(18 credit hours) The Policy Analysis concentration focuses on developing the skills to create and consume accurate and actionable research and information designed to address public policy problems.

The Policy Analysis concentration requirements emphasize the acquisition of quantitative skills that may be used to inform public policy decisions. The Policy Analysis field electives aim to provide students with additional quantitative and qualitative skills used for policy analysis, and/or to provide students with the contextual knowledge needed to analyze policies in a substantive area. The electives change frequently, and often include topics courses as well as courses in a wide variety of policy areas: health, economic development, education, social policy transportation, energy, etc. In general, this substantive knowledge component requires more than one course in the same area. Consequently, it is important that the plan include early consultation with a concentration advisor.

Students may also acquire this substantive knowledge by combining the Policy Analysis concentration with other concentrations that may require fewer tool skills. For example, dual concentrations in Policy Analysis and Sustainable Development would prepare one to do work in sustainability with a more analytical approach. Students may not use MPA core courses to fulfill concentration requirements.

Policy Analysis Skills (9 credit hours)

The following course is required:

Take a minimum of two of the following three courses:

Note: Should the student decide to take P 539, P 541, and P 562, the third course can be counted as one of the three policy courses required below.

Policy Field (9 credit hours)

In consultation with a concentration advisor, select three of the following courses or other graduate courses approved as equivalent substitutions: