This course will introduce students to both the process of public policy and the tools of policy analysis. The first part examines the actors, institutions, and procedures involved in the adoption, implementation, and evaluation of public policy. The second part introduces students to the basic concepts and tools of policy analysis including problem definition, specification of alternatives, and solution analysis.

Course will survey the historical development of key public policy issues in cross-national perspective. What explains the similarities and differences in the content of the policy agendas across nations? Why do different nations often respond to similar problems in very different ways? Examples of issues that will be explored include health care, education, immigration, environment, and social policy.

Investigates a selected issue in public policy or leadership.

How can we understand patterns of human development around the world? More specifically, how does politics affect health, prosperity and security? Through this course, you will become a critical consumer of explanations for human development and you will learn how to propose and evaluate development initiatives with a keen understanding of the importance of political factors.

Students will produce a report providing an analysis of the problem, the policy options available, and their action recommendations. Students will improve their ability to work in teams and hone their written and oral presentation skills.

Investigates a selected issue in public policy or leadership.