Why JWU Students Say Yes to New Three-Year Bachelor's Degree

Students Share Why They Chose JWU’s Three-Year-Degree Program

“I first heard of JWU's three-year degree program when I toured the campus with my family in 2022. I enjoyed seeing the Downcity Campus and its approximate location to the city. I liked the idea of earning a college degree in three years while also being able to have a career that counts towards something more than just getting a paycheck. I want to be able to continue my career as a chef while gaining a much-needed degree and learning how to manage a company efficiently. I believe this is the fastest pipeline to getting a degree and joining the workforce.”
Quinn Zakarian ’28
Hospitality Management, Providence Campus

"I chose the three-year degree program in Design because I confidently know graphic design is something I want to pursue in the future as a career. The three-year program was also a great choice for me financially and saves me and my family a lot of money as well as still giving me all the credits and courses I need for a bachelor’s degree. So far, I am really enjoying the three-year degree program since it focuses more on design courses that are important for my degree. I like all my professors, and their method of teaching design and graphic design really helps me to exercise my creativity and find new ways to be creative."
Elyse Brassard ’28
Design, Providence Campus

“I’m excited to be part of the first group of JWU’s three-year degree students. I chose the three-year degree program because it gives me the opportunity to fast-track my education while still gaining the skills and experiences I need to succeed in the hospitality industry. I’ve always been very driven, and I appreciate how this program allows me to stay focused and motivated while saving time and resources. Hospitality is a passion of mine, and JWU’s strong reputation and hands-on approach to learning made it an easy choice. I’m looking forward to building my career on the solid foundation this program provides. I’m excited to see how this journey unfolds!”
Theresa Christian ’28
Hospitality Management, JWU Online

"Computer science is a quickly changing field, so being able to get a degree faster feels like I’m increasing the odds to jump on the ship right before it sets sail.”
Logan Fansler ’28
Computer Science, Providence Campus

"After 30-plus years in the hospitality industry, I decided it was time to return to academics, and JWU felt like the right place. The reputation of the school and the three-year degree program really drew me in. It was a great fit since I’d already completed some undergraduate work and liked the idea of finishing in the short timeframe. What really surprised me, though, was how smooth and supportive the process has been. From help with collecting transcripts (even from my high school in Japan) to the outreach from academics, financial aid and the Work Integrated Learning advisors, I’ve felt looked after every step of the way. Even the placement tests were handled in a clear and supportive way. I’m really happy with my choice to continue my academic journey at JWU.”
George Stinson ’28
Hospitality Management, JWU Online

“I chose the three-year-degree program because I thought it was a great opportunity to fast-track my college degree. I am excited to be a part of the first class at JWU to experience this program. Being able to get the same degree I was seeking in less time is very exciting! I love everything about the campus. My classes are all in the same building which is super nice, my professors have all been very good and the campus being in the city is my favorite part about JWU.”
Rachel Penny ’28
Criminal Justice, Providence Campus

"I discovered a deep love for the hospitality industry, especially the joy of creating unforgettable experiences for others. Working as a host, I fell head over heels for operations management. I found myself drawn to the behind-the-scenes work that keeps everything running smoothly. This program gives me the opportunity to grow both in the classroom and in the real world. It’s the perfect blend of hands-on experience and academic learning and I’m excited to continue to build the skills that will help me thrive in the hospitality field and beyond.”
Kamara Logan ’28
Hospitality Management, Providence Campus

"I initially began working toward my associate’s degree with JWU, but when I discovered the opportunity to complete a bachelor’s degree in just three years, I jumped at the chance. My long-term goal is to pursue a master’s degree in hospitality, so accelerating my bachelor’s degree is a significant step toward that objective. As an adult managing a demanding full-time job, I greatly value the opportunity to complete a bachelor’s degree program in three years. While my primary focus is on acquiring knowledge and truly understanding the material, saving time is equally important. JWU's three-year degree program allows me to achieve both — a strong academic foundation and steady progress toward my future career and educational goals.”
Natalia Lenzina ’28
Hospitality Management, JWU Online

"I chose the three-year Design program because I wanted to get a head start on my career. I’m young and already starting college early, so finishing in three years felt like the right path for me. So far, the program has been really good, the pacing isn’t overwhelming, and while the workload can be a lot, it’s definitely manageable. I feel like I’m being challenged in a way that’s preparing me for my future while still giving me the support I need to succeed.”
Samantha Lind ’28
Design, Providence Campus

"My future aspirations are to own and run a bed and breakfast or a small inn. I also want to start my career as soon as I can! That’s why the three-year degree program caught my eye; it’s a fast track into my career while learning hands-on from professors who have worked directly in the industry and have connections within the industry. That’s the right fit for me and the best way to gain the experience and knowledge I need for my future.”
Nina Geddes ’28
Hospitality Management, Providence Campus

Students can complete JWU’s three-year degree program either in person or fully online, giving working professionals and those with location or time constraints greater flexibility. At the Providence Campus, students can choose from four majors: Computer Science, Criminal Justice Studies, Design and Hospitality Management. Through JWU Online, the program is available in Hospitality Management and Computer Science. Starting in Fall 2026, the three-year Hospitality Management program will also launch at our Charlotte Campus.

JWU’s three-year degree program meets the needs of many of today’s students who have a clear sense of their career goals and want a direct path to achieve them. By completing their degree in three years instead of four, students can reduce the total time and cost of earning a bachelor’s degree, making it a practical option for many.