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Accelerated BA/MA Program

Accelerated BA/MA Program


Earn your master’s degree in just one extra year.

If you love Virginia Tech and want to deepen your economics training, the Accelerated BA/MA Program allows qualified undergraduates to earn both degrees in five years instead of six. This program is ideal for students who want to strengthen their analytical skills, prepare for graduate study, or enter the workforce with a competitive edge.


The program allows current Virginia Tech economics majors to take graduate-level coursework during their senior year, applying those credits toward both degrees. Students complete the remaining MA requirements in a fifth year of study.

Benefits include:

  • Save time and tuition by completing both degrees in five years.
  • Strengthen quantitative, analytical, and research skills valued by employers.
  • Gain deeper insight into microeconomics, macroeconomics, and econometrics.
  • Build connections with faculty and graduate students through smaller classes and mentorship.

Eligibility
To apply for the accelerated program, students must:

  • Be a current Virginia Tech student with at least two semesters of undergraduate coursework remaining
  • Earn at least a B or better in ECON 3104, ECON 3204, and ECON 3254
  • Complete an advanced math course, such as MATH 2204 (Multivariable Calculus) or MATH 2114 (Linear Algebra).
  • Maintain a minimum GPA of 3.3 (overall and in-major) at the time of application.
  • Complete a formal application to the VT Graduate School

Ideal Program Timeline

Sophomore Year (or 4 semesters before graduation)

  • Meet with the Director of Undergraduate Studies to confirm eligibility.
  • Plan remaining coursework to include MATH 2114 or 2204, if you haven't already completed it.

Spring of Junior Year (or 2 semesters before graduation)

  • Prepare application materials (statement of purpose, recommendation letters, and transcript).
  • Submit application for admission to the Accelerated Program (deadline: March 1).

Senior Year

  • Begin taking graduate-level courses (typically electives).
  • Complete undergraduate degree requirements & graduate with your bachelor's degree

Fifth Year (MA Year)

  • Complete remaining graduate coursework (typically ECON 5005, 5015, and 5124)
  • Graduate with your MA degree in Economics

Interested in the Program?
Students interested in applying or learning more should contact Dr. Jadrian Wooten, Director of Undergraduate Studies (DrWooten@vt.edu) for more information.