Program description
The Certificate in Economic Development provides a 12 hour graduate-level experience
for people working or desiring to work in the field of economic development. This
program provides a grounding in the theory and tools needed in economic development
along with the opportunity to explore other policy areas that may suit their interests
and career path.
The curriculum is structured around key policy and analysis involving economic development.
Each course prepares students to master core issues, principles, and problem-solving
approaches that can be applied to specific challenges confronting their jurisdictions
or sponsoring organizations.
Admission criteria
Admission to the certificate program requires a bachelor's degree from a regionally
accredited institution of higher education, a 3.00 overall grade point average, and
three letters of recommendation. Admission is open to qualified persons without regard
to age, physical disability, national origin, race, religion, or gender.
Selection is made based on prior academic performance, professional accomplishments,
and other indicators of the ability to successfully pursue graduate education and
a professional career in public management.
Students who do not meet the normal admission requirements, but who show an indication
of high promise, will be considered for probationary admission. The Director of the
MPA program will define probationary conditions and convey those to the student.
Students enrolling in this certificate as a part of the MPA program must also apply
for the certificate in addition to the MPA.
Required courses - 12 hours total
Required courses - 6 hours
Course(s) |
Area of Study |
Credit Hours |
PLS 774 |
Municipal Planning and Zoning |
3 hrs |
PLS 775 |
Economic Development for local and State Government |
3 hrs |
Elective courses - 6 hours
Choose 6 hours from the following courses.
Course(s) |
Area of Study |
Credit Hours |
MKT 772 |
Marketing Management |
3 hrs |
ECO 600 |
Fundamentals of Economics |
3 hrs |
PLN 671 |
Land Use Planning |
3 hrs |