Economics of public policy
Certificate, undergraduate
Policy meets economics
In this certificate program, you'll explore how economic theory shapes public policy, with a focus on promoting both efficiency and equity. You'll examine regulatory systems at the local, state and national levels, and have the option to concentrate on areas like regional economic development, taxation and government spending, antitrust policy and labor market dynamics.
Learning to assess the socioeconomic contributions of firms within a regional economy will help you understand their role in driving local growth. You’ll also apply economic models to real-world labor market issues, such as hiring decisions, wage structures and immigration. Additionally, you’ll use economic reasoning to tackle public sector challenges, including public good provision, managing externalities and designing fair and effective tax policies.
Overview
Rethink regulation
Degree fit
This program will be a good fit if you:
- Want to deepen your understanding of how economic principles influence public policy decisions
- Are aiming for a career in government, nonprofit, public administration, urban planning or policy analysis, where strong economic analytical skills are increasingly valued
- Enjoy working with data, numbers and analytical models to evaluate the outcomes and efficiency of various policy solutions
- Seek to gain a credential that complements majors like political science, public policy, business or environmental studies
- Are interested in graduate study and want a solid foundation in economics and statistics to boost readiness and competitiveness
Career outcomes
Current job openings
1,097 in ID, WA, OR, MT and HIPotential careers and mid-career salaries
- Climate Change Analysts
$85,618 - Statisticians
$98,792 - Legislators
$74,467 - Political Scientists
$129,576 - Economists • Environmental Economists
$108,753
* Career data provided by Lightcast.
Financial aid and scholarship opportunities
Financial aid
U of I’s certificate programs are not eligible for financial aid or scholarships on their own. However, students enrolled in a bachelor's or associate degree program may apply their financial aid and scholarships toward a certificate if they are pursuing both simultaneously.
For more information or to explore funding options, contact the Financial Aid Office at finaid@uidaho.edu or call 208-885-6312.
Clubs and involvement opportunities
As a College of Business and Economics student, you have many hands-on learning opportunities to ensure your readiness for the real business world. Our experiential learning programs give you practical experience and business know-how that will set you apart.
Join an interactive program:
Student clubs
You can also participate in a range of clubs on campus and in CBE:
Application information
Admission criteria for undergraduate certificates are the same as those for U of I undergraduate degree programs. View our admission requirements to learn more.
Undergraduate certificate application process
Students interested in adding a certificate to their bachelor’s or associate degree program should speak with their academic advisor.
Students interested in earning an undergraduate certificate as a standalone program should contact the Admissions Office at 208-885-6326 for information on how to apply.