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Stockbridge School
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Deciding between a two- and four-year program

Many prospective students are unsure whether a two- or four-year program is the best option for them. Here are some things to consider.

  1. Apply to both programs.

    First and most importantly, apply to both programs. The two- and four-year programs share the same application, and applying to both is as easy as checking off an additional box on the form. It doesn't cost any more and it gives you more options, as well as time to consider those options. Get an application or apply online.

  2. Understand the similarities.

    Both programs are taught by the same exceptional faculty and share the same facilities. Both two- and four-year students enjoy all the advantages of being members of the larger UMass community and can be involved in a broad range of activities, including clubs, intramural sports and residential activities. Learn more about campus life and the Amherst area.

  3. Know your options for starting in Stockbridge (two-year program) and then transferring to a four-year program.

    Stockbridge students can continue on to earn a bachelor's degree through the university's four-year program. Over forty percent of our students choose this path. Students apply in their second year and if admitted, all of their course credits transfer. Most students are able to complete the four-year program in an additional two to three years. This option gives entering students several key advantages:

    • only a two-year commitment up front
    • a degree after two years with the widely respected Stockbridge name
    • the option after two years to either start a career or continue on to complete a four-year program
    • the potential to complete two degrees in four to five years

    However, it's important to also understand the trade-offs:

    • total time in school is often five years
    • demanding curriculum, especially in the first semester
    • very limited flexibility in choosing classes
    • little room to explore electives
    • limited options compared to students who pursue a four-year program from the beginning (see #4 below)

  4. Consider what's important to you.

    If you're interested in any of the following options, a four-year program will give you the flexibility to pursue them.

    • exploring elective courses
    • earning a minor or a double major
    • studying abroad or doing a domestic exchange at another U.S. university
    • completing a full semester internship

  5. Consider what's important to your prospective employers.

    The Stockbridge School name carries a lot of weight in many industries and having a degree from the school is seen as an important asset. A four-year degree is also valuable, but does not carry the Stockbridge name.

  6. Consider your academic experience.

    If you have previously earned college credits, you may be able to transfer enough credit to complete a bachelor's degree in the same amount of time it would take to complete an associate's degree. An advisor can look at your individual situation and assess what credits would transfer and how that would effect your options.

    If you already have a bachelor's degree, you may be able to complete a second bachelor's degree in only two years. Second bachelor degree candidates work with an advisor to develop an individual plan of study. They complete only the requirements for their chosen major and do not need to complete the general undergraduate requirements. For more information, contact Marjorie Southworth in the Admissions office at 413-545-0222.

  7. Consider how easily/quickly you'll be able to adapt to college life.

    For some students, adapting to college life is itself a considerable challenge. It may be the first time they've lived away from home or been responsible for their own schedule. If you anticipate a significant lifestyle transition, a four-year program may be a better choice. Four-year students can choose to begin their first semester with one or two core classes from their major, plus several general education electives. This gives them time to acclimate to their new surroundings and lifestyle. Two-year students have a compressed curriculum, and are generally required to take four core classes in their first semester. The workload is intense and 2-year students need to be able to acclimate quickly so they can focus on their studies.

  8. Consider how comfortable you are committing to a four-year curriculum.

    Four years is a significant period of time. For some students, it's better to know they can stop after two years and have a completed degree from a highly respected school. Completing only two years of a four-year program, and entering the workforce without a degree does not open the same career opportunities.

  9. Consider your long-term career options.

    Most people change careers several times throughout their lives. Different industries and professions have different standards of education. For young adults with little or no prior college education, a four-year degree may offer more choices in the future, even though their immediate career goals may be attainable with a two-year degree. For older students making a career change, a two-year degree may be the best option for making a quick transition.

  10. Research your options for reduced tuition.

    If you are a resident of Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont, Connecticut, or Rhode Island, you may be eligible for reduced tuition depending on which major you choose to pursue AND whether you opt for a two- or four-year program. For example, some out-of-state students are eligible for reduced tuition when pursuing a two-year Turfgrass Management program, but NOT a four-year Turfgrass Management program. Be sure you understand what's available to you. Get an overview of how the program works, or visit the NERSP website for more details.