PUBPOL 5840
Data Visualization for Public Policy
This graduate-level course is designed for students interested in learning how to better communicate using data. Students will learn the foundations of data use and visualization tools and gain experience using these tools for the purpose of creating a shared understanding with an audience. Students will learn to organize data and create clear, creative graphs, charts, and dashboards for the purposes of story-telling and effectively conveying information. (MPA-DA, MPA-DATSCI)
Topics
- Distinguish between the strengths and weaknesses of various software programs, modelling methods, chart types, and graph types for specific visualization applications.
- Create effective visual reports using real world data.
- Synthesize data for a variety of audiences, including creating code and supporting materials that are reproducible and sharable.
- Write supporting materials that clearly describe data visualizations, highlighting key takeaways for the target audience.
Official roster learning outcomes
Sources
- Course catalogue ↗2026-2027