Data Analysis for Public Policy and Decision Making

Public sector decisions impact millions of lives, making evidence-based policy analysis more critical than ever. To drive real change, modern policy analysts must know how to translate complex data into clear, actionable insights. This text-based course guides you through the foundational principles of public policy analysis. You will learn how to evaluate policy options, assess social impact, and apply data-driven methodologies to solve real-world community challenges. What you'll learn: - Understand the core stages of the public policymaking process and the role of data at each phase. - Evaluate policy alternatives using key public sector metrics of efficiency, effectiveness, and equity. - Analyze policy options and model potential outcomes using foundational research design principles. - Apply basic microsimulation concepts to predict how policy changes affect different demographic groups. - Interpret public datasets responsibly while maintaining high ethical standards of data privacy and equity. The curriculum begins with fundamental policy concepts and public sector frameworks before moving into practical methodologies for analyzing policy options. You will read through realistic case studies that demonstrate how to structure policy briefs and present findings to key stakeholders. This course is designed for aspiring policy analysts, public sector employees, and beginners looking to enter the field of public administration. No prior background in advanced statistics or data science is required. Start building the analytical skills needed to shape effective public policy today.