Colleges are rapidly launching reduced‑credit, three‑year bachelor’s programs, with some institutions seeking approval to award degrees at 90 credits rather than the traditional 120. Johnson & Wales, Ensign College and nearly 60 other colleges are piloting or planning such programs, and several states are urging public campuses to add reduced‑credit tracks. Administrators cite lower cost and faster workforce entry for students; critics warn of quality, transferability and advising challenges as the model expands quickly.