Accelerated MS Programs

Get ahead with a streamlined path from your undergraduate degree to a Master of Science—designed exclusively for current UNL students.

Earn Your Master’s in Just One Extra Year

The 4+1 Accelerated Master’s program allows current UNL undergraduate students to begin taking graduate courses during their junior and senior year. With thoughtful planning, students can complete a Master of Science (MS) degree with just one additional year of coursework—saving time and tuition.

Earn your MS in just one extra year

Reduce the total cost of graduate school

Apply up to 12 credit hours to both degrees

Advising and planning built into your undergrad

Explore Our Certificate Programs

Start Planning in Your Junior Year

  1. Sophomore/Junior

    Talk to advisor; begin planning

  2. Senior

    Take up to 12 credits that count toward both degrees

  3. +1 Year

    Finish remaining MS coursework and/or thesis

 

Important Notes:

  • Must apply before graduating with BS
  • Minimum GPA typically required (e.g., 3.0+)
  • Not all undergrad courses qualify for dual credit—plan early!

How to Apply

Frequently Asked Questions

Students

Q: When can I apply?

A: As soon as you reach sophomore standing. Programs may have specific timelines; contact the program's Graduate Chair for information.

Q: Why would a student do this?

A: A student can double-count up to 12 credit hours, making progress toward bachelor's and master's degrees simultaneously.

Q: How is this different from Graduate Credit for Undergraduates?

A: In accelerated master's programs, graduate credit is applied to both the bachelor's and master's degrees. With general Graduate Credit for Undergraduates, the graduate course does not apply to both.

Q: Can any undergraduate student participate?

A: Students must be admitted into one of the listed undergraduate programs, have a 3.0 GPA, be a current and full-time student, and have one or more terms of enrollment remaining before completing the bachelor's degree.

Q: If my catalog year is earlier than the one listed for the accelerated program, can I apply?

A: You can apply if you change your catalog to an accelerated-eligible year. Consult your undergraduate advisor about impacts.

Q: Do I need to meet with the graduate advisor before applying?

A: Consulting the master's program's Graduate Chair (named in program details above) is encouraged, but not a requirement for acceptance.

Q: How do I prepare my application materials.

A: UNL Career Services provide support for undergraduate students applying to graduate school.

Q: Am I billed at the graduate or undergraduate tuition rate?

A: Graduate credits are billed at the graduate rate.

Q: Does my scholarship and/or financial aid cover graduate tuition?

A: Contact Husker Hub 402-472-2030. For additional information https://financialaid.unl.edu/accelerated-programs.

Q: Am I an admitted graduate student?

A: Students are admitted for future entry into the graduate program, becoming graduate students after conferral of the bachelor's degree.

Q: How will the graduate courses appear on my undergraduate degree audit?

A: These graduate courses will satisfy specific undergraduate course requirements, as shown in program-specific tables above.