBA
- Supply Chain Management + MBA
What kind of support will I receive?
From day one, students are assigned an academic advisor who will help build a three-year academic plan and monitor their progress. You’ll also have access to NCWU’s career coaches and faculty mentors throughout both degrees.
Does the program cost more than a traditional degree path?
No. In fact, the 3+1 program can be more affordable. You’ll save on tuition over time by earning your degrees faster and reducing the total number of semesters enrolled. Plus, NCWU offers financial aid, scholarships, and minimal fees.
