Data & Methods for Policy Analysis

The objective of this course is to provide students with the knowledge and skills required to undertake policy analysis in a professional setting. The skills acquired on this course are intended to prepare students to undertake internships, complete a research thesis and commence careers in policy related roles.



Key topics covered in the module include:

• The availability and accessibility of key data sources for national, international, and comparative policy analysis.

• The principal methods used to gather qualitative and quantitative data for policy analysis.

• How to formulate a policy research question and write a policy report.

• How to critically evaluate a policy report.

Module/Trimester/Credits



Stage 1 Core Modules

SPOL41020 Data & Methods for Policy Analysis Autumn 10

Entry requirements will be identical to those obtaining for the current Public Policy programme intake (full-time and part-time):



The academic minimum standard for admission to a Masters programme is an Upper Second Class degree or its equivalent. Relevant professional experience and motivation will be considered where the first degree was taken in a field with little or no relevance to the social sciences, or where the first degree was taken a long time ago (eg more than ten years prior to application).



Relevant professional experience and motivation may also be taken into account in the case of students who have not attained the minimum academic standards: in this case, they may be offered a place on the Graduate Diploma programme, with the possibility of transferring to the MP, subject to academic performance and grades attained.



You may be eligible for Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL), as UCD recognises formal, informal, and/or experiential learning. RPL may be awarded to gain Admission and/or credit exemptions on a programme. Please visit the UCD Registry RPL web page for further information at: https://www.ucd.ie/registry/prospectivestudents/admissions/rpl/ Any exceptions are also listed on this webpage.

Online Application.



Who Should Apply?

Part Time option suitable for:

Domestic(EEA) applicants: Yes

International (Non EEA) applicants: No

4 months part-time.

W466: Professional Certificate in Data & Methods for Policy Analysis Part-Time

Commencing September 2026

Graduate Taught