Policy
AdvocacyCornell Certificate Program

In this course, you will acquire essential skills for effective advocacy and policy communication. You will start by analyzing stakeholders, assessing their needs, and tailoring your message to resonate with diverse audiences. You will then delve into the legislative process by drafting your own bill, examining the nuances of legal language, policy implications, and the art of crafting impactful legislation.

You will also practice the art of concise communication by creating fact sheets that distill complex policy issues into clear, accessible information. Finally, you will develop the skills to present compelling testimony before legislative bodies and effectively advocate for your proposed policy.

You are required to have completed the following course or have equivalent experience before taking this course:

• Community Organizing

In this course, you will delve into administrative advocacy and examine the pivotal role executive agencies play in driving significant change at the local, state, and federal levels. You will explore the rulemaking process, where agencies collaborate with the public to develop regulations, and discover how to effectively engage in this process to shape policy outcomes. You will also practice drafting Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) requests to access critical data that can be leveraged to influence policy decisions. Ultimately, this course equips you with the essential skills to advocate for policy changes and navigate the administrative landscape with confidence.

You are required to have completed the following courses or have equivalent experience before taking this course:

• Community Organizing
• Legislative Advocacy

This course will equip you with the skills to effectively communicate your political cause to the public. You will explore the power of narrative and storytelling, discovering how to craft compelling advocacy stories that resonate with diverse audiences. You will gain hands-on experience engaging with the media, including drafting and distributing press releases. You will also delve into creating and publishing letters to the editor and op-eds, providing you with a comprehensive toolkit for public advocacy.

You are required to have completed the following courses or have equivalent experience before taking this course:

• Community Organizing
• Legislative Advocacy
• Administrative Advocacy

This course provides a comprehensive guide to running a successful political campaign, delving into every key aspect from the decision to run for office to the final push on Election Day. You will explore the entire