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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


  • 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 and Human Services, Social Impact, Economics, Policy, and Social Studies, Community and Social Work, Program Evaluation, Public Administration, Case Studies, Diversity Equity and Inclusion Initiatives, Research, Persuasive Communication, Problem Solving

    ★ 4.9 (183) · Beginner · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks

    Category: Preview
    Preview
    Category: Credit offered
    Credit offered
  • O

    O.P. Jindal Global University

    Theories of Public Policy

    Skills you'll gain: Public Policies, Policy Development, Public Affairs, Policty Analysis, Research, and Development, Policy Analysis, Political Sciences, Economics, Policy, and Social Studies, Advocacy, Environmental Policy, Behavioral Economics, Public Administration, Media and Communications, Program Evaluation, Ethical Standards And Conduct, Governance, Economics

    ★ 4.8 (6) · Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months

    Category: Preview
    Preview
    Category: Build toward a degree
    Build toward a degree
  • U

    University of Michigan

    Assisting Public Sector Decision Makers With Policy Analysis

    Skills you'll gain: Statistical Analysis, Policty Analysis, Research, and Development, Program Evaluation, Policy Analysis, Data Analysis, Statistical Methods, Public Policies, Statistical Hypothesis Testing, Statistical Programming, Analytics, Analytical Skills, Statistical Software, Forecasting, R Programming, Data-Driven Decision-Making, Research Design, Science and Research, Time Series Analysis and Forecasting, Ggplot2

    ★ 4.7 (49) · Intermediate · Course · 1 - 3 Months

    Status: Free Trial
    Free Trial
    Category: Credit offered
    Credit offered
  • O

    O.P. Jindal Global University

    Law, Governance, and Public Policy

    Skills you'll gain: Policy Development, Policty Analysis, Research, and Development, Political Sciences, Governance, Policy Analysis, Court Systems, International Relations, Public Policies, Social Justice, Economic Development, Public Administration, Economics, Policy, and Social Studies, Adjudication, Law, Regulation, and Compliance, Economics

    ★ 4.8 (80) · Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months

    Category: Preview
    Preview
    Category: Build toward a degree
    Build toward a degree
  • U

    University of Michigan

    Data Analytics in the Public Sector with R

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

    ★ 4.6 (121) · Intermediate · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months

    Status: Free Trial
    Free Trial
    Category: Credit offered
    Credit offered
  • 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 Affairs, Political Sciences, Public Administration, Community Development, Social Work, Diversity and Inclusion, Lobbying, Community and Social Work, Advocacy, Benefits Administration, Economic Development

    ★ 4.3 (9) · Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months

    Category: Preview
    Preview
    Category: Credit offered
    Credit offered

What brings you to Coursera today?

  • U

    University of Michigan

    Generative AI: Governance, Policy, and Emerging Regulation

    Skills you'll gain: Responsible AI, Governance, Data Governance, Data Management, Data Ethics, Compliance Management, Generative AI, Law, Regulation, and Compliance, Stakeholder Analysis, Stakeholder Engagement, Regulatory Requirements, Artificial Intelligence, Stakeholder Management, Decision Intelligence, Risk Analysis, Technology Strategies, Cost Benefit Analysis, Regulation and Legal Compliance, Leadership and Management, Risk Management

    ★ 4.7 (86) · Intermediate · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks

    Status: Free Trial
    Free Trial
    Category: Credit offered
    Credit offered
  • O

    O.P. Jindal Global University

    M.A. Public Policy

    Skills you'll gain: Econometrics, Surveys, Data Ethics, R (Software), Environmental Laws, Social Sciences, Research Reports, Social Determinants Of Health, Matplotlib, Public Policies, Research Methodologies, Political Sciences, Policy Development, Economics, Policy, and Social Studies, Economic Development, Financial Policy, Diplomacy, International Relations, Economics, Climate Change Adaptation

    Degree · 1 - 4 Years

    Category: Earn a degree
    Earn a degree
  • O

    O.P. Jindal Global University

    Ethics in Public Policy

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

    ★ 4.4 (25) · Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months

    Status: Free Trial
    Free Trial
    Category: Credit offered
    Credit offered
  • I

    IE Business School

    Understanding economic policymaking

    Skills you'll gain: Financial Policy, Public Policies, Economics, Economics, Policy, and Social Studies, Economic Development, Policy Development, Tax, International Finance, Policy Analysis, Crisis Management, Fiscal Management, Financial Systems, Financial Market, Growth Strategies

    ★ 4.8 (1.1K) · Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months

    Status: Free Trial
    Free Trial
    Category: Credit offered
    Credit offered
  • O

    O.P. Jindal Global University

    Complexity and Public Policy

    Skills you'll gain: Systems Thinking, Complex Problem Solving, Policty Analysis, Research, and Development, Policy Analysis, Policy Development, Economics, Policy, and Social Studies, Public Policies, Health Policy, Climate Change Programs, Program Evaluation, Sustainable Development, Agentic systems, Environmental Issue, Social Sciences, Human Services, Economics, Ethical Standards And Conduct, Data Storytelling

    Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months

    Category: Preview
    Preview
    Category: Build toward a degree
    Build toward a degree
  • U

    University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign

    Personalized Nutrition, Policy, and Food Regulations

    Skills you'll gain: Health Equity, Health Disparities, Nutrition and Diet, Good Manufacturing Practices, Food Quality Assurance And Control, Nutrition Education, AI Personalization, Food Safety and Sanitation, Policy Development, Clinical Nutrition, Regulatory Affairs, Public Health, Regulatory Compliance, Health Policy, Health Informatics, Advocacy, Health Assessment, Health Technology, Microbiology, Case Studies

    ★ 4.6 (54) · Intermediate · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months

    Status: Free Trial
    Free Trial
    Category: Credit offered
    Credit offered
1234…258

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
  • Law, Governance, and Public Policy: O.P. Jindal Global University
  • Data Analytics in the Public Sector with R: University of Michigan
  • Making Public Policies Work: The Last-mile Delivery: Tata Institute of Social Sciences
  • Generative AI: Governance, Policy, and Emerging Regulation: University of Michigan
  • M.A. Public Policy: O.P. Jindal Global University
  • Ethics in Public Policy: O.P. Jindal Global University
  • Understanding economic policymaking: IE Business School

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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