Introduction to basic statistics including use and interpretation of statistics used in policy research. Topics include statistical methods, descriptive statistics, probability theory, analysis of tabular data, correlation and regression, and multiple regression.

This course equips students with tools to evaluate the success of public and nonprofit policies and programs. Course topics will survey basic practices such as process and outcome evaluation, as well as techniques such as experimental and quasi-experimental designs for effective policy and program administration. In addition, the course explores the advantages of using evaluation as a mechanism for program improvement.

Integrates material from core courses and applies it to actual and hypothetical policy issues in many areas. Examines policy analysis methods using case studies from a wide range of substantive policy areas. Looks at social, economic, organizational, political, and other influences on policy decisions.

Integrates material from core courses and applies it to actual and hypothetical policy issues in many areas. Examines policy analysis methods using case studies from a wide range of substantive policy areas. Looks at social, economic, organizational, political, and other influences on policy decisions.

This course is designed for those who may be involved in nonprofit organizations at some point in their lives as directors, employees, volunteers, customers, funders, or founders. Students will create, fund, run, and dissolve a virtual 501(c)(3) public charity over the course of the semester, as we learn the opportunities and challenges that nonprofits can face.

This seminar introduces students to enduring and emerging information policy issues in public interest battles fought locally, nationally and globally for the control of Internet infrastructure, code and content. We will analyze how policy and regulation, politics, commercial interests, nation-states, transnational organizations and organized civil society actors are shaping our digital communication environment, considering the implications of Internet governance for democracy and human development.

61 million Americans - one quarter of Americans - live with disabilities. One of the best ways to understand the effectiveness of American social policy is by looking at how it does or does not incorporate, reflect, and support their rights and needs on issues ranging from Covid to education, housing, and infrastructure. This course will explore major developments and emerging frontiers in disability policy through a combination of readings, discussions, and public-facing group projects.

Introduction to Environmental Policy and Administration in the United States, with a focus on the Federal level. Topics include: Defining a "Public Problem"; understanding what Public Policy is; understanding what Public Administration is; and understanding what Policy Analysis is. Much of the course will be focused on reviewing major historical environmental legislation and policies (e.g., Clean Air, Clean Water; Endangered Species; Superfund; Wind Energy, etc.).

The relationships among reporters, publishers, and politicians, and how each uses the media. Using historical biographies and other texts, the class will examine past strategies by politicians and media figures. Topics include campaign strategies, Washington politics, day-to-day effectiveness in office, making arguments through the media, and how those not elected use the media.

Focus on how public policies are made in the U.S., including the role of citizens, interest groups, and government institutions. Emphasis on the processes by which policies are made in various institutions, including the Presidency, Congress, bureaucracy, and courts. Examples cover numerous public policies, such as campaign finance reform, foreign policy, and the environment. (Gen.Ed. SB)