A Massachusetts-based university recently joined dozens of other U.S. schools by adding a three-year degree option for students who are looking to save time and money.

The Boston Globe reports that, beginning this fall, the school is offering the expedited program for students pursuing degrees in economics, music and sociology. The university plans to offer three-year degrees for one-third of its majors in the future, according to the news source.

"As the state backs out of support for public higher education, and families take on a bigger chunk of the burden, we need to try to mitigate that," an official with the school said.

According to CollegeBoard.com, a public four-year college in the U.S. costs an average tuition of $11,528 per semester for out-of-state residents. A private, four-year school charges an average of $26,273 each year. Both of those totals don't include living expenses and the costs of books and supplies.

Online colleges may present a more cost-friendly education for students who are looking to advance their careers.