Each of the topics studied in economics – inflation, unemployment, monetary policy, globalization, markets, trade – could be pulled from any day’s headlines. In a nutshell, economics is the study of how and why we spend our resources. The “we” can be us as individuals, a business or government. Through the discipline of economics, you can cultivate life skills and a better understanding of the society and world in which we live.

AACC's Department of Economics offers foundational courses that support further study in economics, business, law, public policy and more. We also offer a certificate in Data Literacy through which students can learn to interpret and analyze data with the use of statistical software. If you wish to major in economics at a four-year institution, we can put you on that path through a Transfer Studies degree. You’ll be well-prepared by supportive faculty who are devoted to teaching and the discipline of economics.

What can you do with a certificate in data literacy?

As more and more organizations are being asked to use data for everything from compliance and quality control to identifying target markets and cost savings, it’s important to have a data-literate staff to help managers make informed business decisions. A data-literate person has the ability to identify and use data to analyze trends and anomalies, communicate what the data uncovered and recommend next steps.

Certificate holders will be able to:

• Use Microsoft Access to study and manipulate data
• Use IBM SPSS Statistics and Microsoft Excel for data analysis
• Write questions that can be answered with the help of data
• Determine what data is necessary to address a question
• Interpret the statistical significance or results in a report
• Apply results to a business or policy question to support better decision making

Roles that could be enhanced with data literacy skills include office managers, executive assistants, HR/benefits specialists, project managers and others.