Policy Analysis Certificate

The Policy Analysis graduate certificate provides the analytic skills needed to conduct or understand policy analysis and program planning. The certificate will prepare you to work in the public or not-for-profit sectors.

Program Details

• Program type: Certificate - Graduate
• Format: On Campus or Online
• Estimated time to complete: 1-2 years
• Credit hours: 9

Why Earn a Graduate Certificate in Policy Analysis?

The program's core courses provide a solid background in research methods, policy analysis, and public policy. You will learn how to evaluate policies, conduct research, and advocate for policy solutions. Customize your certificate in Policy Analysis by selecting from a broad range of electives. UND's Policy Analysis certificate provides formal recognition for policy studies. You will understand specific topics related to policy, including:

• Various approaches to analyzing political phenomena
• Techniques of empirical research including research design, measurement, data gathering, and data analysis
• Use of empirical theory and techniques to make policy choices
• Initiation, formulation, adoption, implementation, and evaluation of American public policy
• Contemporary structural and policy problems of state and local governments
• Structures, processes, procedures, and positions of the legislative and executive offices in government

Certificate in Policy Analysis to M.P.A.

Apply your certificate coursework toward a Master of Public Administration degree from UND. You will gain skills in ethical reasoning, management, leadership, and public policy.

Online Policy Analysis Certificate

• 100% Online: You are not required to come to campus at any time. All courses are online.
• Part-Time: Designed for working professionals who are unable to complete a full-time, on-campus program.
• Flexible: Available online with "live" Web classes held in the evenings (typically one evening per week for 3 hours).
• Receive personalized career support through the Pancratz Career Development Center.

Policy Analysis Careers

Rigorous policy analysis is a highly sought-after skill set in today's world of data-driven decision-making. With a graduate certificate in Policy Analysis, you will have advanced analytic skills that will benefit your career in the public service or not-for-profit sector.

Policy Analysis Certificate Courses

• Research Methods (POLS 500): A statistics course or consent of instructor. This course will first focus on various approaches to analyzing political phenomena with the goal of developing students' ability to think analytically and to distinguish between empirical and normative analysis.
• Political and Public Policy Analysis (POLS 501): This course focuses on the use of empirical data both to develop empirical theory and to make policy choices. Topics to be discussed include hypothesis testing, public choice, and policy evaluation.
• Public Policy (POLS 532): A discussion of the initiation, formulation, adoption, implementation, and evaluation of American public policy.
• Health Policy (POLS 552): This course examines historic and contemporary trends in health care delivery in the United States.

Live Online Policy Analysis Certificate Courses

Synchronous classes are held in real-time. If you're the kind of learner who likes active discussion and immediate feedback through live interaction, you'll enjoy this online course format. Every class is different, but generally, you'll log into a virtual classroom at scheduled times to:

• Listen to a lecture
• Ask questions
• Participate in class discussions
• Conduct group activities
• Participate in video-sharing
• Have chat conversations
• Use interactive whiteboards
• Take live polls

Leaders in Online Education

Over a third of UND's student population is exclusively online; plus, more take a combination of online and on-campus classes. You can feel reassured knowing you won't be alone in your online learning journey, and you'll have resources and services tailored to your needs.

• Same degree: All online programs are fully accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC). Your transcript and diploma are exactly the same as our on-campus students.
• Same classes: You'll take courses from UND professors, start and end the semesters at the same time, and take the same classes as a student on campus.
• Real interaction: You can ask questions, get feedback, and regularly connect with your professors, peers, and professionals in the field.
• Your own academic advisor: As an invaluable go-to, they're focused on you, your personal success, and your future career.
• Free online tutoring: We're here to help you one-on-one at no cost. Plus, get access to a variety of self-help online study resources.
• Unlimited academic coaching: Need support to achieve your academic goals or feeling stumped by a tough course? We'll help with everything from stress and time management to improving your memory to achieve higher test scores.
• Full online access: Dig into virtual research at UND's libraries. Improve your writing skills with online help from the UND Writing Center. Get online access to career services, veteran and military services, financial services, and more.
• 24/7 technical support: UND provides free computer, email, and other technical support for all online students.
• Networking opportunities: Our significant online student population means you'll have a large pool of peers to connect with. UND has numerous online events and activities to keep you connected.

University of North Dakota: A Summary

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Overview:

The University of North Dakota (UND) is the state's oldest and largest university, offering over 225 accredited on-campus and online degrees. It is known for its commitment to student leadership and fostering a welcoming and inclusive campus environment.

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Services Offered:

UND provides a range of support services for students, including:

Diversity and Inclusion:

UND values diverse perspectives and actively promotes a sense of belonging for all students.

TRIO Programs:

Support for first-generation and Pell-eligible students to help them succeed at UND.

Pride Center:

Resources and support for the LGBTQ+ community on campus.

Disability Resources:

Equal opportunities for qualified students with disabilities to participate in all UND activities.

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Student Life and Campus Experience:

UND emphasizes student leadership and provides opportunities for students to make a positive impact. The campus offers a vibrant community with various student organizations and activities.

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Key Reasons to Study There:

Academic Excellence:

UND offers a wide range of highly accredited programs, including specialized fields like Unmanned Aircraft Systems Operations, Data Science, and Forensic Science.

Affordability:

UND consistently ranks among the best for educational quality and affordability.

Career Outcomes:

UND prepares students for successful careers with strong emphasis on practical skills and real-world experience.

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Academic Programs:

UND offers a diverse range of academic programs, with notable strengths in:

Unmanned Aircraft Systems Operations:

A cutting-edge program in a rapidly growing industry.

Data Science:

A high-demand field with strong career prospects.

Economics:

A solid foundation for careers in law, business, and other fields.

Forensic Science:

Immersive program with hands-on experience in forensic labs.