Accelerated Programs
We offer accelerated sequences for:
- Food, Nutrition, and Dietetics
- Fashion, Design, and Merchandising
- Human Development and Family Science
- Interior Design
NOTE: The accelerated master's programs are for ISU students only. Graduate students who already have a bachelor's degree are not eligible for these programs.
Accelerated master’s degree programs are designed to enhance the opportunities and advanced training for Illinois State's most talented undergraduates. Students complete their bachelor's degree and then subsequently their master's degree with approximately one additional year of study.
Admission to accelerated programs is competitive and depends on a positive review of an internal transfer application by the program’s admissions committee. Accordingly, the admission requirements for these programs are higher than those required if the master’s degree were pursued entirely after the receipt of the bachelor’s degree.
When to Apply
Apply during your junior year and enter the program your senior year.
Admission Requirements
You must remain in good standing and apply to Illinois State's graduate school during your senior year. Minimum requirements include:
- Declared undergraduate major (FDM, FND, HDFS, or ID within the Department of FCS)
- A minimum cumulative GPA of 3.20 for all course work at ISU
- Apply through an internal transfer application 3 semesters prior to graduation (the semester prior to senior year). Internal transfer applications into the Accelerated Sequence are due Sept 21, a year prior for December graduates, and February 21, a year prior for May graduates.
Credit Hours
Once admitted, you'll take a minimum of three and a maximum of 12 credits at the graduate level that will count towards both your undergraduate and graduate degrees.