Learning Outcomes

Policy Analysis

A. Definition: The student demonstrates the ability to identify and analyze a policy issue and present well-informed policy recommendations; to identify and work with all actors in the policy review and approval process (including where necessary the legislative process); and secure final approval and implementation of recommended policies.

B. Competencies: Knowledge: The student has mastered core analytical concepts and methods from economics, finance, mathematics, and the behavioral and social sciences; knows methods of characterizing a policy issue and developing a work plan to analyze that issue in economic and social terms; and has a working knowledge of methods used to characterize and understand the political process relevant to any particular policy issue.

Abilities: The student identifies a policy issue and, with respect to that issue, to: conduct primary and secondary research; define policy options; analyze those options by drawing upon and integrating analytical methods from economics, finance, mathematics, information science, behavioral and other social sciences, physical sciences, and other relevant disciplines; incorporate criteria of equity and social justice and present well-supported conclusions and recommendations based on such analysis.

Abilities: The student recognizes and understands the process of developing and approving a given policy (including identification of all major stakeholders, their interests, and their roles in the policy development and approval process) and guide a policy through that process from inception to final approval.

C. Pre-requisite: Courses in economics, political institutions, and social sciences.