This module is not currently running in 2024 to 2025.
Public policy analysis is a problem-oriented, multidisciplinary, and value-oriented system of analysing policy, both for descriptive and prescriptive ends. The methods used stretch over several disciplines, but this course aims to introduce the approach to policy analysis practiced in political science. It divides the policy process in phases and presents the most important theoretical approaches and research results that illuminate the specific features of each moment in the policy cycle, from the setting of an agenda, through decision-making, to the implementation and evaluation of policy. Contrasting theoretical approaches are presented as reflections of a tension between policy analysis for policy and about policy. The student acquires critical tools for a better understanding of present day policy analysis and the relative advantages and disadvantages of different approaches, which are then applied in the preparation of a model policy analysis.
The course introduces the policy cycle approach. Subsequently, major approaches to public policy analysis are introduced and evaluated in view of their explanatory strengths and weaknesses. The course then offers an in depth discussion of each policy phase in the cycle, highlighting key theoretical and empirical contributions relevant to the policy phase under scrutiny. While learning the policy cycle approach, we will concentrate on key concepts and case studies, aimed at the furthering of critical skills needed for contextual and fine analysis of policy. The course offers students a framework to conduct their own research on a policy or policy reform/change. Students need to apply the policy cycle approach to a concrete case study, in the form of a Briefing Note.
Total contact hours:
Private study hours:
Total study hours: 200
Learning and teaching methods are set by the VUB (Free University Brussels) in accordance with its own rules and regulations. Collectively, the learning and teaching methods will enable to students to achieve the intended specific and generic learning outcomes of this module and students will undertake a period of study at VUB equivalent to that required for 20 Kent credits.
Normally, contact will consist of a mix of lectures and seminars however, students are strongly encouraged to refer to the module guide for more detailed information.
Pass/Fail
Assessment methods are set by the partner institution in accordance with its own rules and regulations and may vary year-to-year. Assessments may include an individually written essays; group presentations; discussions and debates. Students should refer to the module guide for more detailed information.
Collectively, the assessment methods will assess the achievement of all of the module's intended specific and generic learning outcomes. Kent will assess the module on a pass/fail basis therefore, credit achieved for this module will be contributory to the student's degree programme but will not contribute to the degree classification.
Reassessment methods: 100% coursework
Reading list (Indicative list, current at time of publication. Reading lists will be published annually)
Thomas A. Birkland, An Introduction to the Policy Process: Theories, Concepts, and Models of Public Policy Making, M. E. Sharpe, 2011 (Third edition).
Marcus Carson, Tom R. Burns, Dolores Calvo (eds.), Paradigms in Public Policy: Theory and Practice of Paradigm Shifts in the EU, Peter Lang, 2010 (New edition).
William N. Dunn, Public Policy Analysis: An Introduction, Pearson, Prentice Hall, New Jersey, 2011 (Fifth Edition).
Michael Hill, The Public Policy Process, Pearson Longman, 2013 (Sixth Edition).
Michael Moran, Martin Rein, Robert Goodin (eds.), The Oxford Handbook of Public Policy, Oxford University Press, 2006.
See the library reading list for this module (Canterbury)
The intended subject specific learning outcomes. On successfully completing the module students will be able to:
1. Demonstrate advanced knowledge of the history of policy analysis and the most common approaches in political science;
2. Demonstrate strong familiarity with different methods in policy analysis and the advantages and disadvantages;
3. Discuss critically examples of current practice and research in policy;
4. Demonstrate advanced skills in the preparation and presentation of a briefing note.
5. Demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of methods and methodologies in their discipline;
The intended generic learning outcomes. On successfully completing the module students will be able to:
1. Apply complex theoretical knowledge at the forefront of their discipline;
2. Undertake analysis of complex, incomplete or contradictory areas of knowledge;
3. Critically evaluate research; advanced scholarship and methodologies and argue alternative approaches;
4. Be reflective and self-critical in their research work;
5. Engage in academic and professional communication orally and in writing.
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