<p>We heard about RPI's "co-terminal" degree program. It goes something like this - student combines bachelor's and master's together starting junior. At end of 5 years, student receives both bachelor's and master's degrees (no bachelor's at 4th yr). The pros are 1) kids get their master's in 1 year (could happen normally, but not always); 2) undergrad financial aid (need + merit) is carried for 10 semesters (doesn't stop at 8 semesters, but won't go beyond 10 if student falls behind).</p>
<p>Question - if student is a high flier, it looks like they're cut out of applying for a master's with high merit award. Anyone with experience in the program have comments?</p>
<p>I did something similar to this program (the exact details of how things work out are a bit different, but the old program is now gone so I won’t bother elaborating).</p>
<p>This might be good for someone who wants to finish up their academic career with a master’s degree, but probably not worth it for someone who wants to go on to pursue a Ph.D in science or engineering (unless you want the extra year of classes/research to show up in your application). In those cases, it’s probably best to look into attending funded graduate programs instead.</p>
<p>As usual, it’s probably best to discuss the possibility with your adviser.</p>
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<p>What is the definition of a ‘high flier’?</p>
<p>I’m also very interested in this topic as the 5-year BS/MS is high on my daughter’s list of benefits for RPI.</p>
<p>Meaning top 1/4 of class. “Merit worthy”, as in undergrad. Not sure how it works so kicking the tires on scenarios. It would be a shame to have to pay for Master’s if the undergrad had a shoe in for a “free” Master’s due to being in top of class (maybe top 5% not top 1/4 - making this stuff up). With co-terminal, you don’t get your BS until same time as MS - after 5th year.</p>