Massachusetts Tries 3‑Year College Degrees

Innovative Three-Year Bachelor’s Degree Pilot Program Approved

In March, the Board of Higher Education allowed schools to offer a three-year bachelor’s degree. This move aims to address concerns over rising tuition costs and long-term student debt.

How It Works

• Fewer Required Credits: Reduces the time to graduation, allowing students to enter the workforce sooner.
• Pilot Programs: Colleges can now seek approval to run experimental programs.

Approval Process

• Full Permission: If a school’s proposal meets all criteria.
• Limited Approval: If the program shows potential but needs adjustments.
• Shut Down: If the trial period does not meet expectations.

The board emphasizes student protection and real job market value.

States Leading the Way

• Massachusetts joins Indiana and Utah in offering three-year degree options.
• Colleges like Merrimack, Springfield, and Lasell are eager to participate.

Eligibility Criteria

• Schools with recent accreditation issues or financial investigations will be rejected.
• The current rule requires 120 credits, but the new pilot could lower this number.

Governor’s Vision

The governor highlighted Massachusetts’ reputation for innovation and urged a system that is cheaper and more supportive of student success.