POLS 2003 COINT
Introduction to Public Policy and the Public Good
What does it mean to be part of "the public," and what role should government play in a liberal democratic society? This fully online, asynchronous course explores how public policy gets made in Canada, from the moment an issue first emerges to the point where policies are designed, delivered, and evaluated. You'll learn how problems get framed, how priorities are set, who holds influence, and why some ideas take hold while others never make it onto the agenda. Along the way, you'll examine the actors, institutions, and ideas that shape the decisions affecting our everyday lives, from health care and social supports to the environment and beyond.
This course is for anyone who has ever wondered why governments act the way they do, or how they could do better. Rather than simply studying policy, you'll put your learning into practice by developing your own policy proposal, building skills in research, critical evaluation of evidence, and persuasive argument that are valuable in politics, public administration, advocacy, and many other careers. Whether you're aiming for a career in the public sector or simply want to be a more informed and engaged citizen, this course will give you the tools to understand and shape the policies that matter to you.
This course is part of the Certificate in Democratic Leadership.
Instructor: Kate Mattocks
Prerequisites: Second-year standing, or permission of the instructor.
Course Type: Online; Continuous-intake. Register anytime and learn at your own pace