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Public Policy Courses

Public policy courses can help you learn policy analysis, program evaluation, stakeholder engagement, and the legislative process. You can build skills in data interpretation, strategic planning, and effective communication with diverse audiences. Many courses introduce tools like statistical software for data analysis, policy simulation models, and frameworks for assessing social impact, all of that support crafting informed and effective public policies.


Popular Public Policy Courses and Certifications


  • Status: Preview
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    U

    University of Michigan

    Using Public Policy for Social Change

    Skills you'll gain: Policy Analysis, Policy Development, Social Justice, Advocacy, Public Policies, Political Sciences, Health Policy, Social Impact, Economics, Policy, and Social Studies, Program Evaluation, Community and Social Work, Public Administration, Case Studies, Diversity Equity and Inclusion Initiatives, Research, Problem Solving

    4.9
    Rating, 4.9 out of 5 stars
    ·
    168 reviews

    Beginner · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks

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    O.P. Jindal Global University

    Theories of Public Policy

    Skills you'll gain: Public Policies, Policy Development, Policy Analysis, Political Sciences, Advocacy, Environmental Policy, Behavioral Economics, Public Administration, Program Evaluation, Ethical Standards And Conduct, Governance, Systems Thinking, Economics

    Build toward a degree

    4.8
    Rating, 4.8 out of 5 stars
    ·
    6 reviews

    Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months

  • Status: Free Trial
    Free Trial
    U

    University of Michigan

    Assisting Public Sector Decision Makers With Policy Analysis

    Skills you'll gain: Statistical Analysis, Program Evaluation, Policy Analysis, Data Analysis, Statistical Methods, Public Policies, Statistical Hypothesis Testing, Policy Development, Analytical Skills, Forecasting, R Programming, Data-Driven Decision-Making, Research Design, Time Series Analysis and Forecasting

    4.8
    Rating, 4.8 out of 5 stars
    ·
    27 reviews

    Intermediate · Course · 1 - 3 Months

  • Status: Free Trial
    Free Trial
    U

    University of Michigan

    Data Analytics in the Public Sector with R

    Skills you'll gain: Data Visualization, Exploratory Data Analysis, Plot (Graphics), Statistical Analysis, Data Presentation, Ggplot2, Program Evaluation, Policy Analysis, Surveys, Data Ethics, R (Software), Data Analysis, Tidyverse (R Package), Statistical Visualization, R Programming, Statistical Methods, Public Policies, Data Visualization Software, Case Studies, Political Sciences

    4.7
    Rating, 4.7 out of 5 stars
    ·
    90 reviews

    Intermediate · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months

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    O.P. Jindal Global University

    Law, Governance, and Public Policy

    Skills you'll gain: Policy Development, Political Sciences, Governance, Policy Analysis, International Relations, Public Policies, Social Justice, Economic Development, Public Administration, Law, Regulation, and Compliance, Case Studies

    Build toward a degree

    4.9
    Rating, 4.9 out of 5 stars
    ·
    10 reviews

    Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months

  • Status: Preview
    Preview
    U

    University of London

    Global Diplomacy – Diplomacy in the Modern World

    Skills you'll gain: Diplomacy, International Relations, Political Sciences, Cultural Diversity, Mediation, Intercultural Competence, Public Affairs, World History, Conflict Management, Policy Analysis

    4.7
    Rating, 4.7 out of 5 stars
    ·
    5.5K reviews

    Mixed · Course · 1 - 3 Months

What brings you to Coursera today?

  • Status: New
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    Status: Preview
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    T

    Tata Institute of Social Sciences

    Making Public Policies Work: The Last-mile Delivery

    Skills you'll gain: Public Policies, Policy Development, Policty Analysis, Research, and Development, Governance, Policy Analysis, Social and Human Services, Economics, Policy, and Social Studies, Program Implementation, Social Justice, Public Administration, Community Development, Diversity and Inclusion, Advocacy, Program Evaluation, Empowerment, Stakeholder Engagement

    4.8
    Rating, 4.8 out of 5 stars
    ·
    6 reviews

    Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months

  • Status: Free Trial
    Free Trial
    U

    University of Michigan

    Generative AI: Governance, Policy, and Emerging Regulation

    Skills you'll gain: Responsible AI, Governance, Data Governance, Data Management, Compliance Management, Generative AI, Artificial Intelligence, Stakeholder Management, Risk Analysis, Cost Benefit Analysis, Regulation and Legal Compliance, Organizational Strategy, Leadership and Management, Risk Management, Accountability

    4.7
    Rating, 4.7 out of 5 stars
    ·
    74 reviews

    Intermediate · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks

  • Status: Free Trial
    Free Trial
    O

    O.P. Jindal Global University

    Ethics in Public Policy

    Skills you'll gain: Policy Analysis, Social Justice, Ethical Standards And Conduct, Public Policies, Political Sciences, Economics, Policy, and Social Studies, Governance, Social Sciences, Economics, International Relations, Case Studies

    4.3
    Rating, 4.3 out of 5 stars
    ·
    21 reviews

    Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months

  • Status: Preview
    Preview
    I

    Indian Institute for Human Settlements

    The Art and Science of Economic Policy

    Skills you'll gain: Economics, Policy, and Social Studies, Policy Development, Public Policies, Policy Analysis, Behavioral Economics, Political Sciences, Economics, Market Dynamics, Governance, Program Implementation, Decision Making

    4.7
    Rating, 4.7 out of 5 stars
    ·
    121 reviews

    Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months

  • Status: Preview
    Preview
    U

    Universiteit Leiden

    EU policy and implementation: making Europe work!

