What is Economics?
Colorado offers a range of top-tier online economics bachelor's degree programs for students looking to enhance their career prospects in business and economics. In addition to an undergraduate degree, you may find a graduate economics degree program with online courses or programs. These programs can provide flexibility and convenience for individuals who cannot attend traditional on-campus classes. By earning an economics degree in Colorado, you can gain valuable knowledge and skills in the field of economics, opening numerous career opportunities in various industries. This article will explore the best online economics degrees available in Colorado and provide insights into the value of a Colorado economics degree, the unique features of economics programs in the state, and the thriving cities in Colorado for economics graduates.
Undergraduate students interested in economics majors can also find specializations and elective courses beyond core courses in fields like monetary economics, labor economics or labor statistics, regional economics, economic development, managerial economics, economic history, international relations, business statistics, public economics. Different colleges will offer different specializations, so before you sign up for the first classes at Colorado State University, be sure to look around at what else is available. Those looking to take an online economics bachelor's degree program might even consider options like Eastern Oregon University, Eastern New Mexico University, Fort Hays State University, Arizona State University, Utah State University, Oregon State University, Empire State College, and more.
Featured Online Programs
Top Ranked Campus & Online Economics Programs in Colorado
Colorado College
Score: 80.99
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $67,932
- Out-of-State:$67,932
- Net Price: $33,178
- Acceptance Rate: 16%
- Retention Rate: 91%
- Graduation Rate: 86%
- Total Enrollment: 2,203
- Undergrad Students: 2,180
- Graduate Students: 23
- Grads Salary: $73,000
- Student-to-faculty: 10:1
Regis University
Score: 80.29
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $43,980
- Out-of-State:$43,980
- Net Price: $26,377
- Acceptance Rate: 76%
- Retention Rate: 72%
- Graduation Rate: 67%
- Total Enrollment: 4,668
- Undergrad Students: 2,398
- Graduate Students: 2,270
- Grads Salary: $89,000
- Student-to-faculty: 9:1
University of Colorado Boulder
Score: 76.72
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $16,430
- Out-of-State:$41,943
- Net Price: $21,836
- Acceptance Rate: 81%
- Retention Rate: 88%
- Graduation Rate: 75%
- Total Enrollment: 39,585
- Undergrad Students: 31,034
- Graduate Students: 8,551
- Grads Salary: $76,000
- Student-to-faculty: 18:1
Colorado State University-Fort Collins
Score: 76.51
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $12,896
- Out-of-State:$33,751
- Net Price: $16,926
- Acceptance Rate: 91%
- Retention Rate: 86%
- Graduation Rate: 67%
- Total Enrollment: 33,403
- Undergrad Students: 25,777
- Graduate Students: 7,626
- Grads Salary: $77,000
- Student-to-faculty: 17:1
University of Denver
Score: 72.97
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $59,340
- Out-of-State:$59,340
- Net Price: $42,423
- Acceptance Rate: 78%
- Retention Rate: 88%
- Graduation Rate: 77%
- Total Enrollment: 13,734
- Undergrad Students: 6,151
- Graduate Students: 7,583
- Grads Salary: $77,000
- Student-to-faculty: 8:1
University of Colorado Denver
Score: 69.83
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $10,017
- Out-of-State:$28,209
- Net Price: $16,079
- Acceptance Rate: 75%
- Retention Rate: 70%
- Graduation Rate: 44%
- Total Enrollment: 23,744
- Undergrad Students: 14,055
- Graduate Students: 9,689
- Grads Salary: $78,000
- Student-to-faculty: 17:1
University of Northern Colorado
Score: 68.62
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $12,010
- Out-of-State:$26,204
- Net Price: $18,310
- Acceptance Rate: 79%
- Retention Rate: 75%
- Graduation Rate: 52%
- Total Enrollment: 9,380
- Undergrad Students: 6,728
- Graduate Students: 2,652
- Grads Salary: $69,000
- Student-to-faculty: 14:1
University of Colorado Colorado Springs
Score: 67.2
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $9,712
- Out-of-State:$20,492
- Net Price: $16,990
- Acceptance Rate: 85%
- Retention Rate: 67%
- Graduation Rate: 43%
- Total Enrollment: 11,431
