The College in 3 project is working with several colleges to try out a new program where students can save a year in earning their Bachelor’s degree.
What would a three-year Bachelor’s program look like?
It’s too soon to say since the program is still being discussed with several institutions, but the ultimate goal is to provide students with an option to graduate in less time while still gaining the skills they need.
The key to designing this program is to find a way to make sure students still meet their requirements without overloading their course load leading to burnout. This will allow students to save time and money on their Bachelor’s degree, but still, have the capacity to partake in the activities and student life their campus offers.
As they begin to test out these programs at a handful of institutions, it’s likely that only a handful of majors/programs will be offered as a three-year option.
What colleges are starting out the program?
Right now, there are several colleges and universities aiming to launch a pilot program for students interested in earning a three-year degree. The institutions reported at this time are:
- American Public University System
- Indiana University of Pennsylvania
- Merrimack College
- New England College
- Northwood University
- Portland State University
- Slippery Rock University
- University of Minnesota at Rochester
- University of North Texas
- University of Texas Rio Grande Valley
- University of Wisconsin at Oshkosh
- Utica College
Why now?
As the cost of higher education continues to rise, many students and families are looking for ways to offset the cost of a college education. Following the COVD-19 pandemic, many students were left questioning the value of a college education. This resulted in a big drop in enrollment across many U.S. colleges and universities.
It makes sense that these institutions would push toward new ways to make college seem practical and affordable— hence the appeal of the three-year Bachelor’s program, especially for students who are eager to cut debt and jump into the workforce.
When will it start?
It’s still too soon to say. For now, these colleges are in discussion and exploring options for how to make a three-year Bachelor’s program viable. Once the program is implemented at these pilot colleges, it’s likely that necessary changes will be made and other schools may choose to follow suit.
Our forecast: 💡🎓
While the College in 3 program is still in its early stages, this is a substantial step toward making a three-year Bachelor’s degree a viable option. Depending on your circumstances and career goals, it might be worth keeping an eye out for these pilot schools and how the program continues to unfold.
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