4+1 Accelerated Master’s Program in Applied Economics

Earn your Master's in Applied Economics at Lehigh in just one additional year.

Are you passionate about economics and looking to take your education to the next level? Lehigh University's 4+1 Accelerated Master’s Program in Applied Economics allows you to earn a Master of Arts (M.A.) in Applied Economics in just one extra year of study—an efficient and cost-effective way to advance your academic and professional goals.

This program is designed for high-achieving undergraduate students in fields like economics, business, and social sciences who want to deepen their understanding of economic theory and gain practical, data-driven expertise to solve real-world problems. With the 4+1 program, you can seamlessly transition from your undergraduate studies into a graduate program, leveraging your existing coursework while completing your master's degree in a fraction of the time.

Program Overview

The 4+1 Accelerated Master’s Program allows you to complete both your undergraduate and graduate degrees in just five years. Here's how it works:

1. Complete Your Undergraduate Degree: Finish your bachelor's degree in your chosen field (e.g., economics, business, or related disciplines) within four years.
2. Begin Graduate-level Coursework: During your senior year, you’ll start taking graduate-level courses in applied economics, which will count toward both your undergraduate and graduate degree requirements.
3. Finish Your Master's Degree in One Year: After completing your undergraduate degree, you'll continue for an additional year of study to complete the remaining graduate courses and earn your M.A. in Applied Economics.

Key Benefits

• Save Time and Money: Complete your master's degree in just one additional year, allowing you to enter the workforce with a graduate degree sooner than traditional graduate programs. The accelerated timeline also reduces the overall cost of obtaining your degree.
• Advanced Skills for the Modern Economy: Learn to apply economic theory and quantitative methods to real-world issues in industries such as finance, public policy, international development, data analytics, and more.
• Hands-on Experience: The Applied Economics program emphasizes practical skills, with opportunities for internships, applied research projects, and collaborations with local businesses and government agencies.
• Seamless Transition: By starting graduate coursework in your senior year, you transition smoothly from your undergraduate program into advanced studies, ensuring minimal disruption to your academic progression.
• Career Opportunities: With a Master's in Applied Economics, you’ll be qualified for high-demand roles in economics, data analysis, policy analysis, market research, and consulting, among other fields. The program’s strong focus on real-world application means you’ll be prepared for immediate impact in your career.

Who Should Apply?

This program is ideal for current or incoming undergraduate students who have a strong foundation in economics, mathematics, and data analysis, and who are interested in applying these skills to address complex economic issues. Relevant bachelor’s degrees include:

• Economics
• Business
• Finance
• Mathematics
• Political science
• Social sciences

Master’s in Applied Economics Contact

Graduate Program’s Office: business@lehigh.edu | 610-758-4450