BA/MA in Economics

Earn two degrees. Save time. Level up your future.

The combined BA/MA in Economics program at UB is your fast track to becoming a skilled, data-driven economist. In just five years, you can earn both your Bachelor of Arts and Master of Arts in Economics—saving time and gaining a competitive edge in today’s job market.

Whether you're aiming for a career in government, the private sector or grad school, this program equips you with a strong foundation in economic theory and the hands-on tools needed to analyze real-world issues

Learn more about:

Why choose the BA/MA program at UB?

✔ Save Time: Complete both degrees in five years instead of six. You’ll start in the BA track and, if eligible, transition to MA coursework during your senior year.

✔ Get Ahead with Graduate-Level Skills: Build your credentials early with advanced training in economics, statistics and data analysis. You’ll graduate career-ready, with the option to specialize.

✔ Expand Your Network: Tap into expertise beyond the Department of Economics—like faculty from UB’s Schools of Management, Engineering, Medicine and more.

✔ Add a Certification (Optional): Earn an Advanced Certificate in Applied Economics by specializing in one of six in-demand areas, including financial economics, health services, and international economics.

How it works

Start in the standard BA in Economics track. By your junior year, if you meet GPA requirements, you can apply to the BA/MA track. Once admitted, you'll begin your graduate-level coursework.

Total credits: 135

  • 105 credits at the undergraduate level
  • 30 credits at the graduate level

You’ll need to complete:

  • At least 20 credits in undergrad economics
  • All university general education requirements
  • Five core MA courses in economics
  • Elective courses aligned with your goals
Want to switch back to the BA?

That’s okay. Just keep in mind that only 6 MA-level credits count toward the BA without special approval.

Required Courses

Here’s a sample of what you’ll study:

Core MA courses

You’ll deepen your training in both theory and data analysis with these required courses:

  • Microeconomic Theory
  • Macroeconomic Theory
  • Econometrics 1
  • Econometrics 2
  • Microeconomic Theory 2

Specialize with the Advanced Certificate in Applied Economics

Add even more value to your degree with a 15-credit certificate in one of these high-impact fields:

  • Financial Economics
  • International Economics
  • Information and Internet Economics
  • Economics of Law and Regulation
  • Economics of Health Services
  • Urban and Regional Economics

📌 Note: Some course substitutions may be allowed with approval.

Take the next step

Meet with your advisor early. Interested students should connect with both the Director of Undergraduate Studies and the Assistant Director of the MA Program by junior year to map out the best course plan.

Contact Us

For more information or to schedule a meeting, reach out to our undergraduate program team: