4+1 Programs

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A student working in an engineering lab.

UM-Dearborn’s 4+1 Programs are designed for ambitious undergraduate students who want to earn both a bachelor’s and a master’s degree in less time, with significant cost savings. This accelerated path allows you to double-count credits toward both degrees, giving you a competitive edge in today’s fast-paced job market.

Key Benefits

Time Efficiency: Complete your master’s degree in just one additional year after finishing your bachelor’s degree. By double-counting 9-16 credits (varies by program), you can fulfill master’s requirements while still completing your undergraduate studies.
Cost Savings: Save on tuition by taking up to 16 graduate level credits during your undergraduate career, reducing the total number of credits you need to earn separately for the master’s degree.
Competitive Edge: A master’s degree enhances your qualifications and makes you stand out to employers. With advanced knowledge and specialized skills, you’ll be in a stronger position to land higher-paying jobs and climb the career ladder faster.

Programs that require specific undergraduate major(s)

The programs listed below accept specific undergraduate majors to pair with the graduate program to earn both degrees in five years.

Programs that accept all majors

The programs listed below accept any undergraduate major to be paired with the graduate program to earn both degrees in five years.

Partnership with UM-Ann Arbor

An undergraduate degree in Health and Human Services at UM-Dearborn can pair with a Masters in Social Work (MSW) at UM-Ann Arbor to earn both degrees in five years.

Please note: the graduate application process for this program is unique and requires all materials to be sent to Ann Arbor by February 1 of your junior year. Follow the guidelines described within its detailed program page.

Human Services and Social Work

Overview

Applying to the 4+1/Accelerated option is a two-stage process on the Dearborn campus. The HHS-BS/MSW follows different guidelines and deadlines.

First Stage

Once you have completed 60 undergraduate credits and are approved to begin a 4+1 program, you may begin taking graduate-level courses that will double-count toward both your bachelor’s and master’s degree requirements. This marks the beginning of your participation in the accelerated option.

Second Stage

In your final term as an undergraduate, you must apply to transition into graduate status. This application is necessary for you to continue your graduate studies and officially be recognized as a graduate student after you complete your bachelor’s degree.

Final deadline: two weeks before the start of classes.

Applying to Begin 4+1 Option (First Stage)

Submit a Stage 1 application to begin an accelerated/4+1 master’s option. Both undergraduate and graduate advisors will sign off on your planned graduate coursework to take as an undergraduate student to double-count towards your bachelor’s and master’s degree requirements.

Recommended deadlines:

Summer/Fall: March 1
Winter: October 1

Final deadline: two weeks before the start of classes.

If admitted, coordinate with your advisor for any overrides needed for your approved graduate coursework.

Applying to Continue Studies as Graduate Student (Second Stage)

At the beginning of your final term as an undergraduate student, you’ll submit a Stage 2 application to continue your graduate studies.