Accelerated Programs

High-achieving economics majors can earn a graduate degree with just one additional year of study — completing two degrees in less time than pursuing them separately. Students earn up to 12 credit hours of graduate coursework during their senior year that count toward both the bachelor's and graduate programs.

These accelerated sequences are available to ISU undergraduate students only. Enrollment does not guarantee final admission into the graduate program. Students must apply to the graduate program in the semester they graduate from their bachelor's program.

Undergraduate Program Advisor

Erin Hastings
eehasti@IllinoisState.edu
(309) 438-7101

Choose Your Pathway

Economics Accelerated Sequence

B.A. or B.S. in Economics - M.A. or M.S. in Applied Economics

Deepen your analytical expertise with a graduate degree in applied economics. Ideal for careers in consulting, data analytics, finance, and public policy.

5 years total (4+1 program)
33 grad hours (12 taken as senior)

Sample Plan of Study

Economics/MBA Accelerated Sequence

B.A. or B.S. in Economics - Master of Business Administration

Combine analytical rigor with business leadership. A cross-college collaboration between the College of Arts and Sciences and the College of Business.

5 years total (4+1 program)
36 grad hours (12 taken as senior)

Sample Plan of Study

How It Works

Step 1: Apply in your junior year

Apply one year before completing your degree. Minimum cumulative GPA of 3.20 required.

Step 2: Take graduate courses senior year

Earn up to 12 hours of approved 400-level courses counting toward both degrees.

Step 3: Complete your graduate degree

Apply to the graduate program at graduation and finish remaining requirements in ~one year.

Admission Requirements

Must be an enrolled B.A. or B.S. in Economics student.
Cumulative minimum 3.20 GPA for all coursework completed at Illinois State.
Consult with your economics advisor before each graduate course to ensure approval.
Grade of C or better in each required course. Minimum 15 senior ECO hours must be completed at Illinois State.
Submit departmental application one year before graduation. Applications reviewed by the admissions committee; admission is competitive.
Apply to graduate school during your senior year to finalize admission.

Economics/MBA applicants: Students without sufficient background in business areas should expect to complete pre-MBA coursework. Recommended electives: ACC 131, ACC 132 (Accounting), FIL 185, FIL 190 or FIL 240 (Finance), MGT 220 (Management), MKT 230 (Marketing).