Degree in 3

Clark Degree in 3

A pathway to a high-value bachelor’s degree in less time

The Clark Degree in 3 provides the same high-quality, comprehensive, and rigorous academic experience while offering a pathway to complete your studies within three years — allowing you to begin your career, enroll in graduate studies, or pursue other passions on a compressed timeline. For highly motivated students who are interested in a shorter pathway to earning a bachelor’s degree, Clark’s Degree in 3 is an option to consider.

Three-year degree guidelines

Clark’s Degree in 3 is available to any undergraduate student who matriculates into Clark with at least four and up to eight units of advanced placement or advanced standing credits. Advanced standing credits could include courses that transfer in from another college or university with approval from Clark’s Academic Advising Center.

Summer and spring (May) terms can be used to complete remaining Clark Core and major requirements, as can course overloads taken during fall and spring semesters.

Pursuing a compressed degree is a significant commitment, so students are encouraged to reach out to the Academic Advising Center to explore the benefits and challenges of accelerating your studies.

Advising support to ensure your success

A dedicated team of Degree in 3 advisors will partner with interested students to begin to plan your individualized program even before your first official day at Clark. Then, with touchpoints throughout the academic year, your Degree in 3 advisors will help you manage workloads, navigate financial assistance and tuition, assess various options for earning credits, and ensure you have a fulfilling overall Clark Experience. Working with your advisor, you can opt out of a Degree in 3 at any time if you decide a four-year degree is a better option for you.

students study field methods with Professor Kulakowski

Majors

Choose from nearly 40 majors that combine rigorous education with effective practice — connecting classroom learning with action through world and workplace experiences.

Explore programs

Accelerated master’s

Clark’s unique 3+1 pathways

For Degree in 3 students with at least 24 Clark academic units, two pathways are available to accelerate your graduate studies.

Three-year bachelor’s + one-year master’s (3+1)

Students complete a B.A. or B.S. and M.A. or M.S. in four years, with the fourth year’s tuition substantially reduced or free depending upon your undergraduate GPA.

Three-year bachelor’s + one-year professional development + one-year master’s (3+1+1)

Students complete a B.A. or B.S. in three years, followed by a professional development year before completing a Clark M.A. or M.S. degree. Like the 3+1 pathway, tuition for graduate studies in the fifth year is substantially reduced or at no cost at all. This is a terrific option for students who would like the flexibility to pursue an internship, a research fellowship, global learning or another form of professional development before completing graduate degree studies, all within five years. During the professional development year, students remain connected to Clark and your academic pursuits through reflection checkpoints and sustained advising.

Frequently asked questions

Is there a cost saving in pursuing a three-year bachelor’s degree?

Yes, students can save as much as 20%. Overall savings depends upon several factors including the amount of pre-matriculated (i.e. advanced placement or transfer) credits you bring to Clark and opportunities to enroll in summer coursework. Your Degree in 3 advisor can help you assess the best options based on your goals and preferences.

Do transfer credits count toward a Degree in 3?

Yes. However, three-credit courses taken elsewhere will transfer into Clark as .75 units and you may need to make up missing credits, depending upon the course requirements for your major.

Can I switch to a four-year degree from Degree in 3?

Yes. You can shift to a four-year degree at any time, with the guidance of your Degree in 3 advisor.

Which graduate programs are eligible for the 3+1 and 3+1+1 pathways?

Students on a 3+1 pathway can work toward earning the same graduate degrees that are eligible for Clark’s 4+1 Accelerated Master’s Degree option.

Students on a 3+1+1 pathway can work toward earning graduate degrees in the School of Business, School of Professional Studies, or School of Climate, Environment, and Society.