If you are a financial advisor, a management accountant, or a professional in any other economics-related field, earning an economics certificate can be a great benefit to your career. It can also be a good entry point to careers in economics for those who are interested.
In this article, we discuss economics certificates at both the undergraduate and graduate levels. Our lists of some of the best certificates in economics feature program overviews, program tuition, and other key details to help you decide if this is the right educational path for you, and if so, which program to choose.
What Is an Economics Certificate College Program?
An economics certificate program is a non-degree postsecondary educational program that awards a certificate to those who complete all of the program requirements. Similar to a degree, a certificate is an acknowledgment that the holder possesses a certain level of knowledge and skills in a particular field.
An economics college certificate will make it easier to get a job in economics or advance your career. Earning a degree with a certificate can be easier, too, because some colleges and universities allow you to apply credits earned during your certificate program toward a bachelor’s or master’s degree program in economics or other business-related fields.
What’s the Difference Between a College Economics Certificate and Professional Certification in Economics?
The difference between a college economics certificate and professional certification in economics is that a certificate is earned by completing a foundational educational program in economics offered by a degree-granting college or university, while a certification involves being tested on your economics knowledge to confirm that you meet a standard established by a third-party certification body.
Certifications in economics usually involve ongoing training and require renewal after a year or two, while certificate programs are completed once and the credential doesn’t lose its validity.
Economics College Certificate vs Economics Certification: Key Differences
| Economics Certificate | Economics Certification |
|---|---|
| Result of an educational program in economics | Result of an industry-standard assessment process |
| Gateway to a degree in economics | No relationship to attaining higher education or a degree in economics |
| Earned by taking courses related to economics over a period of months | Earned by taking a comprehensive exam over a period of hours |
How Long Does It Take To Get an Economics Certificate at College?
It takes anywhere from a couple of months to a couple of years to get an economics certificate at college. Many economics college certificate programs allow you to learn at your own pace, which results in a wide range of completion times.
However, in general, these programs are shorter and can be completed faster than other college programs. This makes them a convenient option for busy professionals seeking career growth, who likely can complete the certificate program without having to leave their jobs.
Best Economics Certificate Undergraduate Programs
| School | Program Name | Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| Cornell University | Certificate in Business Economics | $3,000 |
| Harvard University | Certificate in Economics for Managers | $1,600-$1,750 |
| Portland State University | Certificate in Institutional Economics | $386/credit |
| University of Wisconsin-Madison | Certificate in Development Economics | $317/credit |
Best Undergraduate Economics Certificate Programs: Explained
The best undergraduate economics certificates are credentials that professionals can earn to expand their knowledge and skills in economics and advance in their careers. A certificate also makes it easy to continue on to a degree program in economics. Below we take a closer look at the programs listed above and explain briefly what you will learn in each.
This certificate program from Cornell University gives you the opportunity to explore key concepts and applications of microeconomics, which will allow you to make effective business decisions in building or supporting the foundation of an organization.
The courses in this program are developed to give you an insightful understanding of labor markets, international trade, currency markets, and competition among different players operating in an industry. You will learn to make predictions about price changes in fluctuating market conditions.
Certificate in Business Economics Program Details
- Cost: $3,000 (payment plan available)
- Length: 2.5 months
- Learning Format: Online
- Minimum Education: N/A
- Other Requirements: None
In this Harvard University program, you will gain the knowledge and skills required to build and implement successful business strategies. It is aimed at professionals who want to learn how to make informed business decisions in critical situations.
The program covers courses on developing competitive pricing strategies, evaluating market demands and trends, differentiating one’s products and services from others, and applying other economically profitable strategies to successfully penetrate and thrive in the targeted niche markets.
Certificate in Economics for Managers Details
- Cost: $1,600 to $1,750 (payment plan available)
- Length: 8 weeks
- Learning Format: Online
- Minimum Education: N/A (no special documentation required)
- Other Requirements: Minimum 18 years of age, proficiency in English, willingness to engage with fellow students throughout the course
This economics certificate focuses on the emerging parts of an economy and their impact on society and its overall economics. In this program at Portland State University, you will learn how institutions evolve and influence economic outcomes.
The curriculum of the institutional economics certificate complements what is taught in degrees in accounting, mathematics, psychology, human resources management, and supply chain or logistics management.
Certificate in Institutional Economics Details
- Cost: $386/credit (resident); $1,061/credit (non-resident)
- Length: 28 credits
- Learning Format: On campus
- Minimum Education: None
- Other Requirements: Pay the non-refundable $25 application fee
This economics certificate program is open to all undergraduate students enrolled at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. It guides students to build a foundation of analytical skills that help them better understand the problems and challenges that arise due to world poverty.
