4+1 Master's Degree

The Department of Economics offers current 红桃影视 economics undergraduate students the opportunity to take graduate courses towards an M.A. degree in Applied Economics (Please note: Students must complete their bachelor’s degree with a minimum of 129 credit hours.)

 

Step 1: To get started, watch the video, view the program overview slides, or read the flyer.

 4+1 Program Overview Download Brochure

Step 2: After reviewing the above information, please review the sample plans for a preview of what your overall 4+1 plan may look like.

4+1 Sample Plans

Step 3: For detailed guidance selecting courses, please view the course selection guide. If you still need help, contact your academic advisor.

Couse Selection Guide

Step 4: If you plan to enroll in 6000 level course(s) next semester, please complete the below form. You will need to confirm that you meet the requirements. If you are eligible, the graduate team will grant you permission to enroll in the course(s).

 

 

4+1 FAQs

  1. What is the 4+1 Program?
    The 4+1 Program is an accelerated option that allows students to take graduate-level courses while completing their undergraduate degree. These graduate courses are taken in addition to undergraduate requirements, enabling students to save both time and money by earning a master’s degree in just one additional year. The program also equips students with advanced skills and knowledge to excel in today’s competitive job market.

  2. How do I get more information about the 4+1 program?
    We have a variety of program materials to help you get started. Click here to view the program overview, sample plans, course selection guide, and more.

  3. How many graduate courses can I take that will count towards both my undergraduate degree and my MA degree?
    You can take up to 3 graduate courses (9 credit hours) as an undergraduate student. The graduate courses will be taken as additional courses while pursuing your undergraduate degree. (Please note: Students must complete their bachelor’s degree with a minimum of 129 credit hours.)

  4. Am I still on track to graduate on time (with my undergraduate degree)?
    The program requires additional credit hours beyond those needed for your undergraduate degree, with a minimum of 129 total credit hours upon graduation. As outlined in the Course Selection Guide, you will need to complete several 6000-level courses and avoid taking their 4000-level equivalents. If you are already far along in your undergraduate studies, it may not be possible to meet these requirements. Please contact your academic advisor if you have any questions about the course guide or program planning.

  5. Am I eligible for the 4+1 program?
    Your 4+1 eligibility will not be formally checked until it is time to enroll in 6000-level courses. You may view the for a preview of those requirements. However, students initially expressing interest should be at or near a 3.0 ECO GPA as well as a 3.0 overall GPA. If it does not look attainable to reach both 3.0 GPAs by the semester in which 6000 level courses will be taken, you may be told that the program is not a good fit for you.

  6. How do I apply for the 4+1 program?
    There is not an application for the 4+1 program. As described in #5 above, your eligibility will be checked periodically as you apply to enroll in 6000-level courses. You will, however, formally apply for the MA program (see #7 below) during your senior year.

  7. Do I still need to apply to the MA program if I am enrolled in the 4+1 program?
    Yes, students enrolled in the 4+1 program will still need to apply to enroll in the MA program, typically in their last semester of their senior year. (Please note: Students must complete their bachelor’s degree with a minimum of 129 credit hours.)

  8. How do I know the likelihood of being admitted to the master’s program?
    Admission to the Master’s program cannot be guaranteed until you formally submit your application during your final undergraduate semester. However, each time you submit a , your progress will be evaluated to determine whether you are on track for admission. You will only be permitted to register for these courses if your academic trajectory indicates that you are likely to qualify. Final admission decisions are based on your performance in these and other courses, which is why a definitive admission decision can only be made near the end of your undergraduate program.

  9. Can I pursue the Master’s of Science (MS) program instead of the Master’s of Arts (MA) program as part of 4+1?
    The 4+1 program is structured around the M.A. in Applied Economics, not the M.S. degree. If you participate in the 4+1 program, you must apply to the M.A. program. Once admitted and officially enrolled, if you later decide to pursue the M.S. in Applied Economics and Predictive Analysis, you will need to complete the change-of-major process. Please note that additional coursework may be required to finish the program within the same timeframe.

  10. What will happen if I take graduate courses and then decide not to pursue the MA degree?
    You will not lose credits. The graduate courses will still fulfill your undergraduate degree requirements as long you have completed your bachelor's degree with a minimum of 120 credit hours.

  11. I have other questions, but I’m not sure who to contact.

  • For basic program information and help creating a rough 4+1 schedule, please contact us at eco@smu.edu.
  • For detailed help selecting 6000 vs. 4000 level courses, use the “Course Selection Guide.” Please contact your academic advisor if you have any questions about the course guide.
  • For questions about the master’s portion specifically (i.e. benefits of a master’s program, how to ultimately apply for the master’s program, the MA vs. the MS program, etc.), contact the graduate team at ECOmastersinfo@mail.smu.edu.