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.

Duration:

2 Years

Format:

In Person

Certification:

Diploma

Dates:

September 8, 2026

–

June 11, 2027

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.

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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:

  • Northern community projects
  • Sustainable development programs
  • Programs supporting and conserving traditional Indigenous knowledge
  • Land claims negotiation teams
  • Youth development programs
  • Community wellness development initiatives
  • Economic development practitioner positions
  • Community development roles
  • First Nations and northern community administration positions
  • Consulting opportunities

Alumni, Student Spotlights & 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.

Read More »

Program Schedule

CourseCourse TitleCredits
ABS.1001Waskawimakanwa Mecimwaci Isihtwawina1
ART.1322Essentials of Business Communication3
MGT.1010Introductory Financial Accounting 13
MGT.1200Microeconomics3
MGT.2371Entrepreneurial Development3
MSC.1780Financial Mathematics3
MGT.1210Macroeconomics3
MGT.1220Comparative Political Systems3
MGT.1300Marketing3
MGT.1400Commercial Law3
MGT.1849Spreadsheet and Database Management3
MGT.1410Organizational Behaviour3
MGT.1503Negotiation Theory & Practice1

CourseCourse TitleCredits
ABS.2030Economics and Aboriginal Self-Government3
ART.1342Professional Development3
MGT.1422Community Research3
MGT.1504Proposal Writing and Research3
MGT.1506Community Development3
MGT.1510Contemporary Issues in Community Development3
MGT.1981Work Practicum3
MGT.2130Project Planning and Management3
MGT.2200Land Management3
MGT.2250Introduction to Tourism3
MGT.2320Aboriginal Business Law3
MGT.2400Human Resources Management3
MGT.2420Management3

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

Estimated Cost

$ 6,866.25 – $7,745.85

The Pas Cost Sheet (Year 1) ->
Thompson Cost Sheet (Year 1) ->
The Pas Cost Sheet (Year 2) ->
Thompson Cost Sheet (Year 2) ->

Application Fee

  • Domestic Student Application Fee: $52
  • International Student Application Fee: $164

Important Dates and Deadlines

Program Start Date

September 8, 2026


Program End Date

June 11, 2027