In this program, you will learn how to use economics concepts to address the issues of poverty by understanding the relationship between economic growth and population growth. The coursework covers topics that include food security, food self-sufficiency, child labor, and gender discrimination.
Certificate in Development Economics Details
- Cost: $317/credit (in state); $1,213/credit (out of state)
- Length: 15 credits
- Learning Format: Hybrid
- Minimum Education: Must be an undergraduate student currently enrolled at the University of Wisconsin-Madison
- Other Requirements: Prerequisite economics course from University of Wisconsin-Madison
Economics College Certificate Program vs Economics Associate Degree
An economics college certificate can be obtained as an add-on to an economics degree or as a stand-alone credential. Economics certificate programs are short and can often be completed in a matter of months.
An Associate Degree in Economics, on the other hand, is obtained through a two-year college program. Below is a list of factors that differentiate economics certificates from economics associate degrees.
- Program length. An economics certificate program will generally take less time to complete than an economics associate degree, with the former taking just months to complete and the latter two years. There are exceptions, however, such as when students choose to attend a self-paced program.
- Coursework. An economics college certificate provides knowledge via specific courses in the field of economics, while an economics associate degree covers additional general education and a wider range of economics courses.
- Cost. An economics college certificate requires fewer courses than an associate degree does and therefore costs less. Also, many certificates can be obtained fully online, which saves on other costs related to education as well.
Best Online Associate Degrees
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Is an Undergraduate Economics Certificate Worth It?
Yes, an undergraduate economics certificate is worth it because it provides you with a specific set of skills in the fields of microeconomics and macroeconomics, which can be helpful in enhancing your resume. It is great for those seeking fast-track career growth in the field of economics.
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Best Economics Certificate Graduate Programs
| School | Program Name | Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| Harvard Extension School | Graduates Certificate in Business Economics | $775/credit |
| Illinois Institute of Technology | Certificate in Financial Economics | $1,646/credit |
| Johns Hopkins University | Graduate Certificate in Public Health Economics | $1,270/credit |
| Purdue University | Graduate Certificate in Financial Economics | $1,019/credit |
| University of Cincinnati | Graduate Certificate in Public Economics | $930/credit |
| University of Memphis | Graduate Certificate in Business Economics | $434/credit |
| University of North Carolina-Greensboro | Graduate Certificate in Quantitative Business Economics | $417/credit |
| University of North Dakota | Graduate Certificate in Applied Economics | $511/credit |
Best Graduate Economics Certificate Programs Explained
Graduate economics certificate programs are generally designed to build upon the solid foundation in economics gained through an economics bachelor’s degree program. The credits earned in a graduate certificate program often can be transferred toward a master’s degree in an economics-related field.
Obtaining a graduate Certificate in Economics can act as a major stepping stone in your career. Look for one that suits your needs in terms of the cost, duration, and coursework. Below we’ve provided a closer look at eight of the best graduate economics certificates available.
This professional graduate certificate program from Harvard is designed to teach students how to integrate the principles of economics with other business concepts. It builds an understanding of the role of national and global economies, and how they influence commerce, government policies, and business operations around the world.
There is a focus on the current economic issues and real-world applications of modern economic principles. Students will also learn about the role transaction costs play in internal and external markets.
Graduates Certificate in Business Economics Details
- Cost: $775/credit
- Length: 4 courses
- Learning Format: Online, on campus
- Minimum Education: Bachelor’s degree
- Other Requirements: English proficiency, CRWS test, math placement test
The courses in this Illinois Institute of Technology program are focused on developing an in-depth understanding of the theories of finance. They cover a broad range of models in valuation and pricing, including the dynamic linear model.
Classes for this certificate program are held alongside the degree programs offered by the school, which allows the students to benefit from the same expert faculty. The curriculum is based on cutting-edge finance practices and technologies.
Certificate in Financial Economics Details
- Cost: $1,646/credit
- Length: 9 credits
- Learning Format: On campus
- Minimum Education: Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution with a minimum CGPA of 2.5/4.0 (or equivalent)
- Other Requirements: Minimum 2 years of related work experience, possible prerequisite coursework
This program from Johns Hopkins University is designed for public health professionals who are either just beginning their career or in the middle of their career. It gives a broad exposure to the economic principles and theories of general public health.
In this program, you will learn the skills to identify and apply economic evaluation theories to public health situations. After completing the courses, you will be able to translate economic principles into public health solutions.
Graduate Certificate in Public Health Economics Program Details
- Cost: $1,270/credit
- Length: 29 credits
- Learning Format: On campus
- Minimum Education: Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university
- Other Requirements: SOPHAS Express application, English proficiency
This graduate certificate program in financial economics from Purdue University is most suitable for those who are seeking to add statistical and economic concepts to their portfolio of skills. Credits from the certificate can be counted toward an online master’s degree.
