Economics equips you with essential tools for effective policy analysis. By using theoretical models, you can simplify complex realities to identify the key factors driving policy issues and uncover potential solutions. Empirical economic analysis allows you to test hypotheses with real-world data, determining which policies work and why. These methods are crucial in addressing today’s most pressing challenges, such as understanding labor market dynamics, assessing the influence of social media on consumer behavior, designing equitable tax policies, building resilient healthcare, and fostering sustainable economic growth and development.
The Certificate in Economic Policy can be completed by all students in the Master of Public Policy, Master of International Affairs and Master of Data Science for Public Policy.
This certificate enables you to showcase your expertise in economic policy analysis, a highly sought-after skill in both the public and private sectors. You'll acquire versatile methodologies applicable to various policy issues, enhancing your problem-solving abilities. Earning this certificate not only strengthens your credentials but also expands your professional network, making you more competitive and appealing to employers across government agencies, international organizations, think tanks, and non-profits.
To earn this certificate, you must complete at least two economics topics courses that delve into specific areas of economic policy and write a master’s thesis that tackles an economic policy question or uses economic methods. The thesis does not have to be supervised by an economist, but it must meet the economic focus as outlined above.
In exceptional cases, 3 economic topics courses may be accepted in lieu of 2 courses + a master's thesis. Decisions about exceptions will be made by the faculty coordinator and the Dean of Graduate Programmes.
We will consider all topics courses that fundamentally enhance your understanding of economic analysis and its application to policy issues. Please note that lecture-based Economics I and Economics II courses do not count for the certificate.
A tentative list of Econ courses at the Hertie School can be found at the bottom of this page. Courses taken at other universities (e.g. while studying abroad on an exchange programme) will be approved upon review of the respective syllabi.
To apply, please fill out this form and upload the requested documents.
Usually, Certificates will be issued within 4 weeks of a complete application.
No, Certificates are offered on an extracurricular basis. In other words, they are not formal, accredited concentrations and do not appear on formal graduation documents.
Students can only earn one Certificate based on their studies, e.g. the Certificate in Economic Policy or the Certificate in Sustainability.
No, attempting a Certificate does not qualify students for priority course registration or Master's Thesis supervisor allocation. It is also not guaranteed that certain economics courses will be available in all semesters. The Certificate is offered as a way to acknowledge students who focus on economic policy topics in their studies, but it is not a formal degree track.
Sample Courses in Economics
Below are some examples of courses offered that are relevant for the Certificate. These courses won't always be available, but this list can give students an idea of what courses may be offered. Additional topics courses may be available, taught by our faculty or visiting scholars. Please check our course catalog or contact the department for the most up-to-date offerings. To clarify the eligibility of other courses, please contact Christian Traxler.
Explore economic strategies and challenges in developing countries to promote sustainable growth.
Analyse economic principles and policies shaping healthcare systems and outcomes.
Examine economic factors influencing crime and evaluate the effectiveness of security policies.
Study the economic dynamics of the media industry and its societal impacts.
Focus on the economics of energy markets, policy, and the transition to sustainable resources.
Investigate the structure and functioning of electricity markets and grid management.
Explore market-based mechanisms like carbon pricing to address environmental challenges.
Apply economic analysis tto environmental questions.
Learn how to design randomised controlled trials to test economic theories and inform policy.
Discuss current topics in economic policymaking.