The curriculum for the community and economic development postbaccalaureate certificate consists of five 3-credit courses. The certificate program will deliver the knowledge and skills required to address important issues in community and economic development. Learners wishing to go on to complete a master's degree can roll these credits into Penn State's online master of professional studies in community and economic development.
The 5 core courses introduce the field and cover the following topics:
- principles of community and economic development
- community organization and decision making
- economic development and planning
- population, land use, and municipal finance
- techniques and methods of community and economic development
The delivery method for the core courses in this program is online group, which means that students progress together through each course. The courses are offered in a time frame comparable to a traditional semester schedule, with fixed start and end dates. The course content and activities are available in electronic format, and access to the Web is required in order to complete this program.
Prior to June 2007, the certificate consisted of 4 courses and a 1-credit paper. Students entering the certificate program before May 2007 may complete the certificate under either option (5 courses, or 4 courses and the paper).
Exceptional Student Support
As a Penn State World Campus student, you will have access to an outstanding team of student support and advising personnel—throughout the entire period of your studies. From researching financial aid options, to choosing the right courses to meet your goals, to overcoming technical difficulties, our staff is dedicated to helping you get the most out of your education—every step of the way.
