Quantitative Methods of Policy Analysis: ENVS 5120

Course Description & Objectives

This is a graduate level course in the Environmental Studies Program at the University of Colorado. This seminar will provide students with practical knowledge and skill sets that are commonly used in the professional world of policymaking and policy analysis. Some of this practical knowledge includes: how governments and other key participants in the policy process are structured, which mandates drive federal policy analysis, basic economic principles, and government budgeting. Some of these practical skill sets include: basic research design, cost-benefit analysis, risk assessment, and survey design and sampling. A crosscutting emphasis throughout the course will be on increasing the economy and effectiveness of students’ writing, speaking, and presenting of technical information to decision makers.

Upon completion of this course, students should communicate more thoughtfully and efficiently, will be more knowledgeable about practical policy analysis methods that can serve them in a variety of professional roles, and should understand the basic advantages and flaws of different methodologies commonly used in professional policy practice.