Our accelerated Combined Programs provide qualified AU undergraduate students across all majors with an opportunity to save time, save money, deepen their expertise, and jumpstart their careers. Through SPA's Combined Program offerings, current undergraduate students with a demonstrated history of academic excellence can apply for admission and significantly reduce their graduate program costs and program duration

Who Can Apply?

Current AU undergraduate students should ideally apply for the combined bachelor's/master's program once they have earned 75-90 academic credits. Exceptions to this range are possible depending on individual student circumstances. While we highly encourage first-year students to explore SPA's Combined Program offerings, you must be in your second year at AU to apply. 

Before I Apply:

Before starting your application, you must complete the following:

• First, speak with the Combined Programs Liaison at SPACombinedPrograms@american.edu.

• Second, speak with your dedicated Undergraduate Advisor about your interest in SPA's Combined Programs.

• Third, you will be connected with the appropriate Graduate Advisor for the Combined Program master's degree that you are interested in for an important pre-application meeting. 

How do I Apply?

Start your application here. Please note that your Entry Term on your application is the first semester immediately following your undergraduate graduation. For example, if your undergraduate graduation is in Spring 2023, you apply for Fall 2023.  One benefit of the Combined Program is the streamlined application process:

1. Online Application for Graduate Admissions
2. Personal Statement
3. 2 Letters of Recommendation
4. Unofficial AU Transcript
5. Resume or CV
6. Signed Terms of Agreement*
7. Application Fee – Waived
8. Official GRE Scores – Waived

*You will receive your Terms of Agreement document after your meeting with the Graduate Advisor.