Overview
The Policy Analysis and Communications Seminar is designed for mid- to senior-level professionals from all backgrounds interested in translating data and innovation into communicable, impactful policy recommendations.
- Researchers and professors in the applied and hard sciences who have policy impact component in their grant
- Physicians and practitioners who wish to effectuate change in healthcare
- Government or industry professionals working on energy, social, technology, and education issues who seek to create policy-oriented solutions
- Executives involved in strategic and operational roles
Seminars
- Introduction to Public Policy
Delve into the foundations of public policy and understand its evolution, significance, and role in society. Analyze the interplay between politics, economics, and social factors in shaping public policies. - Identifying Public Policy Problems and Selecting Relevant Data
Learn how to identify pressing societal issues and select appropriate data sources and methodologies for rigorous analysis. Emphasize the importance of evidence-based policymaking. - Recognizing Key Stakeholders
Investigate the intricate web of stakeholders in the policy arena, from government agencies and advocacy groups to the private sector and the general public. Understand their diverse interests and influence on policy outcomes. - Assessing the Policy Landscape
Develop the skills to assess the current policy landscape, including existing regulations, policies, and their effectiveness. Examine the role of historical context in shaping contemporary policy challenges. - Fiscal Policy Issues
Explore the complex relationship between federal, state, and local governments, focusing on how they shape and implement policy. Gain insights into economic indicators, state and local fiscal policy budgets, and their implications for policy formulation and evaluation. - Policy Mapping and Solutions
Deep dive into policy evaluation techniques, including policy mapping, impact assessment, and cost-benefit analysis. Explore methods to assess the effectiveness and efficiency of policies. - Policy Implementation and Challenges
Consider how financial and administrative resources along with ethical implications influence policy options. Learn to identify crucial processes for ensuring policy success and sustainability while formulating evidence-based recommendations by interpreting multiple variables. - Communicating the Value of Your Policy
Master the art of effective policy communications. Develop persuasive strategies to convey policy recommendations to diverse audiences, including policymakers, stakeholders, and the public.
Applied Exercises
Throughout the course, participants will workshop their own policy issue through a series of guided assignments focused on the core skills of effective policy analysis and communication. Exercises include defining and framing policy problems, mapping relevant stakeholders, assessing evidence-based alternatives, developing strategic recommendations, and crafting an executive summary. Participants will also have the opportunity to apply their skills in a simulated mock media interview – gaining practical experience delivering clear and impactful messages to diverse audiences.
Final Policy Brief
Participants will produce a high-quality, publishable policy brief that includes a clear problem statement, rigorous analysis of policy alternatives, and actionable recommendations. Participants will receive structured feedback from Baker Institute experts and peer review over the course of the seminar.
John W. Diamond, Ph.D.
Edward A. and Hermena Hancock Kelly Senior Fellow in Tax and Budget Policy
Director, Baker Institute Center for Tax and Budget Policy
Ed Emmett
Fellow in Energy and Transportation Policy
Center for Energy Studies Lead, Transportation
Victoria Jupp
Director, James A. Baker III Policy Leadership Program, Baker Institute
Christopher F. Kulesza, Ph.D.
Rice Faculty, Social Policy Evaluation
Sandra McKay, M.D.
Associate Professor, Department of Pediatrics
McGovern Medical School at UTHealth Houston
Shannon Moriarty
Director of Communications, Baker Institute
Katharine Neill Harris, Ph.D.
Alfred C. Glassell, III, Fellow in Drug Policy
The Honorable David M. Satterfield
Director, Baker Institute for Public Policy
Janice and Robert McNair Chair in Public Policy
How long is the program?
Participants meet once a week from August 31 to November 16, 2027. Sessions are held Tuesdays from noon to 2:00 pm. Catered lunch is provided.
What project will I work on throughout the program?
Participants will work on the policy questions identified in their one-page statement of purpose and gain skills to produce a high-quality, publishable policy brief throughout the seminar.
What mentorship and professional development opportunities will I receive?
A policy advisor and communications professionals will provide substantive feedback on your project.
How many participants will be in the cohort?
The Policy Analysis and Communications Seminar will comprise no more than 20 participants.
How many hours should I commit to the program?
The program requires 48 completed contact hours:
- 20 spent in classroom instruction (in-person).
- 24 hours spent in virtual instruction (3 hours weekly).
- 4 hours spent in policy brief development sessions.
What are the program benefits?
Participants who complete the program will earn:
- A certificate of completion demonstrating satisfactory fulfillment of program requirements and skills.*
- A high-quality, nonpartisan policy brief developed with tools, skills, and mentorship acquired from
experts at the world’s leading university-affiliated nonpartisan policy research organization. - Networking, research, and co-collaboration opportunities with Baker Institute experts and affiliated partners.
*Participation in the Policy Analysis and Communications Seminar does not satisfy credits needed for a Rice University academic degree program.