Graduate Certificate in Policy Analysis
The Stanford Public Policy Program offers a graduate “Certificate in Policy Analysis” for current Stanford graduate students. This highly flexible program is designed for students who are interested in policy but may not be able to complete a formal one or two-year policy degree. The program’s coursework provides a solid background in economics and quantitative methods, political analysis, ethics, and writing for policy audiences. These courses will equip students with a set of skills necessary to design and evaluate policies, conduct research, and advocate policy solutions. The minimum number of units to complete the certificate is 25 units, but students may want to enroll in coursework up to 27 units.
The certificate provides formal recognition for a coherent plan of policy studies. In addition to completing coursework, students will produce a final paper reflecting on the policy lessons from their time in the program. Upon completion of the program, a certificate is provided. Note that the certificate is not included on the diploma or transcript. Grading policy: students may take two courses for a non-letter grade, in addition to the one-unit required colloquium course. The remaining courses must be taken for a letter grade.
Program Learning Outcomes
- Master analytical tools for evaluating public policies and programs in terms of their absolute and comparative efficacy in achieving given social objectives.
- Participate in policy and political discussion as citizens and as professionals in a variety of fields.
- Appreciate the complexity of large organizations as it relates to the implementation of public programs.
- Understand the conflicts in ethical and value commitments that pervade public policy issues.
How to Apply
The application to the Certificate in Policy Analysis can be submitted at any time. Upon submission, a member of the Public Policy program staff will contact you to confirm your course plan and answer any questions you may have. You must be a currently enrolled graduate student to pursue the certificate.