Economics for Public Policy

Overview

If you are involved in public policy, then you are likely to encounter professional economists and/or their reports. 

This Economics for Public Policy programme from University of Oxford  aims to prepare you for this interaction by introducing you to the language and concepts of economics for public policy and by encouraging you to become a critical consumer of economic analysis.

Delivered by the Blavatnik School of Government, this eight-week online short course will explore what markets can achieve, why they sometimes fail, and what governments can do in response. You will also learn how governments can raise revenue through taxation and alleviate shocks to the macro economy.

The learning outcomes include:

• being able to explain what ‘mainstream economics’ is, identifying relevant applications and appreciating the limitations of this approach;  

• understanding the economic rationale for government intervention in a variety of global settings and critically appraising specific policy responses; and 

• appreciating the challenges associated with the design and finance of public policy, both in theory and practice

Upon successful completion of the course, you will understand how to apply economic theory in a policy formulation context, a practical skill that will have immediate benefits to your career. You will receive a certificate that will support your career progression and enhance your resume.

This course is also certified by the CPD UK's (Continuing Professional Development) Certification Service. Learners will be able to request their CPD certificate after successfully finishing the course, using their certificate of completion as proof of eligibility. The course has an estimated 40 hours of learning, equating to 40 CPD points. 

Note, the onus is on students to request these CPD certificates at the end of their studies. The University and partners accept no responsibility, and cannot be held responsible, for the claiming or validation of hours or points.