Students primarily learn about the necessary analytic and quantitative methods used to evaluate and forecast economic outcomes. The courses included engage students in the fields of financial markets, decision theory, and quantitative analysis.
Graduate Certificate in Financial Economics Details
- Cost: $1,019/credit (in state); $1,069/credit (out of state)
- Length: 11 credits
- Learning Format: Online
- Minimum Education: Bachelor’s degree
- Other Requirements: Resume, personal statement, official transcripts
This graduate certificate program is designed to teach students the economic principles and empirical techniques that are needed to successfully hold leadership positions at non-profit organizations or the government.
The coursework builds an in-depth understanding of how the public sector operates. You will be thoroughly prepared to enter fields including public health, environmental policy, and education, among others.
Graduate Certificate in Public Economics Details
- Cost: $930/credit (in state); $1,308/credit (out of state)
- Length: 12 credits
- Learning Format: On campus
- Minimum Education: Bachelor’s degree
- Other Requirements: Academic transcripts, letter of recommendation, essay, resume
This University of Memphis program is aimed at managers seeking to learn how to make better, more informed business decisions. The courses provide valuable tools in microeconomics and macroeconomics and help students master the skills and expertise for effective global financial management.
Graduate Certificate in Business Economics Details
- Cost: $434/credit (in state); $723/credit (out of state)
- Length: 12 credits
- Learning Format: On campus, online
- Minimum Education: Bachelor’s degree from a recognized college or university
- Other Requirements: GRE or GMAT official scores, satisfactory undergraduate GPA, English language proficiency
This University of North Carolina-Greensboro graduate certificate program in quantitative business economics helps students and professionals develop highly in-demand skills such as policy evaluation, managerial economics, time series and forecasting, and evaluation of economic models for stress testing.
Graduate Certificate in Quantitative Business Economics Details
- Cost: $417/credit (in state); $1,208/credit (out of state)
- Length: 12 credits
- Learning Format: Online
- Minimum Education: Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution
- Other Requirements: One official transcript from all previous academic institutions, statement of purpose, online application, $65 application fee
In this University of North Dakota certificate program, students learn to gather economic data and apply economic theories to businesses and organizations. They gain valuable knowledge that they can use in any career in the field of economics. Students also have the option to transfer the credits earned in this program toward a master’s degree at the University of North Dakota.
Graduate Certificate in Applied Economics Details
- Cost: $511/credit
- Length: 12 credits
- Learning Format: Online, on campus
- Minimum Education: Bachelor’s degree from a recognized college or university
- Other Requirements: Undergraduate GPA of 2.75 or higher, GRE or GMAT official scores, English language proficiency
Economics Graduate Certificate Program vs Economics Master’s Degree
You can typically earn a graduate economics college certificate for a fraction of the cost of a Master’s Degree in Economics, but each should be seen as an investment in your future. Here are some key factors that differentiate an economics graduate certificate program from an economics master’s degree.
- Program length. A graduate economics certificate program typically takes less than a year to complete, while an economics master’s degree will typically take one to two years or perhaps even longer if you enroll part-time.
- Cost. A graduate economics certificate is a less expensive option than a Master’s Degree in Economics. This makes certificates especially more appealing to those who already have a number of financial responsibilities.
- Career scope. Graduate economics certificates offer a narrower scope in terms of the education they provide, which results in fewer career opportunities than the more broad education of a master’s degree provides.
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Is a Graduate Economics Certificate Worth It?
Yes, a graduate economics certificate is worth it because it will not only increase your value in your current job but also open new doors for you in your career. It can also help pave the way to a master’s degree, which further increases your career opportunities and earning potential.
Economics Certificate Program Coursework
In the sections below, we describe the typical courses that are included in undergraduate and graduate economics certificate programs. Although this is a vast field, most of the coursework in economics is related to how an economy runs and how your decision-making processes as a professional impact the internal and external organizational environment.
Principles of Microeconomics
This course introduces the fundamentals of microeconomics and microeconomic concepts, supply and demand analysis, and theories of competition and monopoly, with a focus on guiding students in welfare economics considerations.
Principles of Macroeconomics
This course focuses on the analysis of aggregate economic measures, such as national output, national income, inflation and unemployment rates, and business cycle fluctuations. It examines the external environment of a business organization and how that business’ economic strategies impact the industry and economy.
Quantitative Methods in Economics and Business
This practical course teaches students how to solve the problems that individuals and organizations face in modern economics, business studies, and finance. The course typically includes topics like constrained and unconstrained optimization, business decision making, probability in economic evaluation, and contemporary techniques of calculus.
