4+1 Graduate Programs

Start Your Master’s Degree as an Undergraduate

Are you thinking about a master’s degree in business, public policy, technology, or sport management? Save time and up to $8,200 by applying for a 4+1 program before starting your senior year at Cal Lutheran!

Join Us for Our Next Event

M.S. in Information Technology Online Information Session
Tuesday, Nov. 3, 2026 at 12:00 - 1:00 pm

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How It Works

Take up to three graduate courses during your senior year

Admission is based on having senior status at Cal Lutheran and a minimum GPA of 3.0.

Complete your undergraduate degree requirements

Earn your B.A. or B.S. and walk the stage at Commencement

Continue your graduate program courses as a full-time student

Complete your degree in as little as one additional year—and save up to $8,200!

Graduate Programs Open House

Thursday, October 22, 2026 from 6:00 - 7:30 pm

Join us for an evening designed to help you explore what’s possible at Cal Lutheran. Connect with graduate school deans, program directors, current students, alumni and admission counselors in a relaxed, informal setting while learning more about our graduate programs and the Cal Lutheran experience. Whether you’re just beginning to consider graduate school or you’re ready to take the next step, this is an opportunity to ask questions, make connections and discover the program that can help you reach your academic and professional goals. During the Open House, enjoy light appetizers and refreshments while you: - Meet our graduate school deans and program faculty - Explore Cal Lutheran’s graduate degree programs - Hear firsthand from current students and alumni about their experiences - Learn about financial aid, scholarships and other funding opportunities - Get your questions answered through casual, one-on-one conversations We look forward to welcoming you to campus and starting the conversation about what’s next!

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Choose Your Program

MBA

An MBA puts you in control of your career path by giving you a grounding in core business skills. Choose from four emphasis areas to focus on your area of interest (Finance, IT Management, Marketing, or Sport Management). Attend classes on-campus, online, or both. Learn more

MS in Information Technology

Our program balances both business and technology elements, preparing you to work and lead within the IT field. Choose a track in Cybersecurity, Data Analytics, or IT Management. Learn more

Master of Public Policy and Administration

Meet and exceed the evolving demands of the public, private, and nonprofit sectors with your MPPA. You'll blend practice and theory in a highly respected, practical, and flexible program of study. Learn more

MS in Sport Management

This program is the ideal degree for anyone seeking to develop unique sport industry skills and thrive in their career. This fully online program provides a strong foundation in business and management, tailored to the industry’s unique requirements. Learn more

MS in Quantitative Economics and Predictive Analytics

Study and implement industry-leading data analysis and model-building from professionally connected faculty in a nationally-ranked program. Learn more

Admission FAQ

How do I get admitted?

Meet with your Student Success Counselor to verify whether you are eligible to participate in the 4+1 program
Admission is based on submitting and completing a graduate application (typically as you finish your junior year at Cal Lutheran) as well as fulfilling certain 4+1 eligibility criteria (e.g., having senior status at Cal Lutheran and a minimum GPA of 3.0)
To learn more about the 4+1 program and how to apply, contact the Graduate Admission Office at 805-493-3325 or clugrad@CalLutheran.edu to meet with an admission counselor

How do I take courses?

You can start taking graduate courses during the fall or spring semesters of your senior year. Once admitted to a 4+1 program, contact your Graduate Admission Counselor or Graduate Program Specialist to make your course selections.
Take up to a total of 3 graduate courses during your senior year
You must be registered in a minimum of 12 undergraduate units each semester you participate in the 4+1 program, and not exceed 18 total units with graduate courses included
If you continue attending the graduate program as a full-time student after completing your undergraduate degree, you can earn your degree in as little as one year
With evening, weekend, and online courses, you have the flexibility to complete your degree while still pursuing your career aspirations!

What are the costs?

Contact Us to Learn More

If you're interested in a 4+1 program, please fill out this form to hear from our Graduate Admission office. You will also need to be in contact with your Student Success Counselor to verify your 4+1 eligibility.

What Students Have to Say

I would tell someone interested in the 4+1 program to do it. It is scary and hard, but it creates an opportunity to make yourself different than others. Also, now as everyone in my class is graduating a lot of people have told me they wish they had known about this program because they would have done it.

Amara Gwyn '16, MBA '19
4+1 Student, MBA

The 4+1 program is very flexible and since I was able to take graduate level classes as an undergraduate student, it sped up the timeframe of obtaining my MBA. The class options the MBA program offers, including weekend and online courses, made it easier to progress in the program even when work became more demanding.

Alexander Cervelli '19, MBA '20
4+1 Student, MBA

Next Steps