Syllabus - MCD 5020: Economic Development

Date: Fall 2019
Source: University of Detroit Mercy
Program: Master of Community Development
Course: MCD 5020 - Economic Development
Instructor: Ernest Zachary, Adjunct Detroit Mercy Instructor

Description

The objective of this course is to study the conditions and dynamics that historically have shaped the urban areas and to understand the means that individuals, the private sector, non-profit organizations, and all levels of government have to strengthen cities and improve the quality of life for the citizenry.

The course will rely on urban economic development theory to provide the context for understanding the resources needed and the various efforts undertaken to improve urban areas. Topics include: Principles of economic development and growth, community history and community growth potential, the importance of land, labor, capital, entrepreneurship and transportation to economic growth; the roles of the private sector and community based institutions; the importance of economic development planning and the role of data to assess proper approaches and the impact of actions; the importance of sustainability in urban areas; and the various funding sources and incentives available to urban areas.