Unit Code: APS701

Unit Name: Public Policy Processes and Politics

Description: This course subscribes to a growing global awareness of the need for education on how policy is formulated and implemented (including ways in which these processes could be improved) to enhance the capacity of governments to deliver sustainable and equitable development in the contexts of neo-liberalization and democratization. The word ?government? generally refers to central, local or regional administration of public affairs including policies, but in its broader definition, the term may refer to the management of public policy areas such as health, education, economic affairs, etc. These public policy ?fields? have wide ranging and significant impacts on society at large: the citizenry, key social groups and individuals. The purpose of this unit is to provide an academically sound foundation for students interested in specializing in public policy formulation and analysis. This course defines public policy as ?the course of government action to solve public problems. Governments exist to provide leadership at the national level and to solve public problems cost effectively. The course seeks to develop students? understanding of the important issues in policy formulation and implementation. It also examines the power of organized interests and resource allocation in the policy processes of developing countries.

Learning Target Outcomes:

Prerequisite: APS605, APS606

Prerequisite Sentence: N/A

Credit Point: 15

Offered In: Semester 1