Degree Programs

Wellesley 4+1 Degree Program
(for Wellesley students)

Applying to the 4+1 Program

As a dual degree program, the Olin 4+1 program offers a number of potential advantages for Wellesley students. Graduates of the program may have greater access to engineering careers and/or graduate study in engineering. The program requires relatively little disruption to the student’s Wellesley program: the student graduates at Wellesley with her entering class, and then transitions smoothly to being a full-time student at Olin for her fifth year of study. The Olin engineering programs also differ significantly from most other schools’ programs, particularly in the emphasis on design, active learning, and interdisciplinary approaches.

At the same time, the 4+1 program is clearly not appropriate for all students. The 4+1 program requires a significant commitment (at least an additional year of study), and Wellesley students must complete math and science requirements, as well as at least five engineering courses, before their final year at Olin. For some students in fields such as physics or computer science, a master’s degree in engineering or science can make more sense than an additional bachelor's degree. Furthermore, the requirements of the program reduce a student’s elective flexibility during her four years at Wellesley.

Compatibility with Wellesley Majors

Many Wellesley majors are, in principle, compatible. Naturally majors that include a higher fraction of science and mathematics courses have greater overlap with the requirements of an engineering degree; some majors may be incompatible simply due to the large number of units required.

Details on applying for the 4+1 program - click here

4+1 Program Admission Timeline

October 15: Deadline for submitting the Application for Wellesley Support

December 1: Deadline for submitting the 4+1 application and all supporting materials

Mid-December: Decision letters sent to applicants

February 15: Deadline to apply for need-based financial aid by submitting the FAFSA form

February/March: Notification of costs sent out to admitted students

April 1: Deadline for accepting offer of admission to the 4+1 program and for submission of a non-refundable $1000 deposit. Admitted students should notify the Associate Director of Admission via email (susan.brisson@olin.edu) of their decision.