Introduction to Financial and Managerial Economics
This course integrates financial economics concepts and theories with their application in financial decision-making for businesses. Students examine the different perspectives of financial management and relate them to the foundations of modern finance and accounting procedures.
The Economics of Emerging Markets
In this course, the focus is on topics such as booming consumer markets, a rising middle class, fast economic growth, and abundant low-cost labor. Students examine the economy of a developing nation that is becoming more engaged with global markets as time passes.
Best Online College Courses for Credit
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What Can You Do With an Economics Certificate from College?
You can use an economics certificate from college either as a gateway to a degree or as a way to strengthen your resume to get a higher-paying job in an economics-related field. An economics college certificate can put you on the fast track to getting one of the best economics jobs and careers as discussed in the section below.
Best Economics Jobs and Careers With a Certificate
| Job Role | Average Salary |
|---|---|
| Economist | $105,630 |
| Operations Research Analyst | $82,360 |
| Financial Analyst | $81,410 |
| Investment Analyst | $81,410 |
Best Economics Certificate Jobs and Careers: Explained
An economics certificate qualifies you for in-demand jobs with attractive salaries. Here are some of the best jobs you can get after completing your program, listed in order from highest to lowest average salary.
Economists use data to research and analyze the production and distribution of goods and services. They predict economic trends and offer public and private organizations solutions to help them make more effective financial decisions.
- Average Salary: $105,630
- Job Outlook: 13% from 2020 to 2030
- Required Education and Experience: Master’s degree
The typical responsibilities of an operations research analyst include identifying potential problems and offering logical solutions in areas such as healthcare, business, and logistics. An economics college certificate can help you obtain an operations research analyst role, where you will spend your time offering financial solutions based on data you have collected and analyzed.
- Average Salary: $82,360
- Job Outlook: 25% from 2020 to 2030
- Required Education and Experience: Bachelor’s degree
Financial analysts guide individuals and organizations in making decisions about how to use their financial resources in a way that helps them attain maximum profits. This includes assessing the performance of bonds, stocks, and other investment types. You can start your career in this role with an economics certificate and later complete a master’s degree in a related field for career growth.
- Average Salary: $81,410
- Job Outlook: 6% from 2020 to 2030
- Required Education and Experience: Bachelor’s degree
Investment analysts spend most of their time doing research and providing information that will help businesses and individuals make profitable decisions regarding their investments. They work closely with fund managers, stockbrokers, and other business professionals.
- Average Salary: $81,410
- Job Outlook: 6% from 2020 to 2030
- Required Education and Experience: Bachelor’s degree
Should I Also Get an Economics Certification?
Yes, you should also get an economics certification if you have the budget and time required for it. An economics certification will give you additional credentials to advance your career and prove your expertise in a particular economics subject. It will qualify you as a professional for advanced job positions that pay higher salaries.
Best Economics Certifications
- Certified Economic Developer. As a certified economic developer, you can earn an average salary of $79,000, according to PayScale. The International Economic Development Council offers this credential to promote the status and credibility of economic developers.
- Certified Chartered Economist. This certification will qualify you for membership in the American Academy of Financial Management (AAFM) Board Network and is suitable for financial analysts, economists, researchers, and anyone else in a finance-based position.
- Economic Development Finance Professional. This credential is offered by the National Development Council (NDC) to teach deal-making skills like business credit and loan packaging procedures.
- Chartered Economic Policy Analyst. This certification will prepare you for a career that involves analyzing economic policies and relations, especially with regard to the government and technological advancement.
- Certified International Tax Analyst. This certification will help you gain valuable knowledge in international taxation, which in turn will allow you to pursue career opportunities in different global locations.
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Is a College Certificate for Economics Worth It?
Yes, a college certificate for economics is worth it because it not only increases the scope of your career growth in the field of economics but also provides a gateway to pursuing a degree in economics at a lower cost and in less time.
Economics Certificates FAQ
Yes, economics classes are hard. Courses taught in economics certificate and degree programs can be as demanding as subjects like chemistry and mathematics.
Economics is better than finance because it covers a wider range of studies, providing a wider range of career opportunities as well. Economics covers both microeconomics and macroeconomics, while finance only covers microeconomics.
Adam Smith has been called the father of economics, according to the Library of Economics and Liberty. Smith was a Scottish philosopher during the 18th century who introduced the concept of gross domestic product (GDP) and the theory of compensating wage differentials.
You can start by getting an economics college certificate that you can use as a gateway to a degree in economics or a related field such as mathematics, finance, or business studies. While pursuing your degree, consider an economics certification as well to further increase your job prospects and career growth.
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