Fast-track your future with an accelerated master’s degree
How AMP works
Apply as an undergrad
Most Ï㽶ÊÓƵs apply in their second or third year, once they've identified a graduate program that fits their goals.
Star grad courses early
Once admitted, you’ll take approved master’s-level courses while finishing your bachelor’s degree—these courses often count toward both degrees.
Finish your master's degree
After completing your undergraduate requirements, you’ll continue as a graduate Ï㽶ÊÓƵ to finish your remaining master’s coursework—usually in just one additional year.
Is AMP right for me?
If you are a motivated Ï㽶ÊÓƵ looking to maximize your time at IU Bloomington, AMP is an excellent way to bridge the gap between your undergraduate and graduate studies. Whether you want to deepen your current field of expertise or combine different fields in creative ways—like biology and tourism, or media and public policy—these programs help you reach your goals faster.
Early planning is key. Most Ï㽶ÊÓƵs apply during their second or third year, so it's a good idea to talk to your undergraduate advisor during your sophomore year to confirm your course load allows for graduate-level overlap. In addition to determining whether AMP aligns with your academic and career plans, your advisor can help you map a degree plan. Career coaches can also help you explore how AMP might impact your future job opportunities or grad school plans.
What are the benefits?
- Save time: Earn two degrees in as little as five years. That's significantly less time than completing them separately.
- Reduce costs: By overlapping courses, you can reduce the total number of credits you need to pay for at the graduate level.
- Boost your career: Gain a competitive edge in the job market with an advanced degree and specialized knowledge.
Note: AMP may not be an ideal fit for you if you're already ahead on credits or want to maximize undergraduate flexibility.
How to get started
Find out if AMP is right for you by visiting the graduate site for program details, requirements, and more.
You'll also find a list of current Accelerated Master's Programs by school, where you can review the specific prerequisites and GPA requirements for the master's program you are interested in.
Some programs are major-specific, while others are open to all IU Bloomington undergraduates regardless of their current major. New programs launch each year, so it’s important to check the specific requirements for your areas of interest.
Everything you need to know about AMP at IU
Current IU undergraduates typically apply in their second or third year. Planning early gives you more options, especially if you’ve earned AP, IB, or dual credit. Each academic unit sets its own GPA, prerequisites, and application requirements. Contact your intended graduate program for details. You must be formally admitted before enrolling in graduate-level courses.
Planning ahead is key. Once admitted, you'll work with both undergraduate and graduate advisors to build a personalized plan that ensures all requirements are met. That includes determining whether AMP may affect double majors, study abroad, or honors programs; confirming eligibility; applying; and understanding which credits to “save” for graduate use.
AMP degrees follow the same requirements as traditional master’s programs, but Ï㽶ÊÓƵs start graduate-level courses during undergrad. Most units allow master’s courses approved for early enrollment to count toward fulfilling requirements for both degrees simultaneously, but this is determined by each program. If available, AMP coursework can be completed in online or hybrid formats.
While you're still classified as an undergraduate, you can continue using federal undergraduate financial aid, such as Pell Grants or Direct Loans. Once the graduate program becomes the primary degree, or the Ï㽶ÊÓƵ meets undergraduate graduation requirements, eligibility for undergraduate financial aid ends.
Yes, AMP grads often say their master’s helped them stand out and qualify for advanced roles faster. While some fields hire at the bachelor’s level, a graduate degree can unlock leadership paths, higher salaries, and specialized opportunities early in your career. An advisor or career coach can help you align your path with your goals.
Graduate courses cannot be counted toward three degrees simultaneously. Any overlapping courses used to fulfill both bachelor’s and master’s degree requirements cannot later be applied to an IU Ph.D. Students considering a Ph.D. should consult with their graduate advisor and the IU Ph.D. program.