Combined Programs allow students to complete a bachelor’s degree at Mines and combine it with a master’s degree program to complete both in as little as 5 years. Or, take a look how you can combine and finish your PhD, too.

How It Works

CREDITS 

are completed during bachelor’s coursework and are applied towards both degree requirements.

ADDITIONAL CREDITS

toward a graduate degree can be completed while still completing a bachelor’s degree.

REMAINING CREDITS

completed during the 5th year to complete the master’s degree requirements.

CREDIT MASTERS DEGREE AWARDED

*some programs require additional credits

CREDITS: 6 credits (typically 2 courses) can be applied toward both the bachelor’s and master’s degree.

ADDITIONAL CREDITS: Additional graduate level courses, up to 12 credits, can be completed prior to completing a bachelor’s degree. The amount of credits completed will determine how many remain for the 5th year. 

REMAINING CREDITS: Based on how many credits were completed prior to completion of a bachelor’s degree, the remaining credits to be awarded a master’s degree are calculated to be taken during the 5th year. 

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Additional Benefits To Combine

  • No application fee
  • No required GRE scores
  • No required letters of recommendation
  • No commitment, you can combine and decide to continue as a graduate student later.

When To Start

You can plan ahead and work with your desired graduate program department’s faculty and staff to make sure you are taking the right courses while completing your undergraduate coursework.

However, you must meet the requirements below to start the application process.

To Apply To Be Combined:

  • You must be a current Mines student
  • You won’t see the application in your trailhead until you have completed at least 60 credit hours towards your undergraduate degree. This can include credit hours you brought in, including AP/IB and concurrent.
  • You must apply with more than a semester prior to graduating since you need enough time to take the 6 double counted credits.

Next Steps

  • Pick your program. Decide which doctoral or masters program is for you.  >view all programs
  • Plan ahead. Start talking to the department and program contact so that you can plan your courses and timeline.
  • Determine application deadline. Deadlines can vary by program and term. Many programs also have a priority app deadline to ensure your spot and success.  >view deadlines
  • Apply. After you complete 60 credit hours, apply in your trailhead using the ‘jumpstart your app’ form. Note, the form will not appear until 60 undergraduate hours have been completed.
  • Submit your materials. Check your program to find out what materials are required to complete your application file. Your file will not be reviewed until all materials have been submitted.
  • Complete your remaining bachelor’s courses with your grad level courses. This will most likely be in your final semester. You will incorporate the 6 graduate level credits into your semester schedule.

YOU ARE READY. Your student account stays active. Seamlessly continue on to your graduate program without needing to reapply.

IT’S WORTH IT.

There is more to consider when you combine to be a graduate student. Save time. Save Money. And increase your outcomes.

Average starting salary for graduate students

Elevate Your Career.

Mines graduate students enter the workforce with the highest of standards of integrity and skill, assuming top positions in industry, government, and academia.

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positive outcome for MS graduates

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positive outcomes for PhD graduates

  • When you combine, you earn a graduate degree in a field that complements your undergraduate major.
  • A graduate degree unlocks the next level of career positions.
  • A graduate degree will strengthen your admissions application for a doctoral program.

Consider This.

As you transition into a graduate program, you will have access to a range of other options and flexibilty.

Online or On Campus. Flexible Formats That Fit.

Funding. Opportunities including fellowships, traineeships, scholarships, or teaching and research assistanships.

Western Regional Graduate Program. Students in qualifying states may be eligible for the Western Regional Graduate Program (WRGP) and could receive a discounted, non-resident tuition rate if they are part of a qualifying academic program at Mines.

More About Grad Programs At Mines.

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Flexibility in formats that fit your life. 

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