Incoming freshmen can now plan out their college education in even quicker time. Oakland University recently launched the Degree in Three program, which is set to launch this fall.

Degree in Three is designed for students looking for a fast-track to complete their bachelor’s degree. The program offers 19 majors, mostly through the College of Arts and Sciences, where students can earn their degree in three years. Some of the available majors include biology, economics, communications and political science.

“The idea here is to give students a quicker head start on their higher education or post- graduate work, and the way they do that is by taking courses throughout the year,” Dave Groves, assistant director of media relations, said.

With this program, students will be taking courses through all fall, winter, spring and summer semesters. As a member of the program, a student can enjoy priority registration to ensure their registration for required courses. The program also provides cost-cutting benefits for both commuting students as well as students who live on campus.

“If you’re a student who is living on campus, then this saves you a year’s worth of room and board. If you’re a student who is commuting, then it’s a years worth of commuting cost. Really the bigger advantage is just timeliness,” Groves said.

OU has also ensured that students who enroll in the program and receive financial aid will be able to use their financial aid for all semesters, including spring and summer semesters.

Students who have earned college credits from advanced placements courses, international baccalaureate or dual enrollment can apply those credits towards their degree, possibly earning their degree in less then three years.

The program is targeted at incoming students. Participants must enter the program during their first semester.  Students must also have at least a 3.6 high school GPA or higher, as well as a composite ACT score of 25 or higher.

“Because this is academically rigorous, the students need to be well accustomed. Basically right when they come to the university, they need to step in with both feet. Students who are closer to average, or who need more time study, this is not going to be an ideal program for them,” Groves said.

Admissions and marketing directors are currently communicating with high school guidance counselors and parent groups about Degree in Three.

“I think that the Degree in Three program is an excellent way for people to finish their college education if they just want to get college over with … or miss any opportunities that may immediately come in three years instead of four,” Utica High School senior Heather Rochon said.

If incoming students meet the criteria for the program, they will be considered for admission to the program, and will be set to receive information where they can decide if they would like to apply. An application deadline for the fall is yet to be determined.

Colleges and universities around the country are looking into offering programs similar to Degree in Three to students.

“We haven’t been able to get a real clear picture on who’s offering it and who’s not, but it’s limited … this is a growing trend across the country. It’s still not common by any means, but more and more colleges are looking at offering this program,” Groves said.

More information on the Degree in Three program and application opportunities can be seen on the Degree in Three website at www.oakland.edu/degreeinthree