Certificate in Economics

Hours: 12 On-Campus Online

About

The Certificate in Economics at Fort Hays State University provides a comprehensive introduction to both microeconomics and macroeconomics. This flexible certificate allows students to customize their studies to align with their specific interests within the field. Requiring only 12 credit hours, the certificate offers an efficient way to validate economic knowledge and skills.

Available both on campus and online, the certificate is accessible to students nationwide. Whether intended to complement a primary field of study or serve as a stand-alone credential, the Certificate in Economics is designed to support students’ career advancement and professional goals.

Why pursue a Certificate in Economics at Fort Hays State University?

FHSU’s Certificate in Economics is distinguished by its flexibility and accessibility. Offered both on campus and online, it enables students to study from any location. This certificate’s design allows students to focus on areas of economics that align with their interests, providing a personalized learning experience.

Additionally, the faculty are actively engaged in their fields, regularly participating in conferences and publishing research to stay current with the latest economic developments. This commitment ensures students receive an education that is both up-to-date and relevant.

Who is this program for?

Our Certificate in Economics is ideal for individuals looking to deepen their understanding of economics, whether as a stand-alone credential or as a complement to their primary field of study.

Non-degree seekers looking to enhance their knowledge of economics
Professionals seeking to supplement their primary field of study
Students interested in analytically focused careers
Individuals looking to gain a stand-alone credential in economics
Those interested in understanding economic policy and its applications

Learning Outcomes

The Certificate in Economics program introduces students to both microeconomics and macroeconomics, providing a credential that validates their economic knowledge to a potential employer.

Critical Understanding of Economic Principles

Students will be exposed to microeconomic and macroeconomic theories and their applications.

Analytical Skills

Students will develop the ability to analyze and interpret economic data, enabling them to make informed decisions.

Economic Problem Solving

Students can apply economic theories to solve real-world challenges, enhancing their problem-solving skills.

Real-World Applications

The Certificate in Economics prepares students for practical, analytically focused careers by developing a strong understanding of microeconomic and macroeconomic principles applicable across various industries.

Students are also encouraged to join the Economics Club, where they engage in research and collaborative projects that address real-world economic challenges. This hands-on experience helps bridge theory and practice, enhancing their professional skills.

Stay Ahead of the Curve

Staying current in economics requires a strong grasp of emerging trends and developments. The certificate incorporates recent research and contemporary economic issues into its curriculum, ensuring students are knowledgeable about the latest theories and practices. Faculty members are actively engaged in the economics community, regularly attending conferences and contributing to scholarly publications. Their involvement guarantees that the coursework remains up-to-date and aligned with industry standards.

Hands-on Activities

The Certificate in Economics incorporates hands-on activities that help students apply economic concepts and build practical knowledge for their careers. Participation in the Economics Club allows students to engage in research projects addressing real-world economic challenges, providing a valuable platform to develop and demonstrate their analytical skills. While specific activities vary depending on the upper-division courses chosen to complete the certificate, all classes offer opportunities to deepen understanding of economic policies and regulations.

What You’ll Learn:

Microeconomic principles
Macroeconomic principles
Applied economic analysis
Economic policy evaluation

How You’ll Learn:

Online assignments and readings
Interactive discussion forums
Reinforce understanding and master course objectives
Assessments to measure comprehension of course material

Courses

The core curriculum of the Certificate in Economics includes foundational courses in microeconomics and macroeconomics, supplemented by advanced electives that enable students to explore specialized topics. Some courses in the certificate include:

ECON 301: Intermediate Microeconomics

This course is an intermediate-level study of the theory of household and firm behavior. A study of how the market system organizes economic activity and an evaluation of its performance.

ECON 302: Intermediate Macroeconomics

This course is an intermediate-level study of theories of aggregate consumption, investment, net export, and government expenditures; determination of national output, employment, price level, interest, and exchange rates; derivation of aggregate demand and supply; implications of classical, Keynesian, supply-driven, rational expectations and real business cycle models; examination of empirical evidence.

ECON 640: Money and Banking

In this course, students examine the institutional setting which facilitates the creation and transfer of money between individuals, firms, and governments, how the supply and demand for money affect and is affected by national output, employment, prices, interest, and exchange rates; derivation of aggregate demand using Hicks' IS-LM model; theories and evidence of fiscal and monetary policy effectiveness in an open economy.

