A One-of-a-Kind Degree Program

Become a Kiest-Morgan Scholar and complete your bachelor’s degree in three years and a master’s degree in one more year.

Ten years ago, when Thomas College launched its three-year bachelor’s degree program within the H. Allen Ryan School of Business, the Kiest-Morgan Scholar program was one of the first programs of its kind in the country. Since then, Thomas College has expanded the three-year option to nearly all academic programs and added a +1 (one year) graduate program offering.

Thomas is still one of only a handful of institutions in the country with this degree program and the only one of its kind in Maine.

“This program works, which tells us that the paradigm in higher education has shifted, and we at Thomas College realized this perhaps earlier than most. The traditional model was not the best option for students, and we recognized that,” said the Provost.

“We attract high-achieving students from under served backgrounds who benefit from this more affordable program. Our students have the intellectual capacity and benefit from the support networks that Thomas does so well. This program is more affordable, plus gets students to their careers quicker with less debt and more long-term earning potential.”

Kaitlyn Rourke, Kiest Morgan Scholar
Kaitlyn Rourke ’18, M.B.A. ’19

“The three plus one program saved me well over $30,000 on my schooling compared to if I had received a bachelor’s and master’s degree in six years,” said Senior Operational Trainer at United Healthcare Kaitlyn Rourke ’18, M.B.A. ’19.

“This program was a much better value-added program when compared to other schools’ offerings while providing me with an academic challenge.”

How the 3+1 Program Works

Nearly all Thomas College undergraduate degree programs can be completed in three years, enabling students to pursue one of our flexible and innovative master’s degrees in their fourth year. Biology and education programs are exempt from the 3+1 program.

Once at Thomas College, Kiest-Morgan Scholars will complete six undergraduate courses each fall and spring semester. Scholars may be required to complete additional coursework outside of the traditional semester model to complete the standard four-year undergraduate program in three.

For the fourth year, eligible students can seek graduate degrees in a range of in-demand fields. While enrolled as a full-time graduate student, they benefit from continued access to campus life and can remain involved in clubs, recreation, and varsity athletics.

36%

of Undergraduate Students Enroll
in the 3-Year Option

Scholar Selection

Kiest-Morgan Scholars are students who demonstrate high potential for academic achievement. Entering first-year students who have a minimum GPA of 3.4 and a record of rigorous coursework will be identified as candidates for the 3+1 Program during the selection process.

If you’re interested in our 3+1 Program, be sure to indicate this when completing your application.

Questions?

Contact Admissions at [email protected] or 207-859-1101 to discuss your eligibility and learn more about how Thomas College makes it possible to achieve your professional goals faster.

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