Imagine earning both your bachelor鈥檚 and master鈥檚 degree in just five academic years. At 黑料社, that opportunity exists through the 4+1 Program. As part of 4+1 Week, the University is highlighting how the program helps students accelerate their careers while gaining a competitive edge in the workforce.
Through the 4+1 Program, students apply during their junior year and begin taking graduate-level courses during their senior year. These courses count toward both undergraduate elective requirements and their future graduate degree. After completing their fourth year, students graduate with their bachelor鈥檚 degree before transitioning into their fifth year as full-time graduate students.
鈥淥ne of the benefits of the program is finishing graduate school in one year, as opposed to the normal 14 months, 18 months, or two years,鈥� said Dr. Thomas Eveland, Associate Professor and Director of Graduate Programs in Business. 鈥淭hese students can take graduate courses as they are completing their undergraduate degree, jump into graduate school the following fall and complete in a year.鈥�
The accelerated structure allows students to enter the workforce sooner while gaining additional academic experience and professional preparation.
鈥淭his allows them to be better prepared for their careers and allows them a new challenge as they are finishing their undergraduate degree,鈥� Eveland said.
Students in the program also receive guidance from staff and faculty throughout the process.
鈥淭he students aren鈥檛 doing this alone,鈥� Eveland said. 鈥淲e give them the support, help them plan their classes, identify their strengths, and ensure they have a strong progression from their undergraduate coursework into graduate school as they plan their careers and enter their field more quickly than many other students.鈥�
For many students, the program provides an opportunity to continue building relationships with faculty and gain valuable insight as they prepare for their careers.
鈥淚t鈥檚 been a great opportunity to get to know a lot of well-connected professors, especially professors who are well connected in the Columbus area as I look to begin my career here,鈥� said Sarah Ochs, a 4+1 student.
Students also appreciate the chance to continue their education at a place where they already feel supported.
鈥淚 thought it was a great opportunity, and why not take the extra year since I enjoy my time at ODU already,鈥� said Meg Saffell, a 4+1 student. 鈥淭he professors are so easy to work with and they just want what is best for you and want you to learn about what you鈥檒l need to succeed in the future.鈥�
4+1 student, Cole Sherburne says the program is helping prepare him for the next step in his career.
鈥淚 truly do believe that this MBA and the 4+1 program is setting me up for a better future,鈥� Sherburne said. 鈥淭he classes are always insightful and fun.鈥�
Ohio Dominican currently offers several 4+1 pathways, including:
- Master of Business Administration (online or evening classes on campus)
- Master of Science in Sport Management (100% online)
- Master of Arts in English (100% online)
To be admitted into the program, students must be current ODU undergraduates who have completed at least 90 credit hours before beginning graduate coursework and maintained a minimum 3.0 cumulative GPA.
By allowing students to begin graduate coursework early and complete their master鈥檚 degree in just one additional year, ODU鈥檚 4+1 Program helps students maximize their time in college while preparing for long-term career success. Current ODU students interested in the program can learn more and apply by clicking here.