Academics

BA in Economic Development

Undergraduate Economic Development

The primary goal of the Economic Development program is to provide students with a firm, evidence-based grounding in economic development principles and public policy issues.  In gaining this critical knowledge individuals will be better equipped to address the various issues and problems they will encounter in their economic development professions.  The curriculum provides a direct path for degree completion in a timely fashion through a rigorous course of study.

The goals and objectives of the program are operationalized in the following ways:

Public Policy Issues
Grounding in public policy provides students with an understanding of the mechanisms through which government can affect business function, location, access to financial resources, and sustainable business practices. These courses are BUS 351, UST 424, and UST 436.

Evidence Basis
Courses that assist in meeting this goal develop skills for identifying problems, and collecting and analyzing data. See ACT 221, ACT 222, UST 425, UST 434, and UST 479.

Economic Development Principles
Grounding in economic development principles provides students with knowledge and skills related to the context in which government acts, i.e., the function of the market system, the internal operation of business, and their needs.  See UST 300, UST 301, MKT 301, OSM 311, MGT 321, AND MKT 441.

The Advanced Senior Seminar (UST 489) integrates these three goal areas.

Graduates of the program will have a strong foundation in evidence-based economic development policy, including theory, analytical tools, finance, process skills, and community development.

The degree is appropriate preparation for those wishing to pursue advanced degrees in economic development, urban studies, or public administration, in addition to those currently employed by the region’s 600 economic development organizations.

Internship opportunities are available to all students; scholarships are available to qualified students; students with substantial prior learning experience may apply for credit through the Assessment and Accreditation of Prior Learning Experience program. Opportunities to participate in small seminar groups, research projects, and online courses are available. Students should consult their advisers for assistance in planning coursework.

Career Information

Maxine Goodman Levin School of Urban Affairs graduates are employed in the public, private, and nonprofit sectors. Many of our graduates pursue careers in:

  • Community Development
  • Data Analysis
  • Budget Manager
  • Project Coordinator
  • Site Location Analyst
  • Financial Administration
  • Real Estate Development
  • Entrepreneurship
  • Commerce International
  • Business Development
  • Workforce Development
  • Economic Development Specialist
Contact Information

Undergraduate Program Director: Win Weizer
Email: w.weizer@csuohio.edu

Public Affairs Student Services Center
Telephone: (216) 687-3884 / E-mail: passc@csuohio.edu