4+1: Bachelor's + Master of Science Degree Program

Duke undergraduates: Earn bachelor's and master’s degrees in just 5 years

Who is eligible

For this 4+1:Bachelors+Master of Science (MS) program, the bachelor’s degree can be from any of the eight participating academic departments in the Duke University Program in Materials Science and Engineering:

How it Works

It requires planning. You work with your advisor and directors of undergraduate and graduate studies to develop a personal academic plan—four years as an undergraduate and one year of graduate study.

Up to four graduate courses are taken during your undergraduate study. The courses are not used to fulfill any undergraduate degree requirements (including a minor or certificate) and are transferred to your graduate transcript.

The transfer of credits requires students to receive a “B” or better. Only credit hours transfer; grades earned will not be used to calculate graduate GPA.

As you prepare to graduate from your bachelor's program, you apply to the University Program in Materials Science and Engineering's Master of Science degree program. During the following year, you complete your graduate studies.

When to Apply

• Apply for spring admission to our MS program during the fall semester of your senior year
• The application deadline is October 1

Sample Curricula

It is essential to follow a recommended curriculum to complete your MS degree within one year of your bachelor’s.

Two options are shown in this chart:

Learn more

Please contact the Director of Graduate Studies for the University Program in Materials Science and Engineering: