NDSU College of Business students can now pursue an accelerated pathway to graduation

Students in NDSU’s College of Business now have an accelerated pathway to graduation through the Finish in Three program, an option that allows students in any business major to earn their bachelor’s degree in three years.

Designed for students who arrive at NDSU with college-level credits already completed, Finish in Three helps students turn early momentum into long-term success. Through intentional academic planning and personalized advising, the program enables students to save time, reduce costs and enter the workforce sooner — all while earning the same AACSB-accredited business degree offered through NDSU’s traditional four-year programs.

The Finish in Three program reflects NDSU’s commitment to innovation, student success and career readiness by meeting students where they are and helping them move forward with purpose.

“As a public, land-grant university, NDSU serves the entire state and is committed to addressing the workforce needs of North Dakota and Minnesota. Those workforce needs mean students want to enter the job market sooner, and employers want to hire our graduates sooner. Finish in 3 helps meet both goals,” said Kathryn Birkeland, Ronald and Kaye Olson Dean of the College of Business.

Students participating in the Finish in Three program follow a semester-by-semester academic roadmap developed in consulation with a dedicated academic advisor. The plan incorporates fall, spring and summer coursework, though students may choose heavier fall and spring course loads if they prefer not to enroll in summer classes. The structured approach removes uncertainty and allows students to focus on their goals with confidence.

“It makes college feel more manageable. Having a structured plan makes it feel organized and less stressful because I would know exactly what I need to do each semester,” said Kaelyn Walker, a high school senior at Osakis Public School, who will be starting her business degree in the fall. “Graduating in three years is exciting because it saves time and money. It would allow me to start my career sooner and avoid an extra year of tuition and expenses.”

The program also offers flexibility. If a student decides to switch majors or pursue a traditional four-year timeline, advisors help modify the academic plan to ensure continued progress toward graduation.

In addition to graduating sooner, students in the program can see significant financial benefits. Many program participants will save an estimated $5,000 to $10,000 in tuition and living expenses while also beginning their careers earlier than peers in traditional degree timelines.

The program is available to all majors within the NDSU College of Business. To qualify, students typically enter NDSU with at least 15 transferable college credits, often in foundational courses such as economics, mathematics, psychology and communication. Advisors work closely with students to determine how existing credits apply and to adjust plans as needed.

Prospective students interested in the Finish in Three program can fill out an interest form to connect with the program team.