Public Policy — the actions of government and its partners in the nonprofit and private sectors — is the keystone of politics and public administration. The creation, adoption and implementation of public policy is a complex process that requires skills in analysis, reasoning and argumentation — what we call evidence-based policy advocacy. Make the most of your skills by gaining tools to advocate for realistic, effective and responsible public policy.

More Information

Policy Analysis Program Website

Application Information

• Current NC State Graduate Students only need to fill out the “Graduate Student Certificate Plan Data Entry” form and submit it to the Policy Analysis Program Coordinator, Dr. Jeff Diebold at jcdiebol@ncsu.edu to apply to add the certificate program. Applicants must be currently enrolled and in good standing.
• Certificate-Only Students (non-degree or non-NC State graduate students) will fill out an application through the Graduate School.

Applicants must have a bachelor’s degree with at least a 3.0 (on a 4.0 scale) in the last two years (last 60 credits) of undergraduate study and will submit transcripts as part of their application.

Applicant Information

• Delivery Method: On-Campus
• Entrance Exam: None
• Interview Required: None

Application Deadlines

The certificate program enrolls year-round (Fall, Spring, and Summer semesters) provided courses are available. Applications will be reviewed after the deadline.

• Fall: May 1
• Spring and Summer: December 1

Plan Requirements

Course List

Code	Title	Hours	Counts towards
Required Courses		15
PA 507	The Public Policy Process
PA 509	Applied Political Economy
PA 511	Public Policy Analysis
Select two electives 1
Total Hours		15

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Policy courses from any program - approved by coordinator

Faculty