Local Economic Development, Graduate Certificate

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Graduate Certificate

Program Type

Total Credits

12

Affordability

Private School Education At State School Prices

Why Study Local Economic Development?

The local economic development certificate program is ideal for current professionals seeking to update their skills or stand out in a competitive job market with a valuable credential and specialized knowledge of one of local government’s most vital functions—economic development. The program covers key topics such as government-business partnerships, citizen involvement, and land use planning, providing a strong foundation for leadership in community growth. The four courses in Park University’s Graduate Certificate in Local Economic Development fully apply to the MPA program’s Local Economic Development concentration, making it a convenient and efficient path toward a graduate degree.

What You’ll Learn

  • The local economic development certificate will equip you to analyze historical trends in local economic development and understand the historical reasons for local government involvement in economic initiatives in the U.S.
  • You will be prepared to evaluate both past and present economic development approaches by examining their costs and benefits for communities, citizens, leaders, and other stakeholders.
  • Throughout the certificate in economic development, you will appraise the role and effectiveness of public-private partnerships and intergovernmental relationships in shaping successful local economic development outcomes.
  • Economic development courses examine how local economic development policies can address or impact economic and social justice within communities.
  • The economic development certificate program will enable you to assess the effectiveness of local growth management strategies, explore the link between land use, population geography, and local economic development, and evaluate how land use changes affect local revenues and expenditures.

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Dr. James Vanderleeuw


Professor of Public Administration
james.vanderleeuw@park.edu

Dr. Susan Keim


Associate Professor of Public Administration
skeim@park.edu

Tuition & Fees

Park University offers a transparent and student-focused approach to tuition and financial aid. Our tuition structure is designed to be competitive and manageable, and our financial aid counselors are available to guide you through every step of the process. From understanding your cost breakdown to exploring funding options, we ensure that financial planning is clear, personalized, and aligned with your educational journey.

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Admission Requirements

Park University’s graduate certificate programs are designed for professionals looking to deepen their expertise. To apply, you’ll need a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution and a minimum GPA of 2.75. You can pursue a certificate on its own or alongside a graduate degree—with your advisor’s approval. Keep in mind that certificate admission doesn’t automatically grant entry to a full graduate program. To earn the certificate, you’ll need to maintain a 3.0 GPA and complete 75% of the program coursework at Park to meet the residency requirements.

Visit Admissions Policies and Procedures to learn more about admission requirements at Park University.

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Local Economic Development Career & Future Opportunities

City/County Manager

A city or county manager is responsible for ensuring the efficient day-to-day operations of local government by overseeing city services, managing the budget, and supervising department heads. They enforce laws and policies, represent the city to the public, handle resident concerns, and lead special projects directed by the city or county council.

City/County Economic Development Director

A city or county economic development director plans, leads, and manages economic development initiatives and revitalization efforts. They oversee the economic development budget and recommend policies, infrastructure improvements, marketing strategies, business recruitment, and development negotiations to promote local growth.

Urban/Regional Planner

An urban or regional planner develops land use plans and programs to guide the growth and development of cities and counties. They meet with stakeholders, analyze data, evaluate development proposals, and make recommendations based on zoning laws, building codes, and environmental regulations.

Local Government Service

Working for a city or county government typically involves managing public services, implementing policies, and coordinating various departments to meet community needs. These roles often require engaging with residents, overseeing budgets, and ensuring local laws and regulations are followed to keep the community running smoothly.

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*General salary and employment outcomes vary by geographic area, previous work experience, education and opportunities for employment that are outside of Park University’s Control. The labor market and average salary range can be explored further at the U.S. Bureau of Labor and Statistics.

FAQs: Local Economic Development Graduate Certificate

Yes, Park University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, and its Local Economic Development Certificate aligns with professional standards recognized by organizations such as the International Economic Development Council (IEDC). This recognition ensures the credential is respected by employers and relevant for those pursuing Certified Economic Developer (CEcD) pathways.

Absolutely. Park University’s economic development certificate program is offered in a flexible online format, making it ideal for working professionals in public policy, business retention, and community planning. The asynchronous structure allows students to complete economic development courses online around their schedules without compromising career responsibilities.

Students will build expertise in areas such as entrepreneurship, economic recovery strategies, public-private partnerships, and economic development research. These skills are essential for professionals in the field of economic development aiming to support local business growth, attract investment, and lead community revitalization efforts.

Unlike some programs that require in-person attendance or lengthy capstone projects, Park University’s certificate offers a streamlined, online curriculum focused on actionable knowledge. It’s designed for local government officials, nonprofit leaders, and economic development practitioners seeking immediate impact in their communities.

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Park University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Park University is a private, non-profit, institution of higher learning since 1875.