Economic Development Graduate Certificate

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.