Contact: Checky Herrington

STARKVILLE, Miss.—Academically motivated students are encouraged to aspire higher as registration for spring classes gets underway at Mississippi State University.

With MSU’s Thrive in Five initiative, scholars can earn both a bachelor’s and master’s degree concurrently in only five years. And by completing the required course load in less than the typical six years, they can enter the workforce and start earning sooner.

“Thrive in Five is designed to put motivated students on a fast track to success,” said Peter Ryan, executive vice provost and Graduate School dean. “Equipped with two degrees, participants are seen by potential employers as candidates who possess the critical thinking skills valued today in the global marketplace more than ever.”

Undergraduate students who have completed at least 60 hours of coursework and have at least a 3.25 GPA may begin the process of earning their bachelor’s and master’s degrees at an accelerated pace by meeting with their program advisor to map out the appropriate coursework. Requirements may vary depending on the program students choose.

“This option is perfect for students with strong academic records seeking to earn academic credentials that place them at the head of the pack in a competitive job market,” said Ryan.

For the spring 2022 semester, the university is offering more than 30 Thrive in Five degrees, which can be viewed at https://www.msstate.edu/thriveinfive.

For more information, contact MSU’s Office of the Graduate School at 662-325-7400 or email gradapps@grad.msstate.edu.

MSU is Mississippi’s leading university, available online at www.msstate.edu.