Science Policy Graduate Certificate

Program Overview

The Graduate Certificate in Science Policy bridges the gap between scientific study and public policy, preparing students to navigate the intersection of science and governmental decision-making. Through core courses and elective options in both science and policy, graduates gain a comprehensive understanding of science policy and develop skills for effectively communicating scientific information to policymakers and the public. Graduates are equipped to pursue careers as liaisons between scientists and policymakers, policy analysts, or science communicators.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

The Graduate Certificate in Science Policy aims to bridge the gap between public policy and scientific study. It focuses on improving the creation and implementation of federal policies related to scientific research and the governmental functions that oversee it. The program recognizes that science students often lack policy knowledge, while policy students may lack the technical understanding of scientific data.

Objectives:

• To understand how scientific research is guided by government policy considerations, particularly funding.
• To learn how research is prioritized and overseen by federal agencies.
• To develop scientific analytical skills for interpreting policies and government functions.

Outline:

Core Courses:

• COS 510 Introduction to Science Policy (3 credits): This course provides a foundational understanding of science policy, exploring its history, key concepts, and current issues.
• COS 515 Science Policy Internship Preparation (1 credit): This course prepares students for their internship experience, focusing on professional development, networking, and internship search strategies.
• EVPP 529 Environmental Science Communication (3 credits): This course examines effective communication strategies for conveying scientific information to diverse audiences, including policymakers and the public.
• POGO 794 Internship (13 credits): This internship requires 120 clock hours in a federal government office.
Students must work in a position different from their current employment, applying the skills learned in the program. The internship is coordinated by the Program Director and evaluated by both the supervisor and the Program Director.

Elective Courses:

Students choose 6-7 credits from a range of science and policy courses at the 500-level or above. These courses must be pre-approved by the Program Director and include at least one technical science course and one policy course.

Technical Science Courses:

• CLIM 690 Scientific Basis of Climate Change
• GEOL 521 Geology of Energy Resources
• BIOL 562 Personalized Medicine
• BIOL 685 Emerging Infectious Diseases
• CHEM 560 Environmental Biotechnology
• CDS 502 Introduction to Scientific Data and Databases
• EVPP 533 Energy Policy
• EVPP 534 Food-Energy-Water Nexus
• EVPP 642 Environmental Policy
• FRSC 640 Legal, Privacy and Ethical Issues in Identity Analysis
• DFOR 768 Digital Warfare
• PHYS 581 Topics in Renewable Energy

Policy Courses:

• BIOD 609 Biodefense Strategy
• BIOD 706 Nuclear, Biological, and Chemical Weapons Policy and Security
• BIOD 760 National Security Technology and Policy
• GOVT 753 Collaborative Public Management
• POGO 611 Advanced Data Analysis for Policy and Government
• PUBP 500 Theory and Practice in Public Policy
• PUBP 605 State and Local Government Policy and Economic Development
• PUBP 707 Budget Decision Making: Concepts and Practices in Economic and Financial Analyses
• PUBP 760 Science and Technology Policy in the 21st Century
• PUBP 820 Technology, Science, and Innovation: Institutions and Governance

Assessment:

• Internship Evaluation: The internship is assessed by both the supervisor and the Program Director.
• Coursework: Students are assessed through a variety of methods, including assignments, exams, and participation in discussions.

Teaching:

• Faculty: The program is taught by faculty with expertise in both science and policy.
• Teaching Methods: The program utilizes a variety of teaching methods, including lectures, discussions, case studies, and simulations.

Careers:

• Liaisons between the scientific and political communities: Graduates can serve as intermediaries between scientists and policymakers, facilitating informed decision-making.
• Policy Analysts: Graduates can work in government agencies or non-profit organizations, analyzing policy issues and developing recommendations.
• Science Communicators: Graduates can work in science communication roles, translating complex scientific information for the public and policymakers.

Other:

• Program Director: The Program Director coordinates the internship placements and provides guidance to students.
• Full- or Part-Time Study: The certificate program can be pursued on a full- or part-time basis.
• Alternative Courses: Students may apply for approval to take alternative courses with the permission of the Program Director.