This first unit lays the groundwork for understanding key economic concepts and their real-world implications. It begins with an exploration of economics as an applied theory, focusing on the importance of considering both immediate and long-term consequences of policies. Students then delve into the role of businesses, learning how they provide goods, services, and employment to improve the standard of living and quality of life. The unit also examines the factors of production—labor, capital, natural resources, and technology—and their significance in creating value. A discussion on Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) and Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles highlights how companies can balance profitability with ethical practices and sustainability. By the end of this unit, students are encouraged to reflect on how these economic principles shape the quality of life and influence environmental ethics.

This second unit focuses on understanding the relationship between human activity and the environment, emphasizing the importance of environmental and social sustainability. Students start by exploring biodiversity, including its genetic, species, and habitat dimensions, and why it is critical for ecosystem resilience. The "Tragedy of the Commons" is introduced as a framework for examining overpopulation, pollution, and resource depletion. Lessons on population growth and its impact on carrying capacity and climate change further illustrate the modern and historic challenges of sustainability. The history and ongoing effects of pollution, from industrialization to modern environmental disasters, provide a lens for understanding humanity's impact on air and water quality, as well as biodiversity. Students then connect these concepts to real-world challenges through reflection activities and brainstorm solutions to create more sustainable futures.

This unit emphasizes applying the concepts introduced in the previous units to real-world challenges while creating materials useful beyond the course. Students explore systems thinking to understand complex interconnections that are not apparent at first glance and conduct SWOT analyses of industries or businesses to express this expertise. The final project prompts students to craft essays on topics like ESG, sustainability challenges, or systems analysis, which can double as standout pieces for college applications, interviews, or research projects. By the end of this certificate program, students gain critical problem-solving skills and professional-grade work that highlights their ability to think strategically and make informed decisions.