Course Number: 90-705

Policy Analysis I

Units: 12

This class aims to survey the broad field of public policy as both an academic discipline and as a field of practice. The curriculum covers, in a systematic way, the main dimensions and understandings of public policy making. Core frameworks for public policy-making and the debates about them are discussed and analyzed, in particular the ideas of the "policy cycle", the "garbage-can" approach, and the ongoing debates about the motivational and institutional foundations of public policy. Issues and problems at the main stages or steps in the public policy-making process are also explored - from the definition of policy problems and the setting of policy agendas, to the theory and practice of policy analysis, to the issues surrounding the delivery, implementation and evaluation of public policies.Current issues and perspectives in public policy are used throughout to illustrate the general concepts and theories. The class draws on case study material from a variety of policy areas and is concerned with how concepts and theories shape contemporary public policy practice.

Students who successfully complete this class will be able to:

1. demonstrate a knowledge of key concepts in public policy and decision-making
2. demonstrate an ability to apply them to the analysis of policy options, implementation strategies and the evaluation of results in public policy making
3. demonstrate an ability to recognize complexities of policy and decision-making in practice, and identity possible means of addressing them and

4. communicate their analysis and findings clearly and directly in their written work and in verbal presentations

Faculty:
Terry F. Buss