4+1 Programs

Accelerated 4+1 – Begin taking graduate classes in your senior year!

Depending on their major, UMass Amherst students may be able to take up to 12 graduate credits (4 courses) from one of the specialized master’s programs during their senior year. Depending on the program, students may be eligible to double count up to 6 credits towards their undergraduate and graduate degree. The accelerated 4+1 allows students to complete their undergraduate degree and a specialized master's degree in 5 years or less.

Undergraduate students who wish to accelerate their 4+1 program should apply to one of the Isenberg specialized master’s programs in their junior year or early in their senior year.

Learn more about your options, next steps, and how to apply here.

Benefits of the accelerated 4+1 option:

• Efficiency: Complete your undergraduate and graduate degree in less than 5 years.
• Cost savings: Double count up to 6 credits toward your undergraduate and graduate degrees.
• Internship opportunities: Start taking graduate courses early and secure an internship in the summer after you complete your undergraduate degree.
• Career opportunities: Be better prepared to interview for jobs in the fall when you officially start your master's program.

Accelerated program notes

• MS in Accounting students are not eligible for double counting of credits.
• Non-finance undergraduates are not able to accelerate the MF program by taking classes during senior year.
• Graduate tuition rates will apply for all graduate level courses taken during the senior year. Visit the individual program tuition and aid pages for more information.

Non-Accelerated 4+1 – Finish your undergraduate degree and begin your master’s degree soon after!

For any undergraduate student who is close to graduating or have graduated, you are eligible to apply for a traditional specialized master’s program. You can contact a Graduate Programs Recruitment Specialist for more information or refer to the regular admissions information for that program: Master of Science in Accounting Transitions Track (for non-accounting majors), Master of Science in Accounting Professional Track (for accounting majors), Master of Science in Business Analytics, or Master of Finance.

For anyone seeking an advanced specialized master’s degree, or you are a current undergraduate student who is close to graduating or have graduated, you are eligible to apply for a traditional specialized master’s program and complete your master’s degree in one year. You can contact a Graduate Programs Recruitment Specialist for more information or refer to the regular admissions information for that program: Master of Science in Accounting Transitions Track (for non-accounting majors), Master of Science in Accounting Professional Track (for accounting majors), Master of Science in Business Analytics, or Master of Finance.