- Undergrad Students: 9,540
- Graduate Students: 1,891
- Grads Salary: $74,000
- Student-to-faculty: 15:1
Metropolitan State University of Denver
Score: 63.36
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $10,780
- Out-of-State:$29,503
- Net Price: $14,805
- Acceptance Rate: 98%
- Retention Rate: 63%
- Graduation Rate: 29%
- Total Enrollment: 16,995
- Undergrad Students: 15,848
- Graduate Students: 1,147
- Grads Salary: $76,000
- Student-to-faculty: 16:1
Western Colorado University
Score: 62.5
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $11,083
- Out-of-State:$23,683
- Net Price: $16,672
- Acceptance Rate: 92%
- Retention Rate: 77%
- Graduation Rate: 47%
- Total Enrollment: 3,548
- Undergrad Students: 3,095
- Graduate Students: 453
- Grads Salary: $60,000
- Student-to-faculty: 16:1
Colorado State University Pueblo
Score: 62.48
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $9,401
- Out-of-State:$17,242
- Net Price: $13,033
- Acceptance Rate: 99%
- Retention Rate: 62%
- Graduation Rate: 35%
- Total Enrollment: 6,617
- Undergrad Students: 4,772
- Graduate Students: 1,845
- Grads Salary: $68,000
- Student-to-faculty: 15:1
Fort Lewis College
Score: 61.76
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $9,670
- Out-of-State:$20,798
- Net Price: $15,685
- Acceptance Rate: 91%
- Retention Rate: 59%
- Graduation Rate: 39%
- Total Enrollment: 3,400
- Undergrad Students: 3,308
- Graduate Students: 92
- Grads Salary: $66,000
- Student-to-faculty: 15:1
Community College of Aurora
Score: 51.24
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $4,030
- Out-of-State:$15,680
- Net Price: $7,340
- Acceptance Rate: 100%
- Retention Rate: 61%
- Graduation Rate: 25%
- Total Enrollment: 8,343
- Undergrad Students: 8,343
- Graduate Students: N/A
- Grads Salary: $42,700
- Student-to-faculty: 13:1
Front Range Community College
Score: 48.54
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $4,740
- Out-of-State:$16,974
- Net Price: $9,186
- Acceptance Rate: 100%
- Retention Rate: 59%
- Graduation Rate: 27%
- Total Enrollment: 19,449
- Undergrad Students: 19,449
- Graduate Students: N/A
- Grads Salary: $44,500
- Student-to-faculty: 21:1
Community College of Denver
Score: 43.21
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $4,902
- Out-of-State:$17,136
- Net Price: $9,633
- Acceptance Rate: 100%
- Retention Rate: 55%
- Graduation Rate: 18%
- Total Enrollment: 7,292
- Undergrad Students: 7,292
- Graduate Students: N/A
- Grads Salary: $39,000
- Student-to-faculty: 20:1
Why Pursue Economics in the Centennial State?
Pursuing an economics degree in Colorado offers several benefits that make it an attractive choice for students. The state is home to thriving industries and business sectors, creating a favorable environment for economics professionals. Proximity to industry hubs provides students with opportunities for internships, networking, and job placement. Furthermore, Colorado's strong job market offers a wide range of career options and competitive salaries for economics graduates.
Online Economics Programs: Tailored for the Working Professional
Online economics programs are specifically designed to accommodate the needs of working professionals who are looking to advance their careers while still managing their current job responsibilities. These programs offer flexibility and convenience, allowing students to study at their own pace and access course materials from anywhere.
Of course, these programs also work well for those students who want to attend a school far away without moving across the state, or the country. The format of online learning is structured to create an engaging and interactive learning experience. Through the use of interactive discussions, virtual lectures, and multimedia resources, online economics students can deepen their understanding of economic theories, concepts, and real-world applications.
Flexibility and Format of Online Learning
One of the key advantages of online economics programs is the flexibility they offer. Working professionals often have busy schedules, and attending traditional on-campus classes may be challenging. Students who plan to live at home while completing a degree can feel free to get a job and start saving money or paying off their student loans while completing their degrees. With online programs, students can balance their work and personal commitments while still pursuing their education.
Students have the freedom to choose when and where they want to study, allowing them to create a schedule that fits their lifestyle. Online programs eliminate the need for commuting and provide the convenience of accessing course materials and participating in class discussions at any time.
National Online Rankings - Top 25 Associate ProgramsSupport Networks for Online Students
Online economics students receive comprehensive support to ensure a successful learning experience. Dedicated advisors are available to guide students throughout their academic journey, providing assistance with course selection, program requirements, and career planning.
Academic resources, such as online libraries and research databases, are often accessible to online students, allowing them to conduct in-depth research and explore the latest economic trends. Additionally, virtual communities create opportunities for online students to connect with fellow classmates and faculty, fostering collaboration and networking.
Benefits of Online Economics Programs for Working Professionals |
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Flexibility to study at your own pace |
Convenience of accessing course materials from anywhere |
Elimination of commuting time and costs |
Access to dedicated advisors for personalized guidance |
Availability of academic resources for in-depth research |
Opportunities to connect with a virtual community of peers |
Exploring Specializations within Economics
Colorado's universities offer a diverse range of specialized programs within their economics degrees, allowing students to focus their studies on specific areas of interest. These specializations provide in-depth knowledge and skills that are tailored to specific career paths within the field of economics, offering students a competitive edge in the job market.
Some of the popular economics specializations available include:
- Applied Economics
This specialization focuses on the practical application of economic theories and principles to real-world problems. Students gain hands-on experience in data analysis and economic modeling, preparing them for careers in policy analysis, market research, or consulting. - Financial Economics
This specialization delves into the study of financial markets, investments, and risk management. Students learn to analyze financial data and make informed decisions regarding investments, assets, and market trends opening career opportunities in banking, investment firms, and financial consulting. - International Economics
This specialization explores the global aspects of economics including international trade, finance, and development. Students gain a deep understanding of the economic interactions between different countries and regions, preparing them for careers in international business, trade analysis, or global economic policy. - Econometrics
An econometrics specialization focuses on the application of statistical methods and data analysis in economics. Students learn to analyze economic data, build economic models, and test economic theories, developing skills that are crucial in fields such as economic forecasting, research, or data analysis. - Environmental Economics
This specialization focuses on the economic aspects of environmental issues such as pollution, resource management, and sustainable development. Students learn to analyze the economic impacts of environmental policies and develop strategies to address environmental challenges, opening career opportunities in environmental consulting, policy analysis, or sustainable business development.
By choosing a specialization that aligns with their career goals and interests, students can gain a deeper understanding of their chosen field and enhance their job prospects. Colorado's universities offer specialized economics programs that cater to students' diverse career aspirations, ensuring they receive a quality education that meets their specific needs.
Economics Specialization | Career Paths |
---|---|
Applied Economics | Policy Analysis, Market Research, Consulting |
Financial Economics | Banking, Investment Firms, Financial Consulting |
International Economics | International Business, Trade Analysis, Global Economic Policy |
Econometrics | Economic Forecasting, Research, Data Analysis |
Environmental Economics | Environmental Consulting, Policy Analysis, Sustainable Business Development |
Affordability of Online Economics Programs
Online economics programs offer students the opportunity to pursue higher education without incurring excessive financial burdens. These programs are known for their affordability, making them accessible to aspiring professionals who want to enhance their career prospects in economics.
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Financial Aid and Scholarships for Economics Students
Financial aid and scholarships are also available to support economics students in their educational journey. These resources help alleviate the financial burden of tuition fees and other expenses, making it easier for students to pursue their online economics degrees.
By exploring the various financial aid options and scholarship opportunities, students can find additional support to make their online economics degree more affordable and accessible. Many Colorado universities offer scholarships specifically for economics students, providing further assistance in financing their education.
Understanding Net Price and Tuition Fees
Understanding the net price and tuition fees associated with online economics programs is crucial for students. Net price refers to the amount that students are expected to pay after scholarships, grants, and other forms of financial aid have been deducted. By comparing the net prices of different programs, estimated after students in the previous year received their financial aid packages, prospective students can identify the most cost-effective options.