    Skills you'll gain: Policy Analysis, Public Policies, Economics, Policy, and Social Studies, Policy Development, Environmental Policy, Program Evaluation, Governance, Immigration Law, Research Methodologies

    4.4
    Rating, 4.4 out of 5 stars
    ·
    195 reviews

    Intermediate · Course · 1 - 3 Months

  • Status: New
    New
    Status: Preview
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    O

    O.P. Jindal Global University

    Complexity and Public Policy

    Skills you'll gain: Systems Thinking, Complex Problem Solving, Policy Analysis, Public Policies, Health Policy, Climate Change Programs, Program Evaluation, Political Sciences, Sustainable Development, Economic Development, Social Sciences, Economics, Ethical Standards And Conduct, Computational Thinking, Data Storytelling, Innovation, Decision Making

    Build toward a degree

    Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months

Searches related to public policy

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tobacco & nicotine: public health, science, policy, and law
1234…214

In summary, here are 10 of our most popular public policy courses

  • Using Public Policy for Social Change: University of Michigan
  • Theories of Public Policy: O.P. Jindal Global University
  • Assisting Public Sector Decision Makers With Policy Analysis: University of Michigan
  • Data Analytics in the Public Sector with R: University of Michigan
  • Law, Governance, and Public Policy: O.P. Jindal Global University
  • Global Diplomacy – Diplomacy in the Modern World: University of London
  • Making Public Policies Work: The Last-mile Delivery: Tata Institute of Social Sciences
  • Generative AI: Governance, Policy, and Emerging Regulation: University of Michigan
  • Ethics in Public Policy: O.P. Jindal Global University
  • The Art and Science of Economic Policy: Indian Institute for Human Settlements

Frequently Asked Questions about Public Policy

Public policy refers to the principles and regulations established by governments to address societal issues. It encompasses a wide range of areas, including healthcare, education, environmental protection, and economic development. Understanding public policy is crucial because it shapes the framework within which society operates, influencing the quality of life for individuals and communities. Effective public policy can lead to improved public services, enhanced social justice, and sustainable development.‎

A career in public policy can lead to various roles, including policy analyst, public affairs specialist, legislative assistant, and program manager. These positions often exist within government agencies, non-profit organizations, think tanks, and private sector firms. Each role contributes to the development, analysis, and implementation of policies that affect public welfare, making a significant impact on society.‎

To succeed in public policy, you should develop a mix of analytical, communication, and critical thinking skills. Proficiency in data analysis and research methods is essential, as is the ability to articulate complex ideas clearly. Understanding legal frameworks and ethical considerations in policy-making is also important. Additionally, skills in negotiation and stakeholder engagement can enhance your effectiveness in this field.‎

Some of the best online courses in public policy include Assisting Public Sector Decision Makers With Policy Analysis, Ethics in Public Policy, and Using Public Policy for Social Change. These courses provide foundational knowledge and practical skills that are essential for anyone looking to make a difference in the public sector.‎

Yes. You can start learning public policy on Coursera for free in two ways:

  1. Preview the first module of many public policy courses at no cost. This includes video lessons, readings, graded assignments, and Coursera Coach (where available).
  2. Start a 7-day free trial for Specializations or Coursera Plus. This gives you full access to all course content across eligible programs within the timeframe of your trial.

If you want to keep learning, earn a certificate in public policy, or unlock full course access after the preview or trial, you can upgrade or apply for financial aid.‎

Learning public policy involves a combination of formal education, self-study, and practical experience. You can start by enrolling in online courses, attending workshops, and participating in discussions on current policy issues. Engaging with professionals in the field through networking can also provide insights and mentorship opportunities.‎

Public policy courses typically cover a range of topics, including policy analysis, ethics, governance, and the impact of policies on various sectors. You may also explore specific issues such as healthcare policy, environmental policy, and social justice. Understanding these topics equips you with the tools to analyze and influence public policy effectively.‎

For training and upskilling employees in public policy, courses like Data Analytics in the Public Sector with R Specialization and Law, Governance, and Public Policy are particularly beneficial. These programs focus on practical skills and knowledge that can enhance workforce capabilities in addressing public policy challenges.‎

This FAQ content has been made available for informational purposes only. Learners are advised to conduct additional research to ensure that courses and other credentials pursued meet their personal, professional, and financial goals.

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