Economic Development (B.A.) with Public Policy Concentration

Program Overview

This major is for students who want to make a difference in the world through a discipline with an applied focus. Economic Development is a field within the discipline of economics that focuses on bringing economic growth and a higher quality of life at both the community level as well as the macro society level. Students with a major in Economic Development will have the analytical and quantitative tools and foundation necessary for careers in microfinance, impact investing, project management, program planning and budgeting, business development, or policy creation.

Program Learning Outcomes

Graduates from Messiah’s Economic Development program can:

1. Demonstrate mastery of knowledge in:
   1. Market capitalism and how it compares to other economic systems
   2. The function of the market system, including variations on market structure, cost analysis, the derivation of the supply and the demand curve
   3. Macroeconomic stabilization policy
   4. Neoclassical vs. Keynesian approaches to economic policy
2. Analyze and use economic data
3. Use quantitative tools in business decision-making
4. Recognize and appreciate the many areas in which economists serve, i.e. the financial sector, government policy-making, and research
5. Apply foundational content related the Common Professional Component.
6. Apply marketing concepts, strategies and tactics.
7. Develop a comprehensive corporate financial analysis report.
8. Articulate their awareness of their self-identity and vocational calling.
9. Articulate the importance of Christian principles, ethics, personal and company values, and socially responsible business practices.

Business concentration graduates can also apply principles related to project management, marketing, and financing to prepare a complete and fundable business plan.

Public Policy concentration graduates can also Explain the impact of global interactions and identify the significance of different cultural and political structures.

Sustainability Studies concentration graduates can also Explain foundational content, practices and philosophical and ethical assumptions of Sustainability.

Major Requirements

Complete the following for your major:

Three credits from the following:

Three credits from the following:

Three credits from the following:

Zero to three credits from the following:

Three credits from the following:

Public Policy Concentration (18 credits)

Three credits from the following:

Three credits from the following:1

QuEST Requirements