For-Credit Spring Graduate Course

Applied Policy Analysis and Program Evaluation:
Real-World Decision Making


March 14-March 21, 2026
Paris, France

European Commission

OECD

                                                                                                   


The University of Maryland School of Public Policy will offer a for-credit international graduate course on the tools of policy analysis and program evaluation. Classroom instruction will be provided by course instructors and guest faculty---complemented by meetings with senior officials of the European Commission, the European Court of Auditors, the European Investment Bank, the European Parliamentary Research Service, EuroStat, and the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD).

Classes will be held from March 14-21, 2026 beginning in Paris, France (at the OECD and other Paris locations) followed by Luxembourg (at the European Investment Bank and European Court of Auditors) and Brussels (at the European Commission and European Parliamentary Research Service).

This course is a three-credit, stand-alone course for doctoral, master’s level, and advanced undergraduate students studying social policy-related subjects such as economics, education, international development, political science/governance, public administration, public health, public policy, social welfare, sociology, and urban planning. Mid-career professionals may also take the course.

There is also a non-credit option for mid-career professionals who are interested in learning the material and attending classes, but who do not want to complete the graded coursework.

Applications will be accepted through September 30, 2025. A full description of the course can be found by clicking on the course announcement below. For now, those interested in registering should contact Douglas M. Call




                           

Student Testimonials:


Morgan Williams (2019): "Over the span of two weeks, I learned valuable policy research skills, networked with experts, was introduced to various career paths in public policy and explored Paris. The unique opportunity to write a policy analysis for researchers at the OECD allowed me to apply the skills I learned in the course into a report that ultimately inspired my current career in the same organization."
Katie Bemb (2023): "I absolutely loved my experience studying abroad in Paris with Professors Besharov and Call. The course was wonderfully organized with impressive and knowledgeable guest speakers and panels at European agencies in Paris, Brussels and Luxembourg City. Even with the study abroad element aside, this was my favorite course I've taken so far in my master's program. I've already found myself scrutinizing reports and programs more closely. Would recommend to anyone who asks!"

European Court of Auditors

Sciences Po

European Commission