Accelerated Master's programs
Accelerated programs let you earn a master’s degree faster—often in just one year instead of the usual two. By taking graduate-level courses during your senior year that count for both your bachelor’s and master’s degrees, you can complete both degrees in as little as five years.*
Students accepted into the Accelerated Master's program may apply up to 6 credits of 400-level coursework and 6 credits of 500-level coursework as “shared” courses, allowing the student to complete both degrees more quickly.
*Completion time may vary by student and by program, so be sure to check in with a Sanford Advising team member for confirmation. Always consult with financial aid to ensure eligibility.
BS in Sociology + MA in Sociology
The Bachelor of Science (BS) program in sociology offers courses on contemporary social phenomena such as crime, population trends, and technology, as well as on the exploration of social institutions such as family, health, sports, law, and the workplace. Students develop proficiency in written communication, statistical analysis, and research methodology.
The accelerated Master’s program allows students to share up to 12 credit hours between their undergraduate and graduate degree requirements. In coordination with the SSFD Accelerated Master’s contacts, students select six credit hours of 400-level major coursework and six credit hours of graduate-level coursework that will apply to both programs.
Eligibility
To be eligible for admission to the Sociology Accelerated Master's program, a student must:
- have earned at least 75 hours toward the undergraduate degree at the time of application; 90 hours are needed to begin taking graduate courses
- have a minimum 3.0 GPA at the time of application, and maintain a minimum 3.0 undergraduate GPA to remain in the accelerated program
- be on track to graduate with the undergraduate degree within two semesters after being accepted into the program (one calendar year after the acceptance date)
Application Process
Complete the application online.
Electronic application will include:
- Personal statement (1 page) describing your professional goals and why you are interested in the Accelerated Master's program.
- Resume
- Letter of Recommendation: Please enter an email address for someone who can provide you with a professional letter of recommendation. *This letter should be from someone such as an instructor or employer; it should not be from a friend or relative.
Helpful links
BS in Family & Human Development + MS in Family and Human Development
Earning a bachelor’s degree in Family and Human Development involves studying the stages of human development throughout the lifespan and gaining a deep understanding of the complex dynamics of human relationships in families, workplaces and communities. Students also become proficient in written communication, research methodology and data analysis.
Students in the Master’s program in Family and Human Development are equipped with skills applicable to a broad range of positions in human services. They gain an advanced understanding of the various issues facing children, youth and families, and learn how to be practitioners who can address these needs and promote healthy relationships.
The accelerated Master’s program allows students to share up to 12 credit hours between their undergraduate and graduate degree requirements. In coordination with the SSFD Accelerated Master’s contacts, students select six credit hours of 400-level major coursework and six credit hours of graduate-level coursework that will apply to both programs.
Eligibility
To be eligible for admission to the Sociology Accelerated Master's program, a student must:
- have earned at least 75 hours toward the undergraduate degree at the time of application; 90 hours are needed to begin taking graduate courses
- have a minimum 3.0 GPA at the time of application, and maintain a minimum 3.0 undergraduate GPA to remain in the accelerated program
- be on track to graduate with the undergraduate degree within two semesters after being accepted into the program (one calendar year after the acceptance date)
Application Process
Complete the application online.
Electronic application will include:
- Personal statement (1 page) describing your professional goals and why you are interested in the Accelerated Master's program.
- Resume
- Letter of Recommendation: Please enter an email address for someone who can provide you with a professional letter of recommendation. *This letter should be from someone such as an instructor or employer; it should not be from a friend or relative.
Helpful links