Data Analytics in Public Affairs Certificate Program | UCLA Extension
Archived: 2026-04-23 17:37
Data Analytics in Public Affairs Certificate Program | UCLA Extension
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Summer Enrollment Opens on April 27, 2026.
View Courses
or the
Academic Calendar
.
Data Analytics in Public Affairs
Data Analytics in Public Affairs
Learn how to analyze, visualize and communicate data insights to internal and external stakeholders to assist in public policy decision-making.
Courses
4 Required
Methods
Online
F-1 Visa Eligible
No
Get More Info
This program is perfect for...
Policy advisors and urban planners who need to leverage big data to drive governance and community development initiatives
Public affairs professionals looking to enhance their understanding of data and their ability to share it in meaningful ways
Public Administrators who want to better bridge the gap between data analytics teams and executive leadership
Data analysts and programmers seeking to transition into policy roles
What you can learn.
Gain an overview of advanced technologies and their relevance to 21st century governance and community development
Examine the ethical implications in using big data and data analytics for governance and community development projects
Craft persuasive narratives, develop compelling presentations, and leverage storytelling techniques to engage and inspire audiences
Learn how to load, clean, analyze and visualize policy relevant datasets using Python, the world’s most popular programming language
Use spatial data analysis—examining locations, attributes, and relationships—to address a question or gain knowledge
Data-Driven Decision Making
The Data Analytics in Public Affairs Certificate program, created in partnership with
UCLA's Luskin School of Public Affairs
, is designed for professionals working in public policy, planning, and social services arenas who want to gain a deeper understanding of how big data and digital technologies can be used to offer public services in more just and efficient ways. As companies around the world collect more and more data, they in turn expect their staff to understand, analyze and visually present these figures in meaningful contexts. Students who complete the program will possess the knowledge and skills needed to meet industry needs. No data analytics experience is necessary to start this program.
Courses are taught by instructors with extensive teaching and research backgrounds and direct data policy experience.
Format:
Online
Duration:
6 months (full-time), 1 year (part-time)
Upcoming Information Session
Join us for an upcoming information session where you can learn more about the program!
Learn More
Cost and Fees
All courses in this program are paid for individually, unless otherwise noted. An application form is required to establish candidacy in this program. From the 'Apply Now' button, complete the online application and pay the application fee if applicable.
Application and Candidacy Fee
$200
Estimated Textbooks and Materials
N/A
Estimated Program Tuition
$12000
Apply Now
Payment Options
Not eligible for VA Benefit
Federal Financial Aid is not available
Required Courses
Customize your experience
PUB AFF X 401
Artificial Intelligence and Advanced Technologies in Public Affairs
Learn advanced technologies important to governance and community development. Gain an understanding of AI, blockchain, autonomous vehicles, drones, VR/AR, 5G technology, and cybersecurity technologies necessary to protect against hacking.
View Course
PUB AFF X 402
Ethics, AI, and the Data Society
Examine ethical issues related to big data/analytics in governance and community development. Topics include balancing public good/privacy, preventing misuse, predictive policing, addressing AI’s role in systemic bias & ensuring equitable outcomes.
View Course
PUB AFF X 403
Data Visualization
Explore the strategies and techniques for driving the adoption and utilization of data visualizations. Learn how to craft persuasive narratives, engage stakeholders, and build trust with tailored visualizations.
View Course
Data Science Requirement
Students must take one of the following courses.
PUB AFF X 404
Introduction to Programming and Data Science
An introduction to data analysis and programming using Python, students will learn how to load, clean, and manipulate spreadsheets along with foundational Python programming concepts.
View Course
PUB AFF X 405
GIS and Spatial Data Science
Understand the foundations of spatial data science using Python. Examine the components of data’s journey—acquisition, exploration, modeling, and communication through visualization—to advance policy analysis.
View Course
Invested In Your Success
Have questions or need guidance?
Visit the Help Center
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Skip to main content
Summer Enrollment Opens on April 27, 2026.
View Courses
or the
Academic Calendar
.
Data Analytics in Public Affairs
Data Analytics in Public Affairs
Learn how to analyze, visualize and communicate data insights to internal and external stakeholders to assist in public policy decision-making.
Courses
4 Required
Methods
Online
F-1 Visa Eligible
No
Get More Info
This program is perfect for...
Policy advisors and urban planners who need to leverage big data to drive governance and community development initiatives
Public affairs professionals looking to enhance their understanding of data and their ability to share it in meaningful ways
Public Administrators who want to better bridge the gap between data analytics teams and executive leadership
Data analysts and programmers seeking to transition into policy roles
What you can learn.
Gain an overview of advanced technologies and their relevance to 21st century governance and community development
Examine the ethical implications in using big data and data analytics for governance and community development projects
Craft persuasive narratives, develop compelling presentations, and leverage storytelling techniques to engage and inspire audiences
Learn how to load, clean, analyze and visualize policy relevant datasets using Python, the world’s most popular programming language
Use spatial data analysis—examining locations, attributes, and relationships—to address a question or gain knowledge
Data-Driven Decision Making
The Data Analytics in Public Affairs Certificate program, created in partnership with
UCLA's Luskin School of Public Affairs
, is designed for professionals working in public policy, planning, and social services arenas who want to gain a deeper understanding of how big data and digital technologies can be used to offer public services in more just and efficient ways. As companies around the world collect more and more data, they in turn expect their staff to understand, analyze and visually present these figures in meaningful contexts. Students who complete the program will possess the knowledge and skills needed to meet industry needs. No data analytics experience is necessary to start this program.
Courses are taught by instructors with extensive teaching and research backgrounds and direct data policy experience.
Format:
Online
Duration:
6 months (full-time), 1 year (part-time)
Upcoming Information Session
Join us for an upcoming information session where you can learn more about the program!
Learn More
Cost and Fees
All courses in this program are paid for individually, unless otherwise noted. An application form is required to establish candidacy in this program. From the 'Apply Now' button, complete the online application and pay the application fee if applicable.
Application and Candidacy Fee
$200
Estimated Textbooks and Materials
N/A
Estimated Program Tuition
$12000
Apply Now
Payment Options
Not eligible for VA Benefit
Federal Financial Aid is not available
Required Courses
Customize your experience
PUB AFF X 401
Artificial Intelligence and Advanced Technologies in Public Affairs
Learn advanced technologies important to governance and community development. Gain an understanding of AI, blockchain, autonomous vehicles, drones, VR/AR, 5G technology, and cybersecurity technologies necessary to protect against hacking.
View Course
PUB AFF X 402
Ethics, AI, and the Data Society
Examine ethical issues related to big data/analytics in governance and community development. Topics include balancing public good/privacy, preventing misuse, predictive policing, addressing AI’s role in systemic bias & ensuring equitable outcomes.
View Course
PUB AFF X 403
Data Visualization
Explore the strategies and techniques for driving the adoption and utilization of data visualizations. Learn how to craft persuasive narratives, engage stakeholders, and build trust with tailored visualizations.
View Course
Data Science Requirement
Students must take one of the following courses.
PUB AFF X 404
Introduction to Programming and Data Science
An introduction to data analysis and programming using Python, students will learn how to load, clean, and manipulate spreadsheets along with foundational Python programming concepts.
View Course
PUB AFF X 405
GIS and Spatial Data Science
Understand the foundations of spatial data science using Python. Examine the components of data’s journey—acquisition, exploration, modeling, and communication through visualization—to advance policy analysis.
View Course
Invested In Your Success
Have questions or need guidance?
Visit the Help Center
Courses
Courses
Search All Courses
Online Courses
Instruction Methods
Transfer Credit Courses
Complimentary Courses (UCLAxOpen)
Help Center
Certificates & Programs
Certificates & Programs
Search All Certificates and Specializations
Custom and Corporate Training
Technical Management Program (TMP)
OLLI (Osher Lifelong Learning Institute)
Pathway Program
UC Excelerator
Help Center
How to Enroll
How to Enroll
How to Enroll
Academic Term Calendar
How to Drop/Transfer/Withdraw
Financial Aid, Scholarships & Discounts
International Students
Concurrent and Cross Enrollment
Course Numbers and Transferability
Help Center
Browse by Topic
Browse by Topic
Accounting & Finance
Architecture & Interior Design
Business & Management
Communications
Computer Science
Design & Arts
Education
Engineering
Entertainment
Environmental Studies
Health Care & Counseling
Humanities & Social Sciences
Landscape Architecture & Horticulture
Legal Programs
Osher (OLLI)
Pathway
Public Affairs
Real Estate
Sciences & Math
Writing
Student Resources
Student Resources
Enrollment and Support
Academic Term Calendar
Transcripts, Credits & Grades
Graduation & Alumni
Career Services
Rights and Responsibilities
International Student Support
Bruin REACH
Help Center
News & Events
News & Events
Bruin Collaborative at UCLA Downtown
Newsroom
Events Calendar
Conferences & Events
Graduation Ceremony
Information Sessions
UCLAxOpen Workshops
Welcome
Student Home
Log Out
Canvas Log In
Log In
Student Log In
Instructor Log In
Canvas Log In