SF State Scholars Program in Economics

Blended 4+1 Bachelor's and Master's Degree Program

The Economics SF State Scholars Program provides qualified students with an integrated pathway to earn both a Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Economics and a Master of Science in Quantitative Economics (MSQE). This blended program allows students to complete both degrees in approximately five years through coordinated undergraduate and graduate coursework, providing advanced preparation for careers in economics and related fields.

Program Features and Benefits

Accelerated Pathway

Program participants can complete both degrees with reduced total time and tuition costs compared to pursuing separate degree programs.

  • Complete both BA and MS degrees in approximately five years.
  • Apply up to 12 graduate units toward both the BA and MS degree requirements.
  • Pay undergraduate tuition rates for up to 15 units of graduate coursework.
  • Enjoy a streamlined application process with no separate graduate application and direct progression from undergraduate to graduate status upon BA completion.
  • Access specialized departmental resources available to both undergraduate and graduate students.

Skill Development

Students develop expertise in advanced economic analysis and quantitative research methods through comprehensive coursework and real-world applications, including proficiency in data and statistics with modern software tools. The program provides opportunities to participate in faculty-supervised research projects for hands-on experience, while students work closely with Economics faculty throughout the program for personalized advising and academic mentorship.

Career Preparation

The program provides graduate-level training for enhanced career readiness and advanced professional development. Students build specialized expertise highly valued in economics-related careers while preparing for diverse positions in both the private and public sectors as well as in academia (doctoral programs).

Eligibility Requirements

To qualify for the Economics SF State Scholars Program, you must meet the following criteria:

  • Have declared Economics as your sole major.
  • Have completed fewer than 90-105 semester units.
  • Have completed the following courses with a grade of B or better (1-2 of these courses can be completed after enrolling in the program):
    • MATH 226 (Calculus I)
    • ECON 301 (Intermediate Microeconomic Theory)
    • ECON 302 (Intermediate Macroeconomic Theory)
    • ECON 311 (Statistical Methods and Interpretation) or equivalent
    • ECON 312 (Introduction to Econometrics)
  • Have NOT yet enrolled in ECON 690 (Senior Seminar).
  • Hold a cumulative GPA of 3.3 or higher in the last 60 semester units.

How to Apply

Begin your application process during your junior year:

  1. Consult the SF State Scholars Program Coordinator to verify your eligibility and be connected with a faculty advisor.
  2. Complete the program application in consultation with your faculty advisor.
  3. Obtain final approval from the Scholars Program Coordinator or the Department Chair.

Program Overview

SF State Scholar Program chart

Academic Timeline

The blended 4+1 program integrates undergraduate and graduate coursework, enabling students to smoothly transition from a BA in Economics to an MS in Quantitative Economics. For detailed planning guidance, see the Economics BA + Quantitative Economics MS SF State Scholars Roadmap. Below is an outline of the academic progression timeline.

Freshman and Sophomore Years

  • Foundation Courses:
    • General Education Requirements
    • ECON 101 (Introduction to Microeconomic Analysis)
    • ECON 102 (Introduction to Macroeconomic Analysis)
    • MATH 226 (Calculus I)
    • ECON 311 (Statistical Methods and Interpretation) or equivalent
    • ECON 301 (Intermediate Microeconomic Theory)

Junior Year

  • Advanced Undergraduate Courses, including:
    • ECON 302 (Intermediate Macroeconomic Theory)
    • ECON 312 (Introduction to Econometrics)
  • Apply to the SF State Scholars Program after completing approximately 90 units.

Senior Year

  • Begin Graduate Coursework While Completing BA Requirements:
    • Take up to 15 units of graduate-level economics courses, such as:
      • ECON 715 (Mathematical Economics)
      • ECON 701 (Seminar: Microeconomic Theory)
      • ECON 702 (Seminar: Macroeconomic Theory)
    • Pay undergraduate tuition rates for graduate courses.
    • Take advantage of undergraduate financial aid options.

Post-BA Completion

  • Transition to Full Graduate Status:
    • Apply for graduation to officially receive your BA in Economics.
    • Automatically matriculate into the MS in Quantitative Economics program.
  • Graduate Studies (at least two semesters):
    • Complete remaining graduate coursework.
    • Fulfil the cumulative experience requirement.

Graduates of the Economics SF State Scholars Program are prepared for careers across various sectors in economics and related fields.

Career Pathways

  • Quantitative Analysis and Data Science: Data scientist, data analyst, quantitative analyst, and similar roles.
  • Government and Public Sector: Federal, state, and local government agencies.
  • Business and Financial Services: Investment banking, economic consulting, market research and analysis.
  • Non-Profit and Research: Policy analysis, economic development, academic and research institutions.
  • Academia: Doctoral programs in Economics, Public Policy, Business, and related fields.

Q: What are the benefits of the blended 4+1 program?

A: The program allows students to earn both BA and MS degrees in approximately five years through integrated coursework. Students develop advanced analytical skills, complete graduate-level training, and gain competitive credentials for career advancement.

Q: How does the blended program structure work?

A: Students begin taking graduate-level courses during their senior undergraduate year, which count toward both degree requirements. After completing the BA, students transition to full graduate status to complete the MS program.

Q: Can I apply if I have a double major?

A: No, eligibility requires that Economics is your sole declared major.

Q: What financial aid options are available?

A: Students have access to undergraduate financial aid options while paying undergraduate tuition rates for graduate courses taken during their undergraduate studies. State University Grants are also available for eligible graduate students.

Q: Who can I contact for more information?

A: Please contact the Economics SF State Scholars Program Coordinator for additional information and guidance.

Contact Us

For program information and application guidance, contact the Economics Department SF State Scholars Program Coordinator.

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