Public Administration: Policy Analysis&Program Eval (A)

About PA 6110 A

A seminar providing hands-on knowledge in policy analysis and program evaluation using case studies of current analysis projects and problems. Specific techniques include planning, survey administration, forecasting, cost benefit analysis, and impact assessment.

Notes

Open to Grad and PACE students only. Interested undergrad students, please contact Lindsey.Bouzan@uvm.edu for permission and override. System waitlisting enabled for this section.

Section Description

This course introduces students to the theories and methods used to assess public policies and development programs. The course emphasizes causal inference, empirical evaluation, and evidence-based decision-making. Students learn how to formulate policy-relevant research questions, identify appropriate evaluation strategies, and interpret findings from experimental and observational data. Topics include program evaluation, treatment effects, selection bias, regression-based methods, matching techniques, and the use of empirical evidence to inform policy design and implementation.

Section Expectation

Students are expected to engage actively with course readings, participate in class discussions and laboratory exercises, and complete applied assignments using real-world data. The course requires critical thinking, quantitative reasoning, and a willingness to evaluate competing methodological approaches. Students should come prepared to discuss assigned materials, interpret empirical results, and communicate policy implications clearly. Regular attendance and timely completion of assignments are essential, as concepts build progressively throughout the semester.

Evaluation

Student performance will be assessed through a combination of homework assignments, applied data analysis exercises, midterm exam, class participation, and a term paper. Assignments emphasize the practical application of evaluation methods and the interpretation of empirical evidence. Students will be evaluated on their ability to apply analytical techniques correctly, critically assess the validity of findings, and communicate results in a clear and policy-relevant manner. Active engagement with course materials and class activities is an important component of overall course success.

Important Dates

Note: These dates may change before registration begins.

Courses may be cancelled due to low enrollment. Show your interest by enrolling.

Resources

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• Textbooks