Introduction to Public Policy

Have you ever wondered how governments decide to build a new highway, reform healthcare, or protect the environment? This course demystifies the world of public policy, giving you a clear framework for understanding how decisions that affect us all are made. By the end of this course, you will be able to confidently explain the policymaking process from start to finish. You'll gain the skills to analyze different policy proposals and understand the complex interplay of actors and interests that shape government action. What you'll learn: - Understand the complete public policy lifecycle, from agenda setting and formulation to implementation and evaluation. - Identify the key actors in the policy process, including government bodies, interest groups, and the public. - Learn foundational techniques for policy analysis to assess the potential impacts of a new law or regulation. - Analyze how political, social, and economic factors influence policy decisions and outcomes. - Explore the growing role of data analysis and citizen engagement in modern policymaking. - Practice applying core concepts by reading through and deconstructing real-world policy case studies. The course begins with core terminology and foundational theories before guiding you through each stage of the policy cycle. You will examine practical examples to see how these concepts apply in reality. This course is designed for absolute beginners. No prior experience in political science, economics, or law is necessary to get started. Begin your journey to understanding the forces that shape our communities and our world.