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What Are the Benefits of an Accelerated Graduate Degree?

A student wearing a graduation cap, shrugging their shoulders and holding their palms up as if asking a question

Are you looking for a pathway to a career that saves time and money, and sets you up for long-term success and fulfillment? An accelerated master’s or doctoral program (3+1, 3+2, 3+3, 4+1, 5+2) may be your answer.

For many, the idea of finishing four years of college can feel overwhelming. Adding two more years or more can seem even more daunting.

Fortunately, accelerated programs allow you to fast track your education. They also provide a clearly defined pathway so you can start your career immediately upon graduation.

You can explore many programs tailored to your career of choice. Some can result in a master’s or even a doctoral degree. These programs include internships, clinicals, and other real-world learning opportunities.

Reasons to Fast Track Your Degree

There are plenty of benefits associated with pursuing an accelerated graduate degree. You can enter the workforce earlier, as a graduate degree will help you qualify for well-paying, in-demand jobs.

Completing your graduate degree more quickly may impress future employers. They will view you as motivated, successful, and hard-working. This gives you an advantage in the job market.

Other major reasons are saving time and money. A shorter time frame means that in the long run, you save significantly on both tuition and living expenses.

Experience an Accelerated Degree Program as a Simmons Student

Two Simmons students walking and talking on a campus path

Simmons University in Boston, Massachusetts, offers accelerated graduate programs in a number of fields. These programs are part of the Simmons Edge, which offers a mix of academic and hands-on experiences.

The Edge offers direct educational pathways for students who know exactly where they want to take their career and new exploratory pathways for those who want time to explore options.

Either journey helps you get a faster return on your educational investment. You’ll save an average of 25% compared to getting separate undergraduate and graduate degrees.

Discover the Simmons Edge


Nanette and Raneem

“I was able to do independent research with [faculty] guidance, but they let me use my creativity and ideas and lead it on my own. Professors are also doing their own research and will often let you join them.”

Read Raneem’s story

— Raneem Emad Amer Mousa ’25, who is pursuing the 3+2 in Engineering



Amoli Vad ’28 standing in a flower garden

“I really enjoy it here in Boston, and Simmons is affiliated with prestigious hospitals in the area. Being able to study exercise science and play division three tennis makes Simmons perfect for me!”

Read Amoli’s story

— Amoli Vad ’28, who is pursuing the Accelerated Program in Health and Exercise Science + Physical Therapy (3+3)


Accelerated Degree Success Stories

Zuzanna Misztela standing by a banner at the NEACSM Conference in 2025

PT Graduate Student Appreciates Accelerated Education

Zuzanna Misztela ’26, ’28DPT is a 3+3 student in the Department of Physical Therapy. We spoke with her about the value of an accelerated education and the supportive atmosphere at Simmons.


Ashley McGrath ’25 ’27DPT wearing a lab jacket on the Simmons quad

3+3 DPT Student on Timing and Transition

Ashley McGrath '25 '27DPT shares her experience in the Accelerated Program in Health and Exercise Science & Physical Therapy (3+3).


Nina Testa '23, '25DPT at Simmons' 2025 Commencement.

Physical Therapist Alumna Finds her Dream Job

Nina Testa ’23, ’25DPT is an outpatient physical therapist at the Northeast Rehabilitation Hospital Network in Haverhill, MA. To honor National Physical Therapy Month (October) 2025, we spoke with her about the value of Simmons’ accelerated education, her recent research, and the University’s inclusive atmosphere.


Alexia Malone Oliver running onto the field during an NFL game

A 3+3 PT Alum on the NFL Field

A graduate of the Simmons Accelerated Program in Health and Exercise Science & Physical Therapy (3+3), Alexia Malone Oliver ’16 ’18DPT is Assistant Athletic Trainer and Physical Therapist for the Denver Broncos. We spoke to her about what it means to treat players on and off the field.


The 8 SURPASs scholars for 2025

Congratulations to the 2025 SURPASs Scholars

Eight undergraduate scholars from disciplines across Simmons have been selected to join the Summer Undergraduate Research Program at Simmons (SURPASs). SURPASs students receive the necessary funding and mentorship to execute an independent research project of their own design.


Emma Soule '26, Anna Gagliastro '26, Eli Ratner, Abby Ferrone '25, Ally Hyde '27

Barbara Lee Fellows Intern at the Massachusetts State House

Simmons recently hosted a celebration for student participants in the Barbara Lee Fellowship, an internship program that pairs Simmons students with female-identifying senators and representatives at the Massachusetts State House.


Madd Witaconist ’25

Exploring a Global Perspective on Policy Work

Madd Witaconis ’25 discusses the Political Science and Public Policy 3+1 program, and reflects on interning abroad, and finding community at Simmons.


Aislinn Doherty ’25

Practicing Social Justice via Arts, Archives, and Community

Aislinn Doherty ’25 reflects on expanding her leadership skills as a Bonner Leader, and making it her mission to get involved with as many organizations and opportunities as possible while at Simmons.


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Laura Pedulli