Applied Methods

MPP 629

(3 units)

The objective of this course is to train students in analytical methods that can be applied to a wide array of policy issues. This course will examine different approaches to policy analysis and discuss ways to account for uncertainty in the decision-making process. The student will study a variety of analytical tools such as cost-benefit analysis, program evaluation, and simulation models that can be used to inform the understanding of policy problems and proposed interventions. This course will combine literature review with hands-on modeling. Students will learn to construct simulation models to understand emerging patterns such as the spread of infectious diseases and neighborhood segregation. Students are expected to complete a number of homework assignments to demonstrate mastery of the methods taught, but a large part of the course grade will be based on a student project where students develop their own models in an area of interest.