Tuition fees vary among online economics programs in Colorado and it’s essential for students to consider these along with other factors such as program quality, reputation, and career outcomes when making their decisions. By understanding the full cost of their education, students can plan their finances effectively and make informed choices about their online economics degree.
Check out our Financial Aid Guide Get additional business resources and scholarshipsAccreditation and Recognition of Colorado's Online Economics Degrees
When pursuing an online economics degree in Colorado, it’s crucial to ensure that your degree is accredited and will be recognized nationwide. Accreditation serves as a mark of quality and credibility, ensuring that the program meets strict educational standards, and it is important for several reasons. First, it guarantees that the curriculum, faculty, and resources of the online economics program have been thoroughly evaluated and meet the highest standards of excellence. This means that you can trust that the knowledge and skills you gain through the program are relevant and up to date, preparing you for success in your future career.
Moreover, accreditation ensures that your degree will be recognized and respected by employers, other educational institutions, and professional organizations nationwide. This recognition can greatly enhance your job prospects and open doors to various opportunities in the field of economics, both within Colorado and beyond.
When researching online economics programs in Colorado, be sure to verify the accreditation status of the institutions you are considering. Look for regional or national accreditation from reputable accrediting bodies recognized by the US Department of Education or the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA). These accrediting bodies evaluate factors such as faculty qualifications, curriculum rigor, student support services, and learning outcomes to determine if a program meets the necessary standards.
By choosing an accredited online economics program in Colorado, you can have confidence in the quality and value of your degree. Accreditation ensures that your hard work and dedication are recognized nationwide, providing you with the foundation for a successful and rewarding career in economics.
Accrediting Body | Description | Website |
---|---|---|
Higher Learning Commission (HLC) | The HLC is a regional accrediting body responsible for accrediting colleges and universities in the central U.S., including Colorado. | https://www.hlcommission.org |
American Economic Association (AEA) | The AEA provides recognition for economics programs and departments that meet their high standards of excellence. | https://www.aeaweb.org |
American Council for Higher Education (ACHE) | ACHE is a national accrediting body that evaluates and accredits higher education institutions across the United States. | https://www.ache.org |
Understanding the Value of an Economics Degree
Earning a degree in economics from a Colorado school offers significant value to students. Studying economics provides a high return on investment (ROI) as graduates in this field have excellent job prospects and often command competitive salaries. Colorado's strong economy and thriving business sectors contribute to the value of a Colorado economics degree, as it aligns with the state's economic goals and offers opportunities for meaningful contributions. Graduating from a Colorado school with an economics degree opens doors to a wide range of career paths including finance, consulting, data analysis, and research positions.
The ROI of Studying Economics
Studying economics can provide a considerable return on investment. Economics graduates are highly sought after by employers due to their analytical and problem-solving skills, as well as their ability to understand and interpret complex economic data. The demand for professionals with an economics background continues to grow, ensuring a stable job market and higher earning potential for graduates.
Colorado's robust economy and thriving business sectors also enhance the value of a Colorado economics degree. The state is home to a diverse range of industries including finance, technology, energy, and healthcare - all of which rely on individuals with a strong understanding of economic principles. Graduates from Colorado schools have the opportunity to make a significant economic impact by contributing to these industries and helping shape Colorado's economic future.
Economic Impact of a Colorado Economics Degree | Benefits |
---|---|
Job Prospects | - Graduates have access to a wide range of career opportunities in various industries. |
Competitive Salaries | - Economics professionals often command higher salaries due to the demand for their skills. |
Economic Growth | - Graduates contribute to Colorado's economy by driving innovation and business development. |
Industry Influence | - Economics graduates shape the decision-making processes of companies and organizations. |
By obtaining a degree in economics from a Colorado school, students can reap the benefits of a flourishing economy and gain the skills needed to thrive in their chosen career path. Whether they pursue positions in finance, consulting, data analysis, or research - a Colorado economics degree sets graduates on a path toward success and provides opportunities to make a positive economic impact.
