About the Professional Certificate Program
Proficiency in Community Economic Development
Earning a Professional Certificate
Program Courses
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Credits
Comprehensive community revitalization must include strategies to improve the local economy. This means creating an environment that supports the growth of neighborhood businesses and provides opportunities for entrepreneurs. Economic revitalization also requires the development of facilities, infrastructure and commercial centers that foster a sense of place and generate jobs and revenues for the community.
The NeighborWorks® Training Institute has designed a professional certificate program that equips participants with the skills and knowledge to carry out successful economic development initiatives. Community Economic Development Professional Certificate candidates develop the capacity to effectively use available financial resources and technical tools to invigorate local businesses, revitalize commercial centers and energize a neighborhood economy.
About the Professional Certificate Program
Education with Results
The Professional Certificate Program curriculum lays the foundation for non-housing strategies aimed primarily at increasing the economic benefit of low- and moderate-income communities and other disadvantaged populations. Program courses build the capacity of participants to design and implement successful initiatives that provide community economic benefits such as:
- Increased income levels of community residents by improving their skills and providing more jobs;
- Lower costs and better access to basic goods and services;
- An improved infrastructure and better community facilities;
- A more vibrant, active and innovative business environment; and
- A safer and more attractive neighborhood.
Teaching methodologies emphasize a hands-on approach combining case studies, site visits, small-group exercises and other participatory learning methods.
Candidates
The Professional Certificate Program is designed to be a useful training opportunity for people involved in program design and implementation as well as for funders and policy makers. Courses are appropriate for directors and program staff of:
- Community-based organizations;
- Financial institutions;
- Foundations and other funders;
- Intermediaries; and
- Local governments.
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Proficiency in Community Economic Development
Professional Certificate Program participants gain an understanding of both the theory and practice of various community economic development strategies. Completing the required coursework to earn the Community Economic Development Professional Certificate will enable you to:
- Apply community economic development theory;
- Use data to assess your local economy and evaluate potential projects;
- Understand the commercial real estate development process and its key players;
- Evaluate the financial feasibility of real estate development projects;
- Make the case for a mixed-use project before your board, financing partners and City Council;
- Create an effective revitalization program for your business district;
- Develop initiatives to help local businesses become successful; and
- Design and administer a loan portfolio for small business finance.
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Earning a Professional Certificate
Professional Certificates in Community Economic Development are awarded to individuals who successfully complete five required courses, three electives and a final praxis assignment. Candidates must pass the tests for the applicable required courses. It is possible to complete program requirements in as few as three institutes and, with prior approval by training division staff, candidates may receive credit for relevant courses taken no more than two years prior to enrollment in the Professional Certificate Program.
Program participants have the option of taking required
course tests online rather than on paper. Learn
more about online testing for Program of Study courses.
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Program Courses
Complete five required courses and three course electives and receive your Professional Certificate in Community Economic
Development.
Required Courses:
Elective Courses:
*Both ED250 and ED270 may be substituted for one required course or two elective courses.
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