4+1 Contiguous Bachelor’s/Master’s Pathway
The UC Santa Cruz Economics Department offers a 4+1 Contiguous Bachelor’s/Master’s Pathway that is open to UC Santa Cruz students from all majors. This program provides highly motivated undergraduate students with a streamlined admissions process into our M.S. in Quantitative Economics and Finance degree program, offering a chance to earn both a bachelor’s degree and our master’s degree within five years.
Applying to the pathway
To be accepted into the contiguous bachelor’s/master’s pathway, students must prepare an application and course plan demonstrating strong academic performance (GPA of 3.0 or above) and planned completion of core Economics courses ECON 1, ECON 2, and ECON 100A. Fill out an interest form to get started.
The completed application should be submitted by June 1 of the student’s junior year and must include the required supporting documentation. Students apply in consultation with their faculty undergraduate advisor from their current major.
Entering the M.S. program
Students accepted into the contiguous pathway will be able to use a streamlined process in the Graduate Division’s admissions portal during their senior year, which will only require them to submit a copy of their unofficial transcripts, a one-page personal statement describing a) the student’s motivation and academic preparation for entering the pathway, b) the student’s goals for the pathway, and c) future professional goals, a letter of recommendation, and the application fee. While admission to the pathway facilitates a simplified application process, it does not guarantee final acceptance into the M.S. in Quantitative Economics and Finance program. Admission decisions are based on academic performance, faculty recommendations, and Graduate Division review.
Academic planning
Students are strongly encouraged to work closely with both their undergraduate and graduate advisors to ensure timely completion of all degree requirements and to plan an efficient course sequence that supports a successful transition into graduate study. Some undergraduate elective courses may be applied toward master’s degree credit. See full details and limitations in the UCSC Academic Catalog.