SUS 7030 - Research Methods & Policy Evaluation

(4 units)

This course focuses on the use of research methods, performance management, informational technology, ethics, and development theories in order to assess public and non-profit organizations and their policy decisions and program outcomes. Through the use of service focused evaluation projects, students use tools of program evaluation as well as quantitative and qualitative research methods to answer important organizational questions related to process, outputs, outcomes, and resources. Students will also learn and apply information on management ethics, citizen rights and protections, and confidentiality in research and policy evaluation. Strategic Planning, SWOT analysis, PEST analysis, and other popular assessment and decision making tools will be introduced. Finally, the course will expose students to assessment tools used in sustainable development and practice modification of existing tools of public administration for use in achieving goals of sustainability.