Are Colleges Going to Switch to Three-Year Degrees?

College students may soon have a faster route to graduation.

A growing number of schools across the country are rolling out three-year bachelor’s degree programs. This would give students a chance to earn a diploma quicker and save them a lot of money along the way. (But that would mean less partying . . . is this a risk college kids will want to take?)

Instead of the traditional 120 credit hours spread across four years, some of these programs require about 90 credits. That would mean students can enter the workforce sooner, spend less on tuition and living expenses, and avoid piling up as much debt.

The idea is gaining momentum. At least 70 schools have either launched three-year degree programs or are actively considering them.

And states are getting involved, too. Texas Governor Greg Abbott is trying to create a framework for three-year degrees. But not everyone is sold on the idea. Critics worry about whether graduate schools and employers will fully embrace the shorter degrees.

(Washington Post / Alt)