Three-Year Pathway to Graduation
Vision
The Cal Poly Orfalea College of Business offers a unique accelerated degree option for those looking to save time and money or jumpstart their careers. While the traditional four-year college experience is still the most appropriate for many students, this accelerated three-year pathway provides the opportunity to complete an undergraduate degree in less time, allowing students to:
- Begin careers earlier
- Save time and money while pursuing a high-quality education
- Complete bachelor’s + master’s degrees within the traditional four-year period
- Build post-graduation time for global travel, service learning, or other experience before beginning careers
Who Would Be Interested in This Experience?
- Students who have completed advanced placement (AP) or community college credits totaling at least 20% or 36 quarter units prior to attending Cal Poly
- Students interested in completing the BSBA degree and one-year Orfalea graduate degree program (Master of Business Administration, Master of Science in Business Analytics, and Master of Science in Quantitative Economics)
How Do I Earn 180 Credits in Three Years?
Collaborate with the academic advising team to declare a concentration/emphasis and customize a plan that aligns with your goals and prior credits to complete the bachelor’s degree requirements within three years. The BUS 100 Orientation & College Success Course, taken first quarter of the first year, includes a developing personalized plan to achieve academic and career aspirations, which include the necessary coursework as well as opportunities for internships, minors, and study-abroad programs.
Cost Savings of Graduating in Three Years
Graduating early can lead to significant financial benefits:
| Educational Cost | California Resident | Non-Resident |
| Tuition and fees | $11,000 | $28,000 |
| Living expenses | $16,000 | $16,000 |
| Total | $27,000 | $44,000 |
Opportunity Cost of Starting a Career Earlier:
Graduating in three years allows students to enter the workforce one year sooner. The average starting salary for business graduates is $78,000.
Example Scenario:
A California resident who graduates in three years saves $27,000 in tuition and living costs and earns an additional in their first year of employment. This results in a total financial gain of approximately $92,000 compared to the traditional four-year path.