An economics degree in Colorado offers distinguished quality and unique features that can set it apart from other programs. Colorado universities provide exceptional economics education, equipping students with a well-rounded understanding of economic theory, applied research, and practical skills.
One of the distinctive aspects of economics programs in Colorado is their focus on interdisciplinary learning. These programs incorporate elements of business, finance, mathematics, and statistics, giving students a comprehensive understanding of the field. By studying economics in Colorado, students benefit from a holistic education that prepares them for the complexities of real-world economic challenges.
Colorado's economics degree programs prioritize hands-on learning experiences, internships, and networking opportunities. These opportunities allow students to apply their theoretical knowledge in practical settings, gaining valuable industry experience and developing the skills necessary for success in their careers.
Colorado's Thriving Cities for Economics Graduates
Colorado is a state abundant in job opportunities for economics graduates, with several thriving cities that offer a favorable environment for career growth in economics-related fields. These cities - including Denver, Boulder, Colorado Springs, and Fort Collins - boast robust economies and vibrant business communities, attracting companies from various industries.
The diverse range of industries in these cities, from finance and technology to healthcare and energy, provides excellent career prospects for economics graduates. With their strong job markets and high quality of life, these cities in Colorado serve as ideal locations for economics professionals looking to build successful careers.
Becoming an Economist in Colorado
If you are interested in a career as an economist in Colorado, there are several steps you can take to pursue this rewarding profession. Becoming an economist requires a combination of education, experience, and specific skills and qualities that are essential for success in the field.
Educational Requirements:
- Start by earning a bachelor's degree in economics or a related field. This foundational education will provide you with a solid understanding of economic principles, mathematics, and statistical analysis.
- Consider furthering your education with a master's degree or PhD in economics. While not always required, advanced degrees can enhance your knowledge and qualifications, making you a more competitive candidate in the job market.
Experience and Skills:
- Gain practical experience through internships or entry-level positions in research, analysis, or policy-related roles. This hands-on experience will not only provide you with valuable skills but also help you build a professional network in the field of economics.
- Develop strong analytical and critical thinking skills. Economists must be able to interpret complex data, analyze trends, and make accurate predictions based on economic models.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills are also crucial for economists. You will be expected to present your findings and recommendations to clients, policymakers, and other stakeholders.
Qualities of a Successful Economist:
- An inquisitive and curious nature: Economists must have a strong desire to explore and understand how economic factors influence various industries and societies.
- Attention to detail and meticulousness: Given the complexity of economic analysis, economists must have a meticulous approach to data collection, interpretation, and evaluation.
- Strong problem-solving abilities: Economists are often tasked with solving complex economic problems and providing evidence-based solutions.
- An objective and unbiased perspective: Objectivity is essential in economic analysis to ensure accurate and impartial evaluations.
If you possess the necessary education, experience, and skills, and have a passion for understanding and shaping economic trends and policies, pursuing a career as an economist in Colorado can offer you a fulfilling and intellectually stimulating professional path.
Potential Careers with a Degree in Economics
When it comes to pursuing a degree in economics, the career outcomes are vast and varied. An economics degree opens doors to numerous job opportunities in a wide range of industries, particularly in the diverse sectors of Colorado. An economics degree equips you with valuable analytical, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills that are highly sought after by employers.
With this degree, you can explore a variety of career paths, including:
- Financial analyst
- Data analyst
- Economic consultant
- Market researcher
- Policy analyst
- Investment banker
- Business development manager
- Government economist
These are just a few examples of the many roles that economics graduates can excel in. The versatility of an economics degree allows you to apply your skills and knowledge to various sectors and industries.
Economic Careers in Colorado's Diverse Sectors
Colorado is known for its vibrant and diverse economy, offering an array of opportunities for economics graduates. Here are some sectors in Colorado where economics professionals often thrive:
Industry | Job Opportunities |
---|---|
Finance and banking | Financial analyst, investment banker, risk analyst |
Government | Policy analyst, government economist, economic researcher |
Energy | Economic consultant, energy economist, sustainability analyst |
Healthcare | Health economist, healthcare policy analyst, data analyst |
Technology | Data analyst, market researcher, business intelligence analyst |
These are just a few examples of the sectors where economics professionals can thrive in Colorado. With its diverse industries and strong economy, Colorado offers an abundance of opportunities for those with an economics degree.
