Policy Capstone Project
During the second year in the program, HPAP students expand and apply their analytical and policy skills by exploring a question of policy importance. The Policy Capstone might take the form of an evaluation of the implementation of a piece of legislation or public program, the synthesis of existing data to inform the development of a policy, the collection of new information relevant to a policy problem, or an analysis of the options available to address a specific policy question.
The project's broad goals are to contribute to solving a policy problem, to develop advanced analytical and problem-solving skills, to gain experience with the policy process and the role of various stakeholders in that process, and to develop comprehensive knowledge in an area or areas of special interest. Planning for the Capstone Project may begin in the first year of the program, with the work beginning no later than autumn quarter of the second year. Over the course of the 9 credits of the Capstone, students should expect to invest about 180-240 hours in the project. Guidance will be provided by both faculty and community partners.
