Photo: WBZ NewsRadio
BOSTON (WBZ NewsRadio) — The Massachusetts Board of Education is allowing colleges to submit their proposals for three-year degree programs.
Suffolk University and Merrimack College are the first two schools in Massachusetts to submit proposals for the newly approved programs. The new regulations come after the board approved the changes allowing schools to submit proposals for 3-year, 90-credit bachelor's degree programs on Feb. 10.
The proposals will undergo a state review before any approval will be granted. Some college-age students like Vanessa say they have some doubts about it, feeling four years is an appropriate time for higher education.
Read More: Police Investigating Fire At Boston Museum Of African American History
"My immediate concern is the potential that GE's aren't gonna be met," she said. "And that it's not gonna provide a well-rounded education."
Citing the rising cost of tuition, declining enrollment, student debt, and workforce shortages, some residents say the new regulations allow students to jump-start their careers and lives.
"Getting students into careers faster, as there's a great need for that."
Theresa, a student at Emerson, says that while the opportunity sounds intriguing, she isn't sure that her major would qualify.
"I mean, do I think mine would be three-year? Maybe not."
The public comment period for both schools' proposals ends June 19, ahead of the next school board meeting on June 26.
WBZ NewsRadio's Jim MacKay (@JimMackayONAIR) reports.