Community Economic Development
HERE YOU CAN.
University College of the North’s Community Economic Development two-year diploma program prepares graduates for a range of employment and self-employment opportunities, including contributing to the health of the natural environment, building on community resources and capacities, increasing community control and ownership, and stabilizing local, and community economies.
Program Overview
The Community Economic Development Diploma at the University College of the North (UCN) is a two‑year, in‑person diploma that prepares students to support and strengthen community economies. The program emphasizes building on local resources and capacities, enhancing community control and ownership, and contributing to economic and social well‑being in northern and Indigenous communities. Graduates gain the skills to work in a range of community‑focused roles that help improve economic resilience and quality of life.
Why Study Community Economic Development at UCN?
- Learn to drive positive economic change in northern and Indigenous communities.
- Gain practical skills for community development and local economic planning.
- Prepare for diverse careers in community and economic development sectors.
Career Outcomes and Community
Career Pathways
Employment opportunities for graduates may be found in:
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Northern community projects
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Sustainable development programs
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Programs supporting and conserving traditional Indigenous knowledge
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Land claims negotiation teams
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Youth development programs
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Community wellness development initiatives
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Economic development practitioner positions
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Community development roles
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First Nations and northern community administration positions
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Consulting opportunities
Alumni & Student Spotlights and Related Stories
University College of the North Graduate Earns Top Indigenous Economic Developer Award
UCN Alumni Melanie Halcrowe received her Professional Aboriginal Economic Developer (PAED) designation.
Program Schedule
| Course | Course Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| ABS.1001 | Waskawimakanwa Mecimwaci Isihtwawina | 1 |
| ART.1322 | Essentials of Business Communication | 3 |
| MGT.1010 | Introductory Financial Accounting 1 | 3 |
| MGT.1200 | Microeconomics | 3 |
| MGT.2371 | Entrepreneurial Development | 3 |
| MSC.1780 | Financial Mathematics | 3 |
| MGT.1210 | Macroeconomics | 3 |
| MGT.1220 | Comparative Political Systems | 3 |
| MGT.1300 | Marketing | 3 |
| MGT.1400 | Commercial Law | 3 |
| MGT.1849 | Spreadsheet and Database Management | 3 |
| MGT.1410 | Organizational Behaviour | 3 |
| MGT.1503 | Negotiation Theory & Practice | 1 |
Admissions
Requirements
a. English 40S, and
b. Pre-Calculus Mathematics 40S, Applied Mathematics 40S or
Essential Mathematics 40S
c. Or equivalencies of above,
d. Or mature student, see 2.01 of Academic Calendar
Application Fee
- Domestic Student Application Fee: $50 plus GST ($52.50)
- International Student Application Fee: $158 plus GST ($165.9)
Important Dates and Deadlines
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Semester Start DateSeptember 8, 2026
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Semester End DateJune 11, 2027