301.660.01
Connecting Public Health Research with the U.S. Policymaking Process

Location
East Baltimore
Term
4th Term
Department
Health Policy and Management
Credit(s)
3
Academic Year
2024 - 2025
Instruction Method
In-person
Class Time(s)
M, W, 9:00 - 10:20am
Auditors Allowed
Yes, with instructor consent
Available to Undergraduate
No
Grading Restriction
Letter Grade or Pass/Fail
Course Instructor(s)
Adam Levine
Contact Name
Adam Levine
Frequency Schedule
Every Year
Prerequisite

340.721 and 140.611-612 or 140.621-623

Description
Does public health research influence the policy-making process? What does it even mean for policy to be evidence-based? How would we know? What role can and should researchers play in that process? If you’ve ever wondered about questions like these, and are curious about how to answer them, then this class is for you.
Considers the contradictory role of public health research in the U.S. policy making process. Examines the question of when does research influence the policy-making process and how is it verified and what role can and should researchers play in the process.
Learning Objectives
Upon successfully completing this course, students will be able to:
  1. Discuss why evidence is important for policy
  2. Describe the U.S. policymaking process, understanding the conditions under which policy change occurs and why the status quo often prevails
  3. Identify the factors that influence decisions of key actors in the policy-making process
  4. Define and measure what we mean by “using” research in the policymaking process
  5. Discuss the role of researchers in the policymaking process
Methods of Assessment
This course is evaluated as follows:
  • 30% Participation
  • 30% Assignments
  • 40% Final Project
Enrollment Restriction
undergraduates are not permitted in this course
Instructor Consent
No consent required
Special Comments

The course will help students meet the following CEPH competencies:

--Explain the critical importance of evidence in advancing public health knowledge
--Discuss multiple dimensions of the policy-making process, including the roles of ethics and evidence
--Advocate for political, social or economic policies and programs that will improve health in diverse populations