Gender, Leadership, and Public Policy
The 18-credit, two semester graduate certificate program in Gender, Leadership and Public Policy equips women with the skills and knowledge required to launch meaningful careers as leaders at all levels of government, including elective and appointive office, or in nonprofit organizations. Some are inspired by the program to do further graduate studies in public affairs, public policy, or law. Graduates find that their careers are enhanced, their employment opportunities expanded, and their impact on the world deepened. The program is academically rigorous and combines five complementary components:
Two core seminars offer a comprehensive theoretical analysis of American politics and the process of policy making viewed through a gender lens. One seminar focuses on the substance of current public policy issues and debates, while the other focuses on how government works at the federal and state levels and the challenges women face as voters, candidates, and elected officials. Both courses analyze the intersection of gender, race, and class, and include a comparative dimension that is important for leadership in an increasingly globalized economy and society.to be a strong and effective leader, make a
A research methods course prepares students to be critical readers of research used in policy development and analysis and trains them in writing policy briefs using multiple data sources.
A management course explores organizations from both a feminist and a psychodynamic perspective, allowing students to become effective leaders in organizations responding to constant external changes.
An internship placement in government (often at the Massachusetts State House) or public sector agency, a nonprofit organization, or a research institute provides experience that will be useful in pursing meaningful employment after the program.
Professional development training sharpens skills in areas such as presentation, conflict resolution, issue advocacy, writing for diverse audiences, and career planning.
Vibrant discussions are an integral part of the GLPP experience, allowing students to hone their abilities in the art of civil discourse, and to make persuasive, evidence-based arguments on policy topics.
