Get a head start on your graduate degree with the MSPE 4+1 Track
The Master of Science in Policy Economics (MSPE) program consistently ranks among the top 10 professional master's programs in economics in the United States. It provides an applied economics degree, with an emphasis on econometric techniques and statistical analysis. The program prepares students for successful careers as research analysts in industry, finance, marketing, consulting, and government. Students gain rigorous training in economic theory, quantitative methods, and large-scale data analysis, equipping them to translate complex data into actionable insights for decision-making. The program also provides excellent preparation for Ph.D. study in Economics, Agricultural and Applied Economics, Finance, and Accountancy.
The graduate program takes roughly two years to complete. The MSPE 4+1 Track is an accelerated pathway that allows you to finish the graduate program in just one year—saving you time and tuition.
How it Works
MSPE Program
Students typically begin MSPE coursework after completing their undergraduate degree. The graduate program consists of 10 four-credit courses, including:
Microeconomics (Econ 500)
Macroeconomics (Econ 501)
Statistics (Econ 502)
Econometrics (Econ 503)
Six graduate electives (two in a field of specialization)
MSPE 4+1 Track
The MSPE 4+1 Track is not a separate degree. It is an accelerated pathway into the MSPE program for undergraduate students. Through the 4+1 Track, qualified students:
Apply during the spring semester of their junior year
Begin MSPE graduate coursework in their senior year
Compete the remaining requirements in one additional year
This structure allows students to earn both their bachelor's and master's degrees in five total years.
MSPE 4+1 Coursework Timeline
Senior Year
Fall Semester: Econ 500 and Econ 502 (Statistics)
Spring Semester: Econ 503 (Econometrics)
Fifth Year
Econ 501 (Macroeconomics)
Six graduate electives
Title
Learn More About the MSPE 4+1 Track
Join the information session on Monday, March 9, at 4:00 p.m. in room 162 of the Education Building. Hear from current MSPE students and learn more about the MSPE 4+1 Track and how to apply.
Can't make it to the info session?
Frequently asked questions
How can I apply?
Email the MSPE Office (econ-mspe-track@illinois.edu) with the subject line "MSPE 4+1 Track." In the content of your email, include:
- A brief explanation of your interest in the program
- Your coursework plan for the fall and spring semesters of your senior year, not including the 500-level MSPE courses you plan to take
- List the courses you are currently taking
- Provide the name of one instructor from a course you've taken in your major to serve as a reference—be sure you have the instructor's permission to list them as a reference
- Attach a copy of your unofficial transcript from the Registrar's Office
Applications are due by March 31, 2026.
What are the acceptance criteria?
Juniors who have a feasible plan to complete their bachelor's degree by the end of their senior year, have a minimum 3.0 cumulative GPA at the end of fall semester of their junior year, and maintain it through the spring semester are eligible for acceptance to the MSPE 4+1 Track.
Depending on your major, additional criteria may apply:
- B.S. in Econometrics or Mathematics: Must have a minimum 3.3 GPA in major courses
- B.A. or Minor in Economics: Must have a minimum 3.3 GPA in economics courses and receive a B+ or higher in Econ 203 and 302
- B.A. or B.S. in Other Disciplines: Must have a strong mathematics and statistics background
When will I find out if I was accepted?
Decisions will be announced by email by Sunday, April 5.
Students who are accepted should meet with their undergraduate advisor to review any necessary changes to their plan of study before fall 2026 registration begins on Thursday, April 23. The MSPE Office will assist accepted students with registering for their graduate courses.
Are MSPE 4+1 students guaranteed acceptance to the MSPE program?
While the MSPE 4+1 Track does not guarantee admission to the MSPE program, we expect that students who successfully complete the three required core MSPE courses during their senior year will satisfy the other criteria for admission into the graduate program.
During the spring semester of their senior year, students in the MSPE 4+1 Track can apply for the MSPE program through the standard admission process for the Graduate College. The application materials for the MSPE program can be found here.