Three years for a college degree? Merrimack and Suffolk proposals are worth trying.

Massachusetts is advancing a national trend toward three-year college degrees by allowing pilot programs at Merrimack College and Suffolk University. The Board of Higher Education authorized the framework in May, with both schools submitting proposals for fall 2027 implementation. Merrimack will offer a 96-credit applied bachelor’s in communications, criminal justice, psychology, and business administration, eliminating most electives while retaining core requirements. Suffolk, meanwhile, introduced a new 94-credit major in health care innovation and administration, combining general education, business fundamentals, and healthcare-specific coursework. The programs target students who prioritize career entry over a traditional four-year liberal arts experience. Merrimack College president Christopher Hopey noted that financial constraints often prevent students from exploring broader academic paths, while Suffolk University president Marisa Kelly emphasized the appeal for those seeking cost-effective, career-aligned degrees. Both institutions frame the degrees as alternatives for students who may otherwise forgo higher education due to time or financial barriers. Critics question whether employers and graduate programs will recognize the shorter degrees, despite claims that students will still develop critical thinking and communication skills. Irina Seceleanu, a math professor at Bridgewater State University, warned that broader skill validation remains untested. The Board of Higher Education will vote on the proposals this summer, with outcomes to be closely monitored for academic rigor and post-graduation success. The move aligns with a growing push to challenge the 120-credit standard, which proponents argue is unnecessary for professional readiness. Massachusetts’ pilot programs could serve as a model for other states, though their long-term acceptance hinges on employer and academic institution buy-in.