Data Analytics in Public Affairs Certificate Program

Learn how to analyze, visualize and communicate data insights to internal and external stakeholders to assist in public policy decision-making.

Courses

4 Required

Methods

Online

F-1 Visa Eligible

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This program is perfect for...

Policy advisors and urban planners who need to leverage big data to drive governance and community development initiatives

Public affairs professionals looking to enhance their understanding of data and their ability to share it in meaningful ways

Public Administrators who want to better bridge the gap between data analytics teams and executive leadership

Data analysts and programmers seeking to transition into policy roles

What you can learn.

Gain an overview of advanced technologies and their relevance to 21st century governance and community development

Examine the ethical implications in using big data and data analytics for governance and community development projects

Craft persuasive narratives, develop compelling presentations, and leverage storytelling techniques to engage and inspire audiences

Learn how to load, clean, analyze and visualize policy relevant datasets using Python, the world’s most popular programming language

Use spatial data analysis—examining locations, attributes, and relationships—to address a question or gain knowledge

Data-Driven Decision Making

The Data Analytics in Public Affairs Certificate program, created in partnership with UCLA's Luskin School of Public Affairs, is designed for professionals working in public policy, planning, and social services arenas who want to gain a deeper understanding of how big data and digital technologies can be used to offer public services in more just and efficient ways. As companies around the world collect more and more data, they in turn expect their staff to understand, analyze and visually present these figures in meaningful contexts. Students who complete the program will possess the knowledge and skills needed to meet industry needs. No data analytics experience is necessary to start this program.

Courses are taught by instructors with extensive teaching and research backgrounds and direct data policy experience.

Format: Online
Duration: 6 months (full-time), 1 year (part-time)

Degree Applicability

Up to two courses completed as part of the DAPA certificate may be applied toward select Luskin School of Public Affairs degree programs, subject to program requirements and approval.

100% Student Approved

Students who completed the certificate were polled, and 100% of respondents reported high satisfaction with instructors, confirmed the acquisition of practical, applicable skills, and said that they would recommend the certificate to colleagues.

What Our Students Are Saying

“The program enhanced my ability to translate data into actionable, policy-relevant insights. It goes beyond technical skills to emphasize how data influences policy, operations, and community results. I now have a much deeper understanding of how data systems work at scale and how they influence outcomes, often in unexpected ways.”

L.A. County Internal Services Employee

“This course [Ethics, AI, and the Data Society] was by far the most informative, engaging and life-altering course I have ever participated in. I never experienced such level of inclusion in any of my undergrad classes. [Introduction to Programming and Data Science is] also an absolutely, beyond compare course.”

L.A. County District Attorney’s Office Employee

Upcoming Information Session

Join us for an upcoming information session where you can learn more about the program!

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Cost and Fees

All courses in this program are paid for individually, unless otherwise noted. An application form is required to establish candidacy in this program. From the 'Apply Now' button, complete the online application and pay the application fee if applicable.

Application and Candidacy Fee

$200

Estimated Textbooks and Materials

N/A

Estimated Program Tuition

$12000

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Payment Options

Not eligible for VA Benefit
Federal Financial Aid is not available

Required Courses

Customize your experience

Artificial Intelligence and Advanced Technologies in Public Affairs

Learn advanced technologies important to governance and community development. Gain an understanding of AI, blockchain, autonomous vehicles, drones, VR/AR, 5G technology, and cybersecurity technologies necessary to protect against hacking.

Ethics, AI, and the Data Society

Examine ethical issues related to big data/analytics in governance and community development. Topics include balancing public good/privacy, preventing misuse, predictive policing, addressing AI’s role in systemic bias & ensuring equitable outcomes.

Data Visualization

Explore the strategies and techniques for driving the adoption and utilization of data visualizations. Learn how to craft persuasive narratives, engage stakeholders, and build trust with tailored visualizations.

Data Science Requirement

Students must take one of the following courses.

Introduction to Programming and Data Science

An introduction to data analysis and programming using Python, students will learn how to load, clean, and manipulate spreadsheets along with foundational Python programming concepts.

GIS and Spatial Data Science

Understand the foundations of spatial data science using Python. Examine the components of data’s journey—acquisition, exploration, modeling, and communication through visualization—to advance policy analysis.

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