A graduate certificate in public policy is an excellent course to study, allowing you to move into public policy and management roles. But what will you learn on the course? You head online for answers but find only conflicting and confusing responses.
Well, no more. Our guide today is here to help. We have outlined the goal of the course, what you will learn, and everything you need to know about a graduate certificate in public policy.
What Is A Graduate Certificate In Public Policy?
A graduate certificate in public policy allows you to build your knowledge about data analytics, deepen your understanding of leadership and equity frameworks, and develop a foundation in research, briefings, and policy planning. The learning outcomes will vary from course to course, but you can expect them to follow a similar pattern to those listed below:
- Learn data analytics for relevant policy-making – summarising, highlighting, and identifying patterns and trends to understand the quality and limitations of a specific policy
- Engage in evidence-based policy design – to understand concepts, techniques, and methods to evaluate the credibility of a policy
- Recognise equity concerns – examining the concept of equity from various standpoints, its expression in policy, and how these concepts change
- Gain the foundations of public policy – to build core competencies in public policy, governance, equity, and public participation
The course will take six to eight months and is offered full-time or part-time. You can also study online, providing plenty of flexibility to study around your work and life.
What Will I Learn On A Graduate Certificate In Public Policy?
What you will learn on a graduate certificate in public policy varies from course to course. You can find a full list of the units and topics covered on the course page provided by your course provider or by reaching out directly. Generally, a graduate certificate in public policy will feature four units covering the following:
Foundations Of Public Policy
Here, you will learn the basics of public policy, looking at the foundations for successful policies. You will likely briefly look at the history of public policy, with examples of successful and unsuccessful policies, showing you what should be avoided when creating policies. You will also consider any contemporary challenges policymakers face, giving you an insight into the modern world in which your policies will be created.
Equity, Leadership, And Policy
You will learn about equity, leadership, and policy for government and non-government policymakers. You will learn how these work with and against each other and how leadership and equity must be considered when creating, updating, and managing policies.
Evidence-Based Policy Analysis
This will likely involve case studies where you will analyse existing or previous policies. This will allow you to consider what worked well, the challenges it could have faced, and any changes you would make to the policy. Alongside the policy, you will learn about the reactions to it, how it was enforced, and if there were any changes to the policy while it was in place.
You might also look at examples of other work that has analysed the policy, showing you the key factors to consider when conducting evidence-based policy analysis.
Data Analytics and Public Policy
Through case studies, you will learn how to analyse data. You will learn how this relates to public policy and how data analysis can be used to influence public policy. The importance of data and how to use data analysis to create successful policies is essential for any public policy role.
What Qualifications Do I Need For A Graduate Certificate In Public Policy?
The qualifications for a graduate certificate in public policy can vary depending on your course provider. You must contact the admissions team, check the course page online, or speak to the course provider directly for specific entry requirements for a public policy course. However, most graduate certificates in public policy require you to have one of the following:
- A bachelor’s degree or equivalent
- A higher level qualification in any discipline from a recognised tertiary institution
- Three years of relevant work experience
What Can I Do With A Graduate Certificate In Public Policy?
A graduate certificate in public policy helps professionals prepare for their next step in policy making or management, especially those working in social intelligence, health, government, and non-government sectors. Graduates typically fill the following roles with a certificate in public policy:
- Policy and stakeholder engagement officer
- Senior adviser, policy, and planning
- Policy and research manager
- Adviser – policy and government relations
Many graduates return to education, too. From your graduate certificate, you can continue your studies to gain a graduate diploma or master’s degree. Depending on your course provider, your completed modules will count towards your following qualification, making the transition smoother. You can speak to your course provider if you consider returning to deepen your knowledge.
Final Thoughts
A graduate public policy certificate provides the foundations you need to progress into policy-making roles. Whether you want to work within the public or private sector, the course will help you create, implement, and analyse policies. Why not register today?
