Worcester Business Journal

wbjournal.com | April 6, 2026 | Worcester Business Journal 11 know that you're going to get what you pay for," said Banks. WPI's and Clark's master's degree tracks take between one to two years on average if attending full-time. e schools offer combined bachelor's and master's degree tracks taking between four and five years to complete. e average doctorate program takes four to seven years to finish, according to U.S. News & World Report. Still trying to attract students A Clark master's degree costs between $34,200 and $68,700, depend- ing on the specific concentration and credits required. A WPI master's degree costs about $53,250, depending on the number of credits needed. WPI is supporting its international students by increasing flexibility for admitted students and expanding its deferment options beyond the standard one year, said Small. In fall 2025, 72% of U.S. colleges and universities had already offered admit- ted international students deferrals to spring 2026, and 56% had provided deferrals to fall 2026, according to a survey performed by NAFSA. "We've also strengthened global engagement through graduate ambassa- dors, current international students who support prospective students as they prepare to join the WPI and Worcester communities," said Small. One way WPI is still pitching itself to potential international students is its designation as the sole Research 1 in- stitution in Central Massachusetts. e distinction is for universities that invest at least $50 million in research spending and award a minimum of 70 research doctorates annually. e designation has generated strong international interest in the university, said Small. At Clark, where officials declined to comment on the enrollment drop, the school is working to broaden its appeal to all students, through programs like Shaich Scholars. e program was funded by a $20-million gi from Ron Shaich, founder and former CEO of Panera Bread and 1976 Clark alumnus. e Shaich Scholars program pro- vides up to $10,000 for 50 incoming Clark undergraduates to fund experi- ential-learning opportunities, such as internships, study abroad, community projects, and research partnerships, said Laurie Ross, Clark's associate provost and dean of the college. "For students who are sort of weigh- ing their options, this really could be the kind of thing that would have them consider Clark and choose Clark," said Ross. Shaich Scholars will attend annual master classes with Shaich and be mentored by professionals in his network. "Maybe, over time, it becomes a reason why students apply. But initially the idea is that it would be part of their decision-making," Ross said. e program's financial support can be appealing for students deciding between working and engaging in their studies, Ross said. "ey'll be able to engage in some- thing that's a lot more meaningful and funding won't be a barrier," she said. As for next semester's international student enrollment throughout the U.S., Banks and her peers are not necessarily feeling optimistic, but they're waiting on standby. "Last fall was sort of an early indi- cator. e real measure will be 'What [does] this coming fall really show?'" she said. Clark President David Fithian (left) and WPI President Grace Wang, shown here meeting with students in previous years, wrote letters to their communities expressing ardent support for their international students in the spring of 2025. Local Offices 100 Front Street, 16th Floor Worcester, MA 01608 citrincooperman.com info@citrincooperman.com 30 Braintree Hill Office Park, Suite 300 Braintree, MA 02184 Our Manufacturing Industry Practice provides accounting, tax, and advisory solutions to aid manufacturers in reaching their business goals. Citrin Cooperman is proud to sponsor the WBJ's Manufacturing Summit & Excellence Awards! PHOTOS | COURTESY OF CLARK AND WPI Laurie Ross, Clark's associate provost and dean of the college W

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