Online Program Evaluation Graduate Certificate

The program evaluation certificate may benefit a range of professionals. You can develop professional expertise to assume evaluation responsibilities in your current role. Or you can build your evaluation toolkit for front-line program delivery. The program evaluation certificate also complements degrees in substantive fields. These fields include criminology, economic development, education, health care, social services and more.

This credential is ideal for students with backgrounds in management and social sciences. It offers rigorous training in applied statistics but doesn’t require knowledge of calculus or matrix algebra. Through certificate coursework, you'll build foundational knowledge in data programming. You’ll also gain expertise in quantitative analysis, research design and managerial experience. The program will introduce you to open-source software and open data ecosystems. You’ll learn to use R (a computer language) to create data dashboards, automate reports and more. These tools can be helpful for communicating results to clients.

What is program evaluation?

Program evaluation is the process of researching and gathering data to see if a project or program achieves its goals. Program evaluation has become a routine operation for a wide range of industries. Industries employing evaluators include educational institutions, governmental agencies, nonprofit organizations and private companies. These employees deploy data-driven techniques to assess program efficiency based on several factors.

Where can I use program evaluation?

With program evaluation skills, your options for employment are diverse. You could work for a university, nonprofit, health care facility or the government. Your daily tasks may include assessing programs, conducting cost analyses and reporting findings.