Certificate in Economics
Hours: 12 On-Campus Online
About
The Certificate in Economics at Fort Hays State University offers a comprehensive introduction to microeconomics and macroeconomics. This program allows students to tailor their studies to their specific interests within the field of economics, providing a flexible yet rigorous education. With only 12 credit hours required, students can quickly and effectively gain a credential that confirms their knowledge and skills in economics.
This certificate is available on campus and online, making it accessible to students nationwide. Whether you are looking to supplement your primary field of study or seeking a stand-alone credential to boost your career, the Certificate in Economics is designed to meet your needs and help you achieve your professional goals.
Why pursue a Certificate in Economics at Fort Hays State University?
Fort Hays State University's Certificate in Economics program stands out due to its flexibility and accessibility. Unlike many other programs, ours is offered on campus and online, allowing you to study from anywhere. Additionally, the program's structure allows you to focus on areas of economics that specifically interest you, ensuring a personalized learning experience.
Furthermore, our faculty are highly engaged in their fields, regularly attending conferences and publishing research to stay current with the latest economic advancements and trends. This ensures that you receive an education that is both contemporary and relevant.
Who is this program for?
The Certificate in Economics at Fort Hays State University is ideal for individuals seeking to enhance their understanding of economics, whether as a stand-alone credential or as a supplement 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
Graduates 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 problems, enhancing their problem-solving skills.
Real-World Applications
The Certificate in Economics at Fort Hays State University prepares students for practical, real-world applications in various analytically focused careers. Students develop an understanding of economic dynamics that can be applied in multiple industries by engaging with microeconomic and macroeconomic principles.
Students are encouraged to join the Economics Club to participate in research activities and collaborate on projects that mirror real-world economic challenges. This hands-on experience is invaluable in translating theoretical knowledge into practical skills.
Stay Ahead of the Curve
Staying ahead in economics requires understanding the latest trends and advancements. Our program integrates current research and contemporary economic issues into the curriculum, ensuring students are well-versed in the latest economic theories and practices.
Faculty who teach in the program are actively involved in the economics community, regularly attending conferences and contributing to academic publications. This engagement with ongoing research ensures that the material taught is up-to-date and reflects current industry standards and practices.
Hands-on Activities
The Certificate in Economics offers hands-on activities related to economic concepts, enabling students to learn and acquire knowledge for their future careers. By joining the Economics Club, students can engage in research projects that tackle real-world economic problems, offering a platform to develop and showcase their analytical skills.
Additional hands-on activities will vary based on the upper-division classes a student selects to complete the certificate; however, all classes provide opportunities to deepen their 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
The core curriculum for the Certificate in Economics includes foundational courses in microeconomics and macroeconomics, along with advanced courses that allow students to delve deeper into specific areas of interest. Elective courses include Intermediate Microeconomics, Intermediate Macroeconomics, Money and Banking, International Economics, and International Finance.
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 the 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.
Graduates of the Economics Certificate program at Fort Hays State University are equipped with valuable skills that open many career opportunities. By completing this certificate, students can validate their economic expertise to potential employers, thereby enhancing their prospects for employment opportunities.
Economics Teacher (High School Level)
The Certificate in Economics helps high school teachers meet the qualifications to teach economics at the secondary level. It enhances their understanding of economic principles while ensuring compliance with state and national standards. This qualification also boosts their confidence in teaching complex concepts, benefiting students' learning experiences.
Public Service Career
Studying economics can greatly benefit students pursuing a career in public service, as it equips them with a solid understanding of how the economy functions. This knowledge is essential for making informed decisions related to policymaking, resource allocation, and public finance. Additionally, a strong foundation in economics enables future public servants to analyze economic trends and their impacts on communities, ultimately enhancing their effectiveness in serving the public.
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 $2,369.52* (on-campus) or $3,087.96* (online)* per semester.
*Estimated cost based on 12 credit hours at the undergraduate resident/regional tuition rate ($197.46/credit hour) for on-campus courses, or the FHSU Online graduate tuition rate (257.33/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.
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.
The Certificate in Economics can be completed in one year.
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.
Yes, the Certificate in Economics program is offered entirely online, allowing students to study from anywhere.
No; however, students must complete ECON 201 (Principles of Microeconomics) and ECON 202 (Principles of Macroeconomics) before enrolling in upper-division economics courses.
Online students can access the same resources as on-campus students, including academic advising, tutoring, and technical support.
Department Information
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.
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.
The Tiger Money Mentors Program is housed in the Department of Economics, Finance, and Accounting and directed by a financial planning faculty member. This program provides free financial guidance from students you can trust. This is a group of trained, money-savvy students passionate about helping you take care of your finances. They offer one-on-one sessions to answer your financial questions on a variety of financial topics, including:
- Organizing your finances and spending
- Creating and sticking to a budget
- Developing a plan to reach your short- and long-term financial goals
- Understanding your student loans and repayment options
- Reviewing job offers and employee benefits
- Obtaining and reviewing your credit report
- And more!
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