Graduate Schools in Colorado: Pathways After Your Undergraduate Economics Degree
Pursuing a graduate degree in economics or related fields can greatly enhance your career prospects after completing your undergraduate economics degree. In Colorado, you have access to reputable graduate schools that offer advanced degree programs specifically tailored to the complexities of the field. These esteemed institutions enable you to delve deeper into economics and develop specialized expertise that can set you apart in the job market.
By obtaining a graduate-level economics degree, you open a broader range of career opportunities. Graduates with advanced degrees have the potential to secure positions in research, academia, government, finance, and consulting. Whether you aspire to contribute to groundbreaking research, shape economic policies, or make strategic financial decisions, a graduate degree provides the knowledge and skills needed to excel in these roles.
Graduate schools in Colorado offer a variety of advanced degree programs in economics. You can pursue a Master of Arts (MA) or Master of Science (MS) in Economics to deepen your understanding of economic theory and develop strong analytical skills. These programs often include coursework in econometrics, microeconomics, macroeconomics, and applied economic analysis. Moreover, some graduate schools provide specialized tracks within their economics programs, allowing you to focus on specific areas such as financial economics, international economics, or behavioral economics.
In addition to economics-specific degrees, Colorado graduate schools also offer related fields of study that align with economics. These include Master of Business Administration (MBA) programs with concentrations in economics or finance. With an MBA degree, you can gain a broader perspective on business management while still honing your economics expertise. Other options include Master of Public Policy (MPP) programs, which combine economics with policy analysis and allow you to make a meaningful impact in the public sector.
National Rankings - online masters in economicsCareer Prospects with a Graduate-Level Degree
With a graduate degree in economics, you position yourself for promising career prospects. Graduates often find employment in prestigious research institutions, government agencies, international organizations, or private corporations. In research roles, you can contribute to advancing economic knowledge, conducting independent studies, and generating valuable insights to inform decision-making. If you aspire to be an educator, a graduate degree in economics can open the doors to teaching positions at universities and colleges.
For those interested in the business world, a graduate-level economics degree can lead to opportunities in finance and consulting. In these roles, you can apply your advanced economic skills to analyze market trends, evaluate investment opportunities, and provide strategic advice to clients. Additionally, government agencies and non-profit organizations seek professionals with graduate economics degrees to analyze economic policies, develop solutions to social issues, and drive sustainable economic growth.
By pursuing a graduate degree in economics or a related field in Colorado, you position yourself for a fulfilling and lucrative career. These advanced programs provide the expertise and credentials needed to excel in the competitive job market. Whether you choose to further specialize in a specific area of economics or explore interdisciplinary opportunities, Colorado graduate schools offer the resources and guidance to help you achieve success in your chosen field.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why should I pursue economics in Colorado?
Colorado offers proximity to industry hubs, a strong job market, and a range of top-tier online economics degree programs that provide valuable knowledge and skills in the field.
What is the value of a Colorado economics degree?
Graduating with an economics degree from a Colorado school offers significant value. Economics graduates have excellent job prospects, command competitive salaries, and can make meaningful contributions to Colorado's strong economy.
Which cities in Colorado offer job opportunities for economics graduates?
Cities such as Denver, Boulder, Colorado Springs, and Fort Collins have robust economies and vibrant business communities, providing abundant job opportunities for economics graduates in various industries.
How do online economics programs cater to working professionals?
Online economics programs in Colorado offer flexibility and convenience, allowing working professionals to study at their own pace and access course materials from anywhere. They also provide support networks, such as dedicated advisors and virtual communities.
What specializations are available within Colorado's economics degrees?
Colorado universities offer economics specializations such as applied economics, financial analysis, micro or macroeconomics, policy analysis, financial planning, market analysis, international economics, econometrics, environmental economics, and more. This allows students to focus their studies on specific areas of interest.
What is the importance of accreditation for online economics programs?
Accreditation, such as the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP) and regional accreditation, ensures the quality and credibility of online economics programs. It is essential to consider the accreditation status when choosing a program.
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