Accelerated Online Policy Design and Analysis Graduate Certificate

Essential Skills & Insights

Coursework in this online policy design and analysis certificate program provides professionals with targeted expertise in evaluating, developing, and implementing effective policies. The curriculum emphasizes analytical skills, ethical frameworks, and the application of emerging tools such as AI and data modeling in policy contexts.

• Policy Development & Evaluation: Learn frameworks to create, assess, and refine public policies that address community and organizational needs.
• Data-Driven Policy Analysis: Build skills to interpret and apply data in decision-making, forecasting, and policy outcomes.
• Ethics & Public Responsibility: Understand the ethical dimensions of policymaking and the responsibility of serving diverse communities.
• Communication & Stakeholder Engagement: Gain expertise in presenting policy recommendations clearly to stakeholders, leaders, and the public.

AI-Powered Learning, Real-World Impact

Our accelerated online programs integrate opportunities to engage with Artificial Intelligence (AI) as a powerful tool for learning and career preparation. Students apply AI in ways that build authentic skills and mirror how businesses are leveraging it across industries. We emphasize ethical and responsible use, ensuring that students develop the judgment to apply AI appropriately. This approach helps graduates enter the workforce with both technical knowledge and a clear understanding of AI’s role in their discipline.

Careers in Policy Design and Analysis

A graduate certificate in policy design and analysis equips professionals to strengthen their expertise in governance, nonprofits, research, and advocacy. It is especially valuable for those seeking advancement or specialization in roles that shape policy decisions.

• Policy Analyst — Median salary: $85,000
  Research and evaluate policies, using data and evidence to make recommendations that guide decision-making.
• Program Evaluator — Median salary: $78,000
  Assess the effectiveness of public or nonprofit programs and recommend improvements to maximize impact.
• Legislative or Public Affairs Assistant — Median salary: $70,000+
  Support lawmakers or advocacy organizations by analyzing proposals, drafting reports, and engaging stakeholders.

Admissions Requirements

For admission to your Accelerated Online Graduate Certificate in Policy Design and Analysis, simply complete the 2 step application process transcripts.

1. Complete the Graduate Admissions Online Application by visiting my.lindenwood.edu/register 
2. Request official transcripts from your undergraduate institution(s) showing a cumulative GPA of 2.5 or higher.
   
   Only transcripts with the final degree posted are required if you attended multiple institutions.
   
   Request your official transcript to be sent directly to Lindenwood University Accelerated Online via one of the methods below:
   • Electronically to: [email protected]
   • By Mail to:
     Office of Admissions
     Lindenwood University Accelerated Online
     8205 S Priest Dr #11480
     Tempe, AZ 85284
   • By Fax to: 480-393-1826

Curriculum Overview

Lindenwood University’s accelerated online Graduate Certificate in Policy Design and Analysis equips professionals with the analytical and strategic skills needed to address today’s complex policy challenges. Drawing on coursework from our Master of Public Administration (MPA) program, this certificate blends theory with practice to prepare students to design effective policies, evaluate outcomes, and ensure accountability in government and nonprofit organizations.

The Graduate Certificate in Policy Design and Analysis equips professionals with the analytical and strategic skills needed to address today’s complex policy challenges. Drawing on coursework from our Master of Public Administration (MPA) program, this certificate blends theory with practice to prepare students to design effective policies, evaluate outcomes, and ensure accountability in government and nonprofit organizations.

Major Coursework – 18 Credit Hours

Public Administration: Principles, Applications and Ethics

You will learn core theories underlying public administration. In addition, you will examine ethical issues relative to specific federal and state laws and ethical challenges in public administration.

Government Institutions: Performance and Accountability

This course addresses issues associated with governmental reform, and how agencies are held accountable for performance and outcomes. You will explore systems of performance measurement as these apply to public administration.

Program Implementation and Evaluation

This course addresses issues associated with governmental reform, and how agencies are held accountable for performance and outcomes. You will explore systems of performance measurement as these apply to public administration.

Policy Design and Analysis

You will develop policy analysis skills and learn to apply these to a wide range of social policies. You will learn how policy analysis holds promise for strengthening public policy, as well as its limitations in ensuring that policy is sound and effective.

Data Collection and Evaluation

This course addresses how to find, interpret, and apply governmental data. You will become familiar with the strengths and limitations of available data as a tool for determining effective public policy.

Policy and Budgetary Forecasting

You will learn how government agencies make projections for budgets. Students will develop skills to forecast impacts of policy on budgets for a wide range of public issues.

Program Length Details

Lindenwood University’s (LU) Accelerated Online programs offer you choice and flexibility to support your education journey. Time to complete a master’s degree can vary based on course load, transfer credits, and individual pacing. You will tailor a course schedule that keeps you in the driver’s seat.

• Transfer Credit: LU allows 9 transfer credits toward a master’s degree and you can complete your degree in as few as 27 credits.
• Accelerated Courses: LU’s online programs offer 10 5-week terms per year.  By enrolling in two courses per term, you can potentially begin and complete your master’s degree in 9 months.
• Frequent Start Dates: LU offers multiple start dates throughout the year so you can begin your studies when you are ready allowing you to graduate sooner.
• Personalized Degree Plan: LU academic advisors will work with you to tailor your degree plan to support your education goals while balancing your personal and professional responsibilities.