Knowledge of economics can be useful for careers in a wide variety of fields or can serve as the first step towards more advanced academic studies. Build a solid foundation in the principles of economics and general economic theory. No previous training in economics is necessary for this certificate and it will introduce you to key concepts and theories.
By completing this certificate, you will be able to demonstrate knowledge of basic microeconomic and macroeconomic theory, and their application to various subfields of economics, including environmental economics, monetary economics, and international economics.
Once you complete this certificate, you may also be interested in taking our more advanced Certificate in Economics: Theory and Applications.
Industry and Careers
This certificate, along with the advanced Certificate in Economics: Theory and Applications, can provide you with analytical skills that are in high demand in virtually every area of business, government, and the nonprofit sector.
You may find employment in roles ranging from risk analyst in a financial institution, to data scientist in a consumer goods company, to policy analyst in a government department.
Who Should Take This Certificate?
- Individuals with no background, or a limited background, in Economics, this certificate can provide you with a foundational knowledge that may be helpful for your career or to pursue advanced studies in Economics or a related field.
- University graduates with a degree in another field but want to pursue graduate studies in economics or a related field, this certificate may help serve as a stepping stone.
- Individuals who are already working or aspiring to become employed in business, government, the nonprofit sector, or the legal system, this certificate can give you a new lens through which to view your work.
What Will You Learn?
Build a foundation in Microeconomics and Macroeconomics through the two required courses. Microeconomics includes basic concepts of supply and demand, the theory of the firm, and distribution of income, and the study of business behaviour and decision-making under various market conditions. Macroeconomics includes levels of national income, employment and prices, the business cycle, factors affecting economic growth, and international trade. It also includes a critical analysis of monetary and fiscal policies.
You can then choose two electives to meet your specific learning goals, from topics including:
- Evolution of the Global Economy
- Global Economic Issues
- Intermediate Microeconomics or Macroeconomics
- Law and Economics
- Mathematics for Economics
- The Economics of:
- Environment
- Human behaviour
- Immigration
- Sex
- Sports
Certificate Requirements
- 2 required courses
- 2 electives
- Cumulative grade point average (GPA) of 1.67+
*If you plan to pursue the Certificate in Economics: Theory and Applications, you should select CECN 189, as it is a prerequisite for the program.
Admission Criteria
Recommended:
- Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) or equivalent
- With 6 Grade 12 U credits (including English or Mathematics)
- Or With M credits
OR
- Mature student status
Awards and Financial Aid