Public Policy Analysis

Overview

Key facts

These are some of the important questions this course addresses using theories and methods of public policy analysis using a global lens.

Designed to give you a comprehensive introduction to theories, approaches, and methods for public policy analysis, this course examines how politics and institutions shape public policy, the processes of public policy change, and the challenges of public sector management. Engaging with cutting edge research you will be introduced to fundamental social-scientific concepts like power, collective action, institutions, and accountability and in line with LSE’s uniquely global perspective, you will consider their application using examples from countries around the world.

A specific focus of London School of Economics and Political Science's Public Policy Analysis course will be on providing you with useful tools for evaluating policy impact and effectiveness. As a result, you will understand the tradeoffs involved in the design of policies and institutions; the influence of factors like partisanship, policy ideas, and globalisation. You will also examine the effectiveness of reforms that attempt to improve government efficiency and representation, accelerate transitions to sustainability, and govern rapidly emerging technologies. By the end of the course, you will have the conceptual tools to be able to analyse specific policy issue areas and understand the complex forces that shape policy change.