What topics are typically covered in public policy courses?

Public policy courses cover a variety of topics essential for understanding and shaping public policies. These include the fundamentals of policy analysis, public administration , and political science . Learners will explore topics such as economic policy , social policy, and environmental policy. Advanced courses might cover areas like policy evaluation, public budgeting, and legislative processes. Practical exercises and case studies help learners apply these concepts to real-world policy issues, enhancing their analytical and decision-making skills.

How can I choose the right public policy course for my career goals?

Choosing the right public policy course depends on your current skill level and career aspirations. Beginners should look for courses that cover the basics of policy analysis, public administration , and an introduction to different policy areas. Those with some experience might benefit from intermediate courses focusing on specific policy areas like economic policy , social policy, and methods for policy evaluation. Advanced learners or professionals seeking specialized knowledge might consider courses on public budgeting, legislative processes, or preparing for certifications like Certified Public Policy Analyst (CPPA). Reviewing course content, instructor expertise, and learner feedback can help ensure the course aligns with your goals.

What career opportunities can I pursue with a certificate in public policy?

A certificate in public policy can open up various career opportunities in government, non-profit organizations, and the private sector. Common roles include policy analyst, public affairs specialist, legislative assistant, and program manager . These positions involve analyzing policy issues, developing and advocating for policies, conducting research, and managing public programs. With the increasing importance of informed policy-making in addressing societal challenges, earning a certificate in public policy can significantly enhance your career prospects and opportunities for advancement in fields such as government, public administration, and policy research.

Best Public Policy Courses & Certificates [2025]

Explore the Public Policy Course Catalog

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University of Michigan
Using Public Policy for Social Change
Skills you'll gain: Policy Analysis, Policy Development, Social Justice, Advocacy, Public Policies, Political Sciences, Health Policy, Economics, Policy, and Social Studies, Program Evaluation, Community and Social Work, Diversity Equity and Inclusion Initiatives, Research, Problem Solving
4.9
Rating, 4.9 out of 5 stars
149 reviews
Beginner · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks
Status: New
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O.P. Jindal Global University
Theories of Public Policy
Skills you'll gain: Public Policies, Policy Development, Policy Analysis, Economics, Policy, and Social Studies, Advocacy, Political Sciences, Social Sciences, Environmental Policy, Social Justice, Public Administration, Program Evaluation, Communication Planning, Strategic Communication, Ethical Standards And Conduct, Behavioral Economics, Governance
Build toward a degree
Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months
Status: Free Trial
University of Michigan
Generative AI: Governance, Policy, and Emerging Regulation
Skills you'll gain: Governance, Data Management, Compliance Management, Generative AI, Regulatory Compliance, Artificial Intelligence, Stakeholder Management, Technology Strategies, Cost Benefit Analysis, Organizational Strategy, Leadership and Management, Risk Management, Business Ethics
4.7
Rating, 4.7 out of 5 stars
41 reviews
Intermediate · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks
Status: Free Trial
University of Michigan
Data Analytics in the Public Sector with R
Skills you'll gain: Data Visualization, Exploratory Data Analysis, Plot (Graphics), Statistical Analysis, Data Presentation, Ggplot2, Program Evaluation, Policy Analysis, Surveys, Data Ethics, Data Analysis, Tidyverse (R Package), Statistical Visualization, R Programming, Statistical Methods, Public Policies, Data Visualization Software, Statistical Hypothesis Testing, Policy Development, Political Sciences
4.8
Rating, 4.8 out of 5 stars
80 reviews
Intermediate · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months
Status: Free Trial
University of Michigan
Assisting Public Sector Decision Makers With Policy Analysis
Skills you'll gain: Statistical Analysis, Program Evaluation, Policy Analysis, Data Analysis, Statistical Methods, Public Policies, Statistical Hypothesis Testing, Policy Development, Analytical Skills, Forecasting, R Programming, Data-Driven Decision-Making, Research Design, Time Series Analysis and Forecasting
4.8
Rating, 4.8 out of 5 stars
26 reviews
Intermediate · Course · 1 - 3 Months
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Indian Institute for Human Settlements
The Art and Science of Economic Policy
Skills you'll gain: Economics, Policy, and Social Studies, Policy Development, Public Policies, Policy Analysis, Behavioral Economics, Economics, Market Dynamics, Competitive Analysis, Governance, Program Implementation, Decision Making, Resource Allocation
4.7
Rating, 4.7 out of 5 stars
118 reviews
Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months

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Status: Free Trial
O.P. Jindal Global University
Ethics in Public Policy
Skills you'll gain: Policy Analysis, Social Justice, Ethical Standards And Conduct, Public Policies, Policy Development, Political Sciences, Economics, Policy, and Social Studies, Governance, Social Sciences, Economics, International Relations
4.3
Rating, 4.3 out of 5 stars
20 reviews
Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months
Status: Preview
Yale University
Moral Foundations of Politics
Skills you'll gain: Political Sciences, Policy Analysis, Social Justice, Social Sciences, European History, Law, Regulation, and Compliance, Governance, Ethical Standards And Conduct, Socioeconomics, Economics
4.9
Rating, 4.9 out of 5 stars
6K reviews
Mixed · Course · 1 - 3 Months
Status: Preview
University of London
Global Diplomacy – Diplomacy in the Modern World
Skills you'll gain: Diplomacy, International Relations, World History, Political Sciences, Policy Analysis, Public Affairs, Mediation, Interpersonal Communications
4.7
Rating, 4.7 out of 5 stars
5.4K reviews
Mixed · Course · 1 - 3 Months
Status: Free Trial
IBM
Excel Basics for Data Analysis
Skills you'll gain: Excel Formulas, Microsoft Excel, Data Cleansing, Data Analysis, Data Import/Export, Spreadsheet Software, Data Wrangling, Data Quality, Pivot Tables And Charts, Google Sheets, Data Manipulation, Data Science, Data Visualization Software, Information Privacy
4.8
Rating, 4.8 out of 5 stars
10K reviews
Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months
Status: Preview
Universiteit Leiden
EU policy and implementation: making Europe work!
Skills you'll gain: Policy Analysis, Public Policies, Policy Development, Political Sciences, Environmental Policy, Program Evaluation, Governance, Research, Immigration Law, Law, Regulation, and Compliance
4.4
Rating, 4.4 out of 5 stars
191 reviews
Intermediate · Course · 1 - 3 Months
Status: New
Status: Preview
O.P. Jindal Global University
Law, Governance, and Public Policy
Skills you'll gain: Political Sciences, Governance, Policy Analysis, International Relations, Public Policies, Social Justice, Economic Development, Community Development, Law, Regulation, and Compliance, Social Studies, Economics, Decision Making
Build toward a degree
Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months