Discover the full Certificate in Economics course listing by visiting the Academic Catalog.

Career Prospects

Students who complete the Certificate in Economics gain valuable skills that enhance their career opportunities across a range of industries. The certificate serves as a strong credential, demonstrating their economic knowledge to potential employers and strengthening their competitiveness in the job market.

Economics Teacher (High School Level)

The Certificate in Economics helps high school teachers qualify to teach economics by deepening their understanding of key principles and aligning with state and national standards. It also builds confidence in delivering complex concepts, enhancing student learning outcomes.

Public Service Career

The Certificate in Economics benefits students pursuing public service by providing a solid understanding of economic systems. This knowledge supports informed decision-making in policymaking, budgeting, and resource allocation, while also helping future public servants analyze trends and assess their impact on communities.

The Best Value in Higher Education Anywhere

Fort Hays State University prides itself on quality education at an affordable price. Students in this program can expect to pay approximately $2,444.76* (on-campus) or $3,180.60* (online) per semester.

*Estimated cost based on 12 credit hours at the Undergrad resident/regional tuition rate ($203.73/credit hour) for on-campus courses, or the FHSU Online Undergrad tuition rate (265.05/credit hour) for online courses. Actual price may vary depending on course load and location. Tuition and Fees are subject to change as they are approved by the Kansas Board of Regents each year.

Ready for the next step?

Our faculty would be excited to talk to you about how our department programs can help you explore your interests and prepare you for a variety of rewarding careers.

Apply

Related Programs

Fort Hays State University offers a range of programs that complement the Certificate in Economics, providing students with additional opportunities to expand their knowledge and skills.

FAQ

How long does it take to complete the certificate?

The Certificate in Economics can be completed in one year.

What are the benefits of completing this certificate?

The certificate enhances your understanding of economic principles, making you more competitive in analytically focused careers. It can also serve as a stand-alone credential or a supplement to your primary field of study.

Is the certificate offered online?

Yes, the Certificate in Economics is offered entirely online, allowing students to study from anywhere.

Are there any prerequisites for the certificate?

No; however, students must complete ECON 201 (Principles of Microeconomics) and ECON 202 (Principles of Macroeconomics) before enrolling in upper-division economics courses.

What kind of support is available for online students?

Online students can access the same resources as on-campus students, including academic advising, tutoring, and technical support.

Information about the Department of Economics, Finance, and Accounting

FHSU’s Department of Economics, Finance, and Accounting provides expertise in effectively and ethically managing money in both public and private sectors for a highly versatile, in-demand career path. Our department provides highly sought-after degrees in accounting, finance, and international business and economics. These programs are backed by career-centered internship opportunities, in-depth mentoring by faculty and staff, and flexible online degrees. Our programs prepare students for in-demand jobs, with courses that span the entire business landscape. The Robbins Banking Institute further enhances career preparation in the area of banking, offering a practical, real-time curriculum for rewarding careers. Our faculty, who are experts in their field and student-focused, support students to maximize individual growth.

Student Organizations

While earning your degree is your primary goal, college offers much more than just attending classes. Get involved in extracurricular activities that help you develop leadership skills, learn more about your chosen career, and make a difference in your community.

Accounting Club: This club offers a valuable opportunity for accounting students to connect with peers and prepare for their future careers. It aims to help members explore the various opportunities available in the field of accounting and introduce them to potential employers. Meetings frequently feature guest speakers who hold accounting degrees and are actively working in the profession.
Student Chapter of the Association of Certified Fraud Examiners: The ACFE organization brings together students from many disciplines to promote the detection and prevention of fraud in business.
Economics Club: The FHSU Economics Club is available to all students regardless of their major or knowledge of economics with the goal of promoting the study of and interest in economics. The signature activity of the club is to create a “Student Price Index” through a collaborative research project on FHSU student economic expectations. The club members typically take a trip to a major city in the U.S. every year.
Finance Club: The FHSU Finance Club strives to assist in the professional, educational, and social development of college students interested in finance. The club also encourages interaction between the business sector, faculty, and students at FHSU. As part of club operations, they bring in speakers and take trips around the U.S. to learn more about the finance field.
International Business Club: This club strives to improve students’ awareness and understanding of global business practices and economic issues. These issues are explored from diverse perspectives. Ultimately, the club aims to develop global citizen-leaders by enhancing students’ professional, educational, and social development through its discussions, activities, and international travel experiences.

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