Policy Analysis Learning Lab

A supportive learning initiative to equip every student with the confidence to use policy analysis for the public good.

Policy analysis is a tool everyone can use to create effective public policy. Ford School graduates rely on the rigorous policy analysis training they receive to create, implement, and evaluate policies to overcome challenges in social welfare, public health, the environment, education, criminal justice, international development, and more. Born from discussions with current students and alumni, the PAL expands on existing student support resources to ensure all have the opportunity to benefit from the Ford School's world-class analysis training. 

Services offered

Under the guidance of faculty director Alton Worthington, the PAL employs graduate student consultants to help with specific questions or as a general resource.

Services include:

• personalized assistance to help with questions about concepts, homework, and practice problems
• software support tailored to core quant courses (R, Excel, Stata, and Python)
• pop-up workshops featuring specialized methods, techniques, and practical applications.
• Springboard summer program for incoming graduate students

Currently, both undergraduate and graduate students enrolled in any core quantitative course at the Ford School can schedule an appointment with a PAL consultant for tailored support. Make an appointment here.

Looking ahead, the initiative will extend its support to qualitative research skills.

Based on discussions with current students and alumni about the support they wish they had, the Policy Analysis Learning Lab (PAL) expands on existing student support resources to ensure all have the opportunity to benefit from the Ford School's world-class analysis training.