President David Hodge introduced the possibility of creating a streamlined program that would allow students to obtain a combined bachelor's and master's degree in four and a half to five years. The university has considered similar programs before, but now has more intention of following through. The editorial board of The Miami Student expresses interest in the proposal and extends cautious support.

We recognize the potential benefit to both Miami University and students of such a program. With the average student graduating in less than four years, Miami is losing out on tuition. The university could gain one or two semesters of tuition should students stay with the university by participating in a streamlined master's program. Moreover, an increasing number of students are entering school with Advanced Placement credit. Instead of using the credit to allow them to graduate early, students would have the choice to stay and do more with their education at Miami. A bachelor's degree is not worth what it once was. To stay competitive, many students must pursue even higher degrees of education. By earning both a bachelor's and a master's degree, students would increase their odds of finding a suitable job, which would make a good selling point for the university as well.

Still, this board withholds its full-fledged support pending the university's elaboration of the program. While we believe this could enhance the overall undergraduate experience, we worry about possible negative impacts. Increasing the size of the graduate programs in connection with undergraduate programs shows an investment in the undergraduate student body. However, graduate programs should not be expanded at the expense of undergraduate programs. The classes available to undergrads should not suffer so that more courses may be offered solely for graduate students, for example. Professors also should not rely on the increased grad student population as a pool from which to increase the number of teaching assistants.

The university must proceed slowly and make details of the proposal available to all. Such a program could represent a slight shift in the focus of the university, so it should not rush the process of creation. The idea offers an opportunity for a town hall-style discussion. Ultimately, it could be beneficial to Miami and its students in the long run, but only if implemented with a clear aim and deliberate strategy.