Political Science

This course introduces key concepts and frameworks in public policy, focusing on how policies are formulated, implemented, and evaluated. It provides insights on how issues make it onto the political agenda; when and how public policies are made; how their effects can be assessed; what makes them successful; and how public policies can be compared. The course explores different types of policies, the policy instruments governments use to influence societal outcomes, and the factors that drive policy change or stability to familiarize students with analytical tools used in policy research. In doing so, the course also examines the challenges of addressing complex, "wicked" problems that confront governments with particular challenges. In addition to general theories and approaches in public policy research, the course introduces selected policy areas, such as health, education, environmental, and social policy. The course equips students with the tools to analyze policy processes, assess government effectiveness, and critically engage with real-world policy challenges.