4+1 Degree Programs

Save Time & Money with a 4+1 Degree Program in Translation Studies at Binghamton University 

Typically, earning a master's degree takes two years. But with Binghamton University's 4+1 programs, you can earn your master's degree with just one extra year of classes. You'll finish both your bachelor's degree and your master's degree in a total of five years.

The Master of Arts (MA) in Translation Studies can be combined with a BA in Linguistics:

  • BA Linguistics + MA Translation Studies

Students complete much of the coursework for their bachelor's degree in the first three years. In their fourth year, they take both bachelor's- and master's-level courses, and up to three graduate courses can double count for both the graduate and undergraduate degrees. At the end of their fourth year, students graduate with their bachelor's degree and formally apply to Graduate Admissions. In their fifth year, they are admitted to the master’s program and focus solely on graduate coursework.

Take your Binghamton experience to the next level. Plan your coursework early and apply for a 4+1 program today.

  • Application & Admissions Process

    Students are strongly encouraged to consult with the undergraduate advisor/director in your major program as an initial step in the process. Students apply to the 4+1 program of their choosing generally no earlier than their fourth semester of undergraduate study (second semester of sophomore year), and generally not later than the sixth semester of undergraduate study (second semester of the junior year). Applications from students in their final year of undergraduate study will occasionally be considered.

    Admissions applications are competitively evaluated on the basis of the quality of grades, references, an applicant statement of intent, cv and the interview. Applicants are advised that acceptance into the 4+1 Program is highly competitive, with a limited number of students accepted into the program each year. Applicants will be notified of the Admissions Committee's decision within two weeks after the interview.

    Deadlines:

    The intent application deadline is March 15th annually. The deadline for the graduate applications for fall terms is due January 15. Applications for spring terms are considered on a rolling basis.

    Eligibility:

    Linguistics majors interested in applying to the 4+1 program should first meet with the program director in Linguistics to discuss the program. Students must have an exceptional academic record, including a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.3.

    Applicants must also submit two letters from faculty attesting to the student's potential in a graduate program.

    Application:

    A complete application for admission to any of the 4+1 programs should include all of the following:

    • A writing sample

    • The completed application cover page providing the student’s information

    • The applicant's unofficial Binghamton University transcript as well as transcripts from any other colleges or universities the applicant has attended.

    • A current resume or curriculum vitae.

    • A brief statement of intent (1-2 pages) explaining the applicant’s interest in the program, the areas of translation studies that most interest them, their language competencies, and what their professional plans are after receiving their master’s degree.

    • Two letters of recommendation from Binghamton University faculty members. It works to a student’s benefit to have at least one of the letters  address either the student’s language skills or translation experiences.

  • Continuing Eligibility
    • Upon admission to the 4+1 Program, successful completion of benchmark degree requirements is necessary for continued standing in the program. While some requirements vary according to the specific 4+1 Program into which the student has been accepted, benchmark requirements applicable to all admitted students include the following:
    • Maintenance of the minimum GPA requirements for admission to the program during the remainder of their undergraduate studies.
    • Successful completion of the undergraduate degree in the fourth year of study, including all General Education and Harpur College requirements for graduation.
    • Successful application to and acceptance by the Graduate School at the end of undergraduate studies.
    • Receipt of grades of "B-" or better and a cumulative GPA of at least 3.0 in all graduate coursework.
  • Tuition and Financial Aid
    • Students admitted to the 4+1 program are formally considered undergraduates and pay undergraduate tuition rates until they graduate with the BA/BS degree. During the fifth year in the 4+1 Program, students are formally considered graduate students and pay graduate tuition rates. University guidelines stipulate that students must be registered as full-time graduate students for one academic year (18 credits minimum) to receive their Master’s degree through the 4+1 Program.
    • Binghamton University's Graduate School does not provide financial aid or any form of tuition assistance to students pursuing MA or MS degrees; students in the 4+1 Program are thus not eligible for Graduate School financial aid or tuition assistance during their fifth year of study.
    • However, other sources of financial aid may be available through the Graduate School financial aid and tuition assistance page and through other non-academic divisions and units on campus, such as the Library.

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