Certificate in Economics

Hours: 12 On-Campus Online

About

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

Available 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 is designed to support students’ professional development and career goals.

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

The Certificate in Economics stands out for its flexibility and accessibility. Available both on campus and online, it allows students to pursue their studies from anywhere. It is structured to let students focus on the areas of economics that most interest them, creating a personalized and engaging learning experience.

Students benefit from faculty who are actively engaged in their fields, regularly participating in conferences and publishing research. This commitment ensures the education students receive is current, relevant, and informed by the latest developments in economics.

Who is this program for?

This certificate 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

Real-World Applications

The certificate 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 the gap between 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. Fort Hays State University incorporates recent research and contemporary economic issues into the 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 integrates hands-on activities that enable students to apply economic concepts and develop practical knowledge relevant to their careers. Participation in the Economics Club encourages students to engage in research projects that address real-world economic challenges, providing a valuable platform for developing and demonstrating 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 includes foundational courses in microeconomics and macroeconomics, supplemented by advanced electives that enable students to explore specialized topics.

ECON 301: Intermediate Microeconomics

This course is an intermediate-level study of the theory of household and firm behavior, examining how the market system organizes economic activity and evaluating 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 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

The Department of Economics, Finance and Accounting at FHSU equips students with the knowledge and skills to manage financial resources effectively and ethically across both public and private sectors. The department offers highly sought-after degree programs in accounting, finance, and international business and economics—each designed to prepare students for versatile and in-demand career paths.

Students benefit from career-focused internship opportunities, personalized mentoring from expert faculty, and the flexibility of fully online degree options. The curriculum covers a broad spectrum of the business world, ensuring graduates are well-prepared to navigate a competitive job market.

Additionally, the Robbins Banking Institute enhances professional development in the banking sector by offering a practical, real-time curriculum tailored for rewarding careers in finance and banking. With a strong emphasis on student success and growth, the department’s faculty provides dedicated support to help each student reach their full potential.

Student Organizations

While earning a degree remains the primary focus, college life offers much more than classroom learning. Students are encouraged to participate in extracurricular activities that foster leadership skills, deepen their understanding of their chosen careers, and provide opportunities to make a positive impact in their communities.

Accounting Club: This club provides accounting students with valuable opportunities to connect with peers, explore career paths, and prepare for professional success. The club helps members gain insight into the diverse opportunities within the accounting field and facilitates introductions to potential employers. Regular meetings often feature guest speakers, professionals with accounting degrees, who share real-world experiences and career advice.
Student Chapter of the Association of Certified Fraud Examiners (ACFE): The ACFE organization brings together students from a variety of disciplines to promote awareness, detection, and prevention of fraud in the business world.
Economics Club: The FHSU Economics Club is open to all students, regardless of major or prior knowledge of economics. Its mission is to promote interest in and understanding of economic concepts through engaging activities and discussions. A hallmark project of the club is the creation of the “Student Price Index,” a collaborative research initiative that explores FHSU students’ economic expectations. Each year, club members also have an opportunity to travel to a major U.S. city, enhancing their academic and professional development through real-world experiences.
Finance Club: The FHSU Finance Club is dedicated to supporting the professional, educational, and social development of students with an interest in finance. The club fosters meaningful connections among students, faculty, and professionals in the business and finance sectors. Through guest speakers and educational trips across the U.S., members gain valuable insights into the finance industry and explore potential career opportunities.
International Business Club: This club aims to enhance students’ understanding of global business practices and economic issues from a variety of cultural and international perspectives. Through discussions, activities, and international travel experiences, the club fosters professional, educational, and social development. Its ultimate goal is to cultivate globally minded citizen-leaders prepared to navigate and contribute to an increasingly interconnected world.

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