Data Science and Economics

The Data Science and Economics microcredential helps you prepare or a career in economic analysis, data science, market research and consulting. With economists and data science professionals earning a median salary nearly double that of other fields, this microcredential offers a strong investment in career advancement.

You will also gain access to UAlbany’s world-class faculty for developing your knowledge and skill in data science applied to economic problems.

Completion Requirements

This six-credit microcredential program includes two undergraduate-level courses and an independent research presentation:

• AECO 320 Economic Statistics: Gain proficiency in statistical inference and regression techniques applied to real-world economic and financial datasets.
• AECO 420 Applied Econometrics: Gain proficiency in advanced regression, forecasting and causal inference methods for analyzing time-series and cross-section data.
• Poster Presentation in UAlbany Showcase: Conduct an independent research project and present your findings at the UAlbany Showcase, demonstrating professional communication and analytical skills.

Visit the Undergraduate Bulletin for course prerequisite information.

After you complete any course prerequisites, it is recommended to start with AECO 320 and AECO 420 to learn the foundation of data science in economics and then conduct supervised research for the UAlbany Showcase presentation.

Learning Objectives

Learners will be proficient in the following analytical and quantitative techniques:

• Statistical Foundations: Probability rules, conditional probability, measures of central tendency and variability
• Distributions & Sampling Theory: Binomial and normal distributions, sampling distributions, Central Limit Theorem
• Inference & Hypothesis Testing: Confidence intervals, one- and two-sample tests, correlation analysis
• Foundations of Causal Inference: Experimental design, bias detection, correlation versus causation, data validation  
• Regression & Predictive Modeling: Simple and multiple regression, dummy variables, model specification
• Advanced Econometric Methods: Fixed effects, difference-in-differences, instrumental variables, experimental analysis, regression discontinuity (RDD), logistic/probit models and time series forecasting

Eligibility & Registration

You can complete the Data Science and Economics microcredential on the way to a BA in Economics, BS in Business Economics or BS in Quantitative Economics and Data Analysis, since all courses are stackable, or else you can earn it as a stand-alone credential as a non-degree professional learner.

• Current UAlbany students: Contact your academic advisor to register for the required courses.  
• Professional learners: Apply for non-degree study to register for the required courses.  

Cost

View current tuition rates:

• Tuition & Fees for Undergraduate Students
• Tuition & Fees for International Students

Earning the Badge

Once you successfully complete all requirements, please email [email protected] to request access to the completion form to receive your Credly badge.