Civic Analytics

(3 Credits)

Cities are increasingly data-rich environments, and data-driven approaches to operations, policy, and planning are emerging as powerful tools to address localized global challenges that shape residents’ daily lives. This course introduces the key actors, actions, impacts, and challenges of policy-based innovations. Students explore core urban systems—such as housing, mobility, open space, water, and sanitation—through both qualitative and quantitative policy analytics. Through lectures, discussions, applied exercises, and assessments (e.g., policy memos, business case analyses), students develop critical skills to evaluate urban policies, programs, and projects. The course prepares students for work in Policy Analytics, CUSP, and the broader application of urban data science to complex policy challenges.