Accelerated Programs
Colorado State University
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The International Studies Three-Year Accelerated Degree Program
What are Accelerated Programs?
Colorado State University is excited to provide programs for students to graduate by the end of their third spring or summer term for select programs of study. Accelerated Programs typically include 15-16 credits each fall and spring semester for three years, plus 6-9 credits each summer. Students who enter CSU with prior credit (AP, IB, transfer, etc.) may use applicable courses to further accelerate their graduation. Accelerated Programs are available to new degree-seeking CSU students beginning Fall 2020. Learn more about all of the Accelerated Programs offered here.
What makes the International Studies Accelerated Program unique?
Fun fact: Since 2014, 65 percent of CSU International Studies majors have graduated in under four years! The flexibility of the International Studies Program helps to explain this high number. Unlike most Accelerated Programs, International Studies is an interdisciplinary major, which means that it allows students to explore a range of subjects and disciplines. As an International Studies Accelerated Degree major, you will take courses in Anthropology, Geography, Political Science, Economics, History, a Foreign Language, and other fields. In addition, our flexible curriculum includes electives, which can be counted toward a minor, and it facilitates critical experiences such as study abroad and internships, even for students graduating on an accelerated timeline.
Click the buttons below to view two standard International Studies accelerated degree options. The Office of Admissions and your Academic Success Coordinator (ASC) will help you create a custom plan based on your needs and goals.
How to apply
Step 1: Meet with your Academic Success Coordinator to discuss whether an accelerated program is right for you. Interested students should also visit with staff in the Office of Financial Aid for additional options and resources.
Step 2: To declare your intent, complete the Accelerated Programs Agreement provided by your advisor.
The benefits of an Accelerated Program
Students who graduate in 3 or 3 ½ years will need to invest in summer tuition, fees, and related expenses, but may reduce their overall cost of attendance. The opportunity to enter a graduate or professional degree program or begin earning a professional salary earlier may enhance lifetime earnings. Note that International Studies also offers an Accelerated (4+1) Masters Program with the Masters of Public Policy Administration (MPPA).
While pursuing Accelerated Programs has many benefits, there are also items to consider. For instance, you may not have the opportunity to explore majors and add additional programs of study such as minors or second majors. If you change your major, an accelerated path may no longer work for you. If at any time you decide to opt out of an Accelerated Program, you should meet with your advisor to discuss taking more time for degree completion, and, if using financial aid, contact the Office of Financial Aid.
