FAQs

In an Accelerated Master’s pathway, a student often begins taking graduate courses during the senior year of their Bachelor’s studies. This allows you to complete both degrees in an abbreviated timeframe, typically 5 years total.

There are many benefits to enrolling in an Accelerated Master’s pathway including reduced time to degree, cost savings, and enhanced career opportunities. Continue learning alongside the professors and academic support staff with whom you’ve already built successful relationships. Enter the job market sooner and with the advantages of already having a master’s degree. If this sounds like the right fit for you, we encourage you to apply.

Often referred to as 4+1, students typically take five years to complete both the bachelor’s and master’s.

Each Accelerated Master’s pathway has its own application guidelines and requirements. Please review the specific information for the pathway that matches your interests and confer with the department contact.

Each Accelerated Master’s pathway has its own application guidelines and requirements. Please review the specific information for the program that matches your interests and confer with the department contact.

Please consult this updated list of UC Santa Cruz Accelerated Master’s pathways.

Most students in an Accelerated Master’s pathway begin taking graduate courses during the senior year of their bachelor’s degree, with credits applying to both degrees simultaneously. However, each pathway has its own rules and guidelines. Be sure to consult with the department contact and review the pathway specific information.

Each UC Santa Cruz Accelerated Master’s pathway is different. Please consult with the department contact and review the pathway specific information.

In the UC Santa Cruz Accelerated Master’s pathway, you can take graduate courses in your senior year at undergraduate tuition rates.

Each UC Santa Cruz Accelerated Master’s pathway is different. Please consult with the department contact and review the pathway specific information.

Please consult with the department contact and review the pathway specific information.

Each UC Santa Cruz Accelerated Master’s pathway is different. Please consult with the department contact and review the pathway specific information.

Most students in an Accelerated Master’s pathway begin taking graduate courses during the senior year of their bachelor’s degree. Each pathway has its own rules and guidelines in terms of which classes to take and how many graduate courses. Be sure to consult with the department contact and review the pathway specific information.

In most cases, once admitted to an Accelerated Master’s pathway, you’ll be able to register for the required graduate courses in your senior year. Consult with the department contact for more details.

Selecting the right pathway for your interest is always crucial for your academic plans. Consult with your advisor to make sure you’re considering all of your options.

Yes. If you decide not to continue with the Master’s program, while being sure to meet your undergraduate requirements, you can still graduate with your bachelor’s degree. Keep your advisor updated so they can ensure a smooth process regardless of your decision.

Yes. International students can participate in an Accelerated Master’s pathway.

In most cases, the English proficiency demonstrated during your undergraduate admissions process is sufficient. However, all Accelerated Master’s pathway vary somewhat, and it is important to confirm with the department contact.

Yes. Students who transfer to UC Santa Cruz as an undergraduate can participate in an Accelerated Master’s pathway.

No. You do not need to be enrolled at UC Santa Cruz to apply.

Each department sets their own guidelines for accepting graduate course work from other institutions towards Master’s degrees. Please consult with the department contact.