Public Policy Evaluation

The Public Policy Evaluation micro-credential is delivered by DCU’s School of Law and Government and is designed for people who want to add policy evaluation techniques and skills to their existing experience.

The need for more evidence-informed decisions in government is a regular theme of public service reform programmes, and recent initiatives have emphasised the need to enhance evaluation capacity within government and public service organisations. This micro-credential module provides an overview of the link between evaluation exercises and wider policy-making processes, evaluation and implementation, the emphases of different evaluation exercises and approaches, and related approaches such as process evaluation and performance measurement systems. The micro-credential module also explores ways evaluation findings might contribute more to policy-making. The micro-credential module complements other modules in the MSc in Public Policy programme by giving participants a firm understanding of the principles of evaluation and different evaluation approaches and purposes. By exploring these themes, participants gain a deeper critical understanding of different approaches to policy evaluation and the role evaluation can play in the policy-making process.

This level 9, micro-credential module is provided through online distance learning, which means that students can achieve a deeper understanding in a specialist area and provide a sound basis for their long-term career, without disruption to their career or other commitments.

This module is a stand-alone micro-credential, worth 10 credits, and can be taken individually or as part of the MSc in Public Policy programme.

The Public Policy Evaluation micro-credential module, taking place online over 12 weeks on a weekday evening, from 6pm – 8.00pm, January to April 2025.

The micro-credential covers the place of evaluation within the policy-making process and different approaches to policy-making and the different uses, purposes and emphasis of evaluation exercises. In addition, the micro-credential reviews insights from established process evaluation techniques and the strengths and limitations of different evaluation approaches. The micro-credential is relevant to anyone wishing to acquire or deepen their knowledge of evaluation findings and research can be integrated into the policy process.

— 100% online, no attendance requirements

— 100% continuous assessment

— Contributes to Level 9 qualification, MSc in Public Policy

• A degree at the level of an Irish or UK Honours undergraduate degree (H2.2 or above) or equivalent, 
• Applicants with appropriate combinations of professional qualifications and experience may also be considered. This includes discipline-specific knowledge and know-how; transferable skills; basic research competency; personal effectiveness. 
• International candidates who are non-native speakers of English must satisfy the University of their competency in the English language.

When you apply, you will need to provide the following documents:

1.  A scanned copy of your passport
2. Certified Academic Transcripts for each and every year of study with English translation, if applicable 
   (2.1) For applicants who do not possess a H2.2 undergraduate degree a 500-750 word (max) personal statement including why you wish to study the module and detailing your relevant experience must be provided
3. If applicable, applicants must provide evidence of competence in the English language as per DCU entry requirements.  Please see this link for details.

For further information and academic queries about the programme please contact: deiric.obroin@dcu.ie