Watch video
Next information session
There are no events scheduled for this program. Please visit the link below to see all upcoming and on-demand information sessions.
All courses in this program will be delivered online (OA, OS, OR) for the Fall 2021 semester.
Learn more about our course delivery options
Overview
The Community Economic Development certificate is designed for individuals currently working in or wanting to enter the growing field of community economic development including small business development and municipal or government relations.
These practical business courses cover key topics such as partnerships between business and government, project management, writing business plans and project proposals, and communication skills. Students can develop the holistic skill set needed for local economic development in rural and urban communities.
This program is available entirely online, with some courses also available through part-time studies.
Is this the right fit for me?
The ability to work and learn independently is critical for this program. Other factors relating to student success include:
- time management skills
- analytical skills
- computer skills
Students who are engaged and take advantage of various services usually experience more success in SAIT programs.
Laddering
This certificate ladders into the SAIT Business Administration diploma, provided students meet the admission requirements for the diploma. Students continuing their education have the option to take the diploma through full-time, part-time or online studies.
Credential
Upon successful completion of this program, students will earn a SAIT Community Economic Development certificate.
Career opportunities
Graduates can pursue job opportunities in municipal government, economic development agencies, small businesses and non-profit organizations. Potential positions include:
- economic development officer
- liaison officer
- community development officer
- planning officer
- program officer
Related careers include:
- Marketing analyst
- Business development officer
Cost per course*
1.5 credit course: $262.56
3.0 credit course: $525.12
*Tuition, fees, books and supply costs are subject to change
Requirements
You will be offered admission to this program through direct entry if you meet the admission requirements and space is available.
When can you apply?
Applications are accepted year-round. Apply now!
| Classes begin | Year start date |
|---|---|
| Fall 2021 | Sept. 7, 2021 |
| Winter 2022 | Jan. 10, 2022 |
| Spring 2022 | May 9, 2022 |
Global expertise = global distinction
First-class instructors help give SAIT’s School of Business a prominent place on global list of best business schools.
Admission Requirements
Admission and Selection
Applications are accepted on an ongoing basis for this program.
Admission Requirements
All applicants, including students educated in Canada, must demonstrate English Language Proficiency prior to admission.
There are no additional entry requirements for this program.
Direct Entry: Four Step Process
Step 1: Read the program information to see the qualities needed for student success.
Step 2: Ensure that you meet all of the admission requirements listed above.
Step 3: Apply to Community Economic Development.
Step 4: Find out how to monitor your application status after you apply.
Communication during selection
Email is the primary source of communication during the selection process. Ensure your personal email account is managed appropriately to receive our emails, files and communications.
Courses
Once you have been accepted into this program, you can register for classes through mySAIT.ca.
Program outline
Looking for course descriptions and requisites? Visit the course catalogue
| Course code | Course name | Credit |
|---|---|---|
| ACCT-215 | Introductory Financial Accounting I | 3.0 |
| COMN-220 | Communication and Presentation Skills | 3.0 |
| ECON-305 | Macroeconomics | 3.0 |
| ECON-355 | Economic Development Fundamentals | 3.0 |
| ENTR-350 | Entrepreneurship | 3.0 |
| LDSH-360 | Business Leadership | 3.0 |
| MKTG-260 | Marketing Essentials | 3.0 |
| MNGT-250 | Organizational Behaviour | 3.0 |
| MNGT-321 | Project Management | 3.0 |
| MNGT-367 | Municipal Structure and Governance | 3.0 |
Progression
Students must attain a PGPA and/or a CGPA of 2.0 or better in each semester and pass the necessary prerequisite courses to progress through the program. To qualify for graduation, students must pass all courses, attain a CGPA of 2.0 or better and complete course requirements within the prescribed timelines.
Transfer options
The opportunity to advance your education through transfer to, within or from SAIT is available. Visit Transfer Options to learn more.
Costs
The following costs are based on a single 1.5 or 3.0 credit course. Additional fees including health and dental are assessed based on the course delivery and the number of courses taken at a time.
2021/22 Domestic cost per course
| Course Credits | Course cost |
|---|---|
| 1.5 | $262.56 |
| 3.0 | $525.12 |
SAIT Fees
The following fees are based on a two-semester full course load structure. Fees for part-time programs will be assessed based on the number of courses taken within a semester.
Campus athletic and recreation Fee: $183.20
Universal transit pass (UPass): N/A
Student support fee: $150
Student technology fee: $150
SAIT Students' Association (SAITSA) fee: $287.77
Books and supplies*
- Books and supplies are approximately $1,000 - $1,500 per full-time year.
- For an estimate of the costs associated with purchasing a device that meets the hardware and software requirements, see our computers and laptops page.
Find out about tuition and financial aid.
* Tuition, fees, books and supply costs are subject to change
Next steps for incoming students
Have you been accepted to this program? Here's what you'll need for your first day of classes.
Fall 2021
Orientation
Your program orientation will take place on Aug. 31. Watch your inbox for the time and location.
Learn more about our SAIT-wide orientation activities.
How to register for classes
You'll follow an open registration process to enrol in your classes. Learn how to register on our registration and schedules page.
Computers and laptops
This is a bring your own device program with a standard hardware and software requirement. See the specific requirements on our computers and laptops page.
Preparation courses
To support your success, you’ll be automatically registered in two short courses to prepare you for the academic year:
PERS 050: Student Rights and Responsibilities
This course is designed to introduce you to student rights and responsibilities at SAIT. You will learn about SAIT's rich and diverse community, become familiar with guidelines and procedures that create a safe, respectful learning experience for you, and gain practical tips for how you can engage in the SAIT community in a positive and responsible way. PRES-050 must be completed within 30 days from the start of the semester.
PREP 100: The SAIT Experience
Get tips and insider information on time management, exam preparation, effective notetaking and more through this free, online short course for new students. Plus, learn about discussion boards, online communication and submitting assignments online. Course completion is recommended by the end of your first semester.
Both courses can be accessed through Brightspace (D2L) before the first day of classes.
Required textbooks
Find your booklist on the SAIT Bookstore's website. The booklist will be available closer to the program start date.
Can’t find your program or course? The bookstore didn't receive a textbook list. Contact your program directly to determine if they’re still refining course details or if you're in luck, no textbook purchase required this term.
Contact
For any questions, or to set up a virtual advising appointment, please contact our School of Business Advising Centre.
Phone: 403.284.8485
Email: business.advising@sait.ca
Academic chair
Grace McKenna, Academic Chair
Email: grace.mckenna@sait.ca
Next steps for all students
Here's what else you'll need to do to get ready!
Next steps for accepted students
Important dates and deadlines
Find important dates applicable to all students, including your transcript and tuition payment deadlines on our Important Dates page.
Meet some of the instructors
Instructor