Understand the Economic Impacts That Drive Business

What happens to businesses when markets fluctuate? Why is it essential for industries to know how economics relates to business? In this course, you’ll hear from experts in the field. You’ll learn why firms must be able to anticipate production disruptions, consider energy and labor markets, and understand policy changes that come from the government. If you see yourself pursuing a career in business, knowledge of economics is a great place to start. 

Program Dates

Multi-length courses available throughout the year

Eligibility

For students ages 13 and up

Fees

$1495

Explore The Relationship Between Economics and Business

Get an Overview of Markets, Prices and Costs in Economics

Study economics and its importance to business. Learn how supply and demand impact prices. And uncover the many career paths related to economics.

Study Inflation’s Impact on our Economy

Delve into the Federal Reserve’s role in shaping economic conditions. Hear engaging discussions among experts, and review real-world case studies to see how money influences business decisions.

Consider the Labor Market’s Influence on Business

How does business measure the health of the labor market? See how businesses make hiring decisions, and discover the government’s effect on the labor market.

Learn About the World of Loanable Funds

How do businesses invest in growth during an economic downturn? The answer is loanable funds. Learn how businesses make fixed investment decisions that consider taxes, interest rates, and regulations.

See How Energy Supply & Demand Impact Businesses

Examine the importance of reliable energy sources and the diverse types that power our world. Consider the positives and negatives of each, and the challenges going forward.

Explore Careers That Combine Business and Economics

Topics in this course provide insights on potential careers, such as financial planner, research analyst, pricing analyst, account executive, and CFO.

How You Will Benefit

  • Be able to identify basic concepts of economics and how they relate to business.
  • Understand the ways in which economics is related to different business-related career paths.
  • Know how to assess the practical applications of economic theories in real-world business situations.
  • Be able to describe the role and impacts of economic policy on business decisions and outcomes.
  • Earn a Certificate of Completion from Rice University.

Teenage boy working on a computer

Three Learning Advantages Designed for You

Capstone Project

Use what you learned in each module to create a presentation covering the economic situation known as stagflation. You will create policies that could help improve economic welfare in a failing economy. Address issues such as: 

  • High unemployment and high inflation.
  • Inequality among groups of people in spite of social welfare programs.

Mentoring

You’ll receive guidance from a mentor who can support you and deepen your learning experience. You can expect:

  • Encouragement and direction on all assignments. 
  • Inspiration, motivation, and confidence to help you excel in your studies. 
  • Brainstorming and ideation to help you prepare for your capstone project.

Flexible Learning

  • 100% online learning that works with your schedule.
  • Flexible format: you’ll learn through video lectures that allow you to tune in anytime that works for you.
  • 20-30 hours of total instruction and course work, 
  • Tech-forward interactions, including engaging multimedia, real-life simulations, and curated assignments.
  • Guidance and support from mentors.

Apply Now for the Next Available Course

May 19 - June 2

Length: 2 weeks

Cost: $1,495.00

Application Deadline: Sunday, May 12, 2024

June 2 - June 16

Length: 2 weeks

Cost: $1,495.00

Application Deadline: Sunday, May 26, 2024

June 9 - June 23

Length: 2 weeks

Cost: $1,495.00

Application Deadline: Sunday, June 2, 2024

All course options have the same educational content, learning materials, and number of assignments. We are offering a condensed version of the course in order to accommodate students’ individual schedules.

James DeNicco, Ph.D.

Course Designed by Rice University Faculty

James DeNicco, Ph.D.

Director of the Principles of Economics Program and a Senior Lecturer

James DeNicco, Ph.D., is the director of the principles of economics program and a senior lecturer at Rice University. He earned his Ph.D. in economics from Drexel University, where his primary concentration was in macroeconomics and secondary in industrial organization. 

DeNicco has a real passion for teaching economics going back to his first time in the classroom in 2010 during graduate school when he was awarded the “Outstanding Ph.D. Instructor” for the Lebow College of Business.

Want to Know More?

Sign up for more information and we’ll be in touch.

Admissions

Our application process is easy. You can expect a prompt decision.

Frequently Asked Questions

How will you be graded? What are assignments like? How much time do you have to turn around a project? When do you find out if you’re admitted? Find answers to your questions here.

Scholarships

We offer need-based scholarships in each cohort to students exhibiting high potential and an inability to pay full tuition. If you would like to be considered for a scholarship but you:

  • Haven’t applied to the program, complete your application now. The scholarship application is included.
  • Applied to the program and didn’t fill out a scholarship request, resume your application and click “Apply for Scholarship”.
  • Are unsure about whether or not you applied for a scholarship, reach out to us at support@precollege.rice.edu for assistance.