Falcon Accelerated Success Track (FAST) Program (4+1) for Hospitality, Recreation and Tourism (HRT)
What is a FAST Program?
- Begin your master’s program while still completing your undergraduate degree.
- Take graduate-level courses that double-count toward both your undergraduate and graduate degrees.
- Pay undergraduate tuition for graduate courses (until you’ve met the units required for your bachelor’s degree).
- Skip the Cal State Apply master's application and the associated fees.
Our East Bay FAST programs merge existing baccalaureate and master’s degree programs in similar disciplines into a single pathway. We will double-count a specified number of units (up to 12) in both programs so you can earn your graduate degree faster and at a lower cost! Across the U.S., programs like East Bay FAST are often referred to as “4+1” or “blended” programs.
Required Documents for Application
- Meet with your academic advisor, Natalie Nelson (natalie.nelson@csueastbay.edu
) and obtain a signed Eligibility Confirmation Note. - Carefully read the Personal Statement guideline and have your statement ready.
- Resume
All three documents are required as part of the application for admission.
After the application is submitted, you will receive an email to schedule a brief interview with our Graduate Program Committee.
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- The HRT FAST program can be more affordable and faster than completing a bachelor’s and then applying and completing a master’s degree.
- Up to 12 graduate-level units may double-count between the bachelor’s and master’s degree, as predetermined by the program (REC 610, 630, 640, & 670 will double-count).
- An HRT FAST program undergraduate student can take graduate-level courses required for the master’s degree prior to completing their bachelor’s degree.
- All courses applied toward the master’s degree must lead to a program GPA of at least 3.00; this includes double-counted courses.
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Students can only apply to HRT FAST Program if they:
- Are a matriculated undergraduate student at Cal State East Bay in a state-support program (students in self-support programs are not eligible)
- Have completed at least 60, but no more than 90, program-applicable units (units that count toward your HRT degree), which typically corresponds to junior standing
- Have a minimum GPA of 2.50
- Are not a double major
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- Interested students who meet the above minimum criteria should .
- Applications are accepted during both the Fall and Spring semesters, with a deadline at the end of the 9th week of each semester.
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- Students pay undergraduate tuition when classified as an undergraduate student (typically the first 4 years)
- Students pay graduate tuition upon satisfying the requirements for the bachelor’s degree and being classified as a graduate student (typically the final year)
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- Short answer, YES!
- East Bay FAST program students must annually submit the FAFSA or CADAA with the correct student status listed (i.e., undergraduate or graduate student) to receive financial aid.
- East Bay FAST program students will have different funding allowances when classified as a graduate student vs. as an undergraduate student.
- East Bay FAST program students who transition from undergraduate to graduate status should contact the Financial Aid Office to see if adjustment paperwork is appropriate and allowable.