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Public Affairs

Professionals discussing ideas in an office, representing collaboration and leadership
Connecting policy, people, and purpose.

Shape the future of policy and governance with UCLA Extension’s Public Affairs programs. Our offerings equip professionals with the knowledge and skills to navigate complex public systems, analyze policy impacts, and lead change across sectors. From land use and climate legislation to education and healthcare reform, our courses are taught by experienced practitioners who bring real-world insights into the classroom.

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Driving change through policy, advocacy, and civic engagement

Through UCLA Extension, students gain the knowledge and skills to understand complex social systems, analyze public policy, and lead initiatives that create meaningful change. Public Affairs programs emphasize practical learning, civic engagement, and ethical leadership—preparing professionals to make an impact in government, nonprofits, and the broader community.
 

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An advisor speaking one-on-one with a prospective student.

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Public Affairs

Programs

A certificate offers an in-depth study of a professional field. A specialization is a short series of courses to quickly gain knowledge in a focused area of study.
certificate Learn how to analyze, visualize and communicate data insights to internal and external stakeholders to assist in public policy decision-making.

Learn how to analyze, visualize and communicate data insights to internal and external stakeholders to assist in public policy decision-making.

Public Affairs

Courses

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.
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.
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.