Program Overview

Introduction to the Fast Track Program

The Harry W. Bass Jr. School of Arts, Humanities, and Technology Fast Track Program offers a unique opportunity for qualified undergraduates to begin work on a master's degree before graduation. This program allows seniors to take up to 15 credit hours of approved graduate courses in the school during their senior year, which can be applied to their undergraduate degree plans.

Eligibility and Admission Requirements

To qualify for admission to the Fast Track program, seniors must meet specific requirements:

• Senior standing at the end of the Spring term (i.e., within 30 hours of graduation)
• At minimum, 36 hours of the university core completed
• Normally, students will have completed:
  • At least 12 hours of upper-division major requirements completed or in-progress
  • GPA of 3.5 in the major

Application Process

To apply, students will need to submit the Bass School Fast Track Application with supporting documents:

• Statement of Purpose (approximately 500 words) that addresses preparation and motivation for graduate study, specific research interests, and future professional goals
• Two letters of recommendation from faculty from the Harry W. Bass Jr. School of Arts, Humanities, and Technology
• Unofficial Transcript
• Program-Specific Materials:
  • For MA AHST, include one sample of academic writing in PDF format (not exceeding 12 MB)
  • For MA VPA, include a link to a portfolio in the Statement of Purpose

Enrollment in Graduate Courses

After being admitted into the Bass School Fast Track program, students will meet with a graduate advisor to discuss the graduate degree plan and suggest courses for the first semester. Students will then complete the Bass School Graduate Course Registration Form.

Matriculation into the MA Program

Fast Track students who maintain a 3.5 GPA overall and in the major and earn at least a B in all Fast Track courses will receive automatic admission into the MA programs upon graduation of their undergraduate degree. The Registrar's Office will open the student's graduate matriculation when they apply for graduation with their Undergraduate Program.

Benefits of the Fast Track Program

The Fast Track program is ideal for undergraduate students who want to get a head start on graduate school while finishing their undergraduate degree. Benefits include:

• The opportunity to try out graduate school before committing fully
• Smaller, more interactive graduate classes
• Taking graduate courses at the undergraduate tuition rate
• The potential to earn both a bachelor's and a master's degree in five years

Academic Programs and Resources

The Harry W. Bass Jr. School of Arts, Humanities, and Technology offers a range of academic programs, including degrees, minors, and certificates. Students have access to various resources, such as graduate student writing resources, creative spaces, and centers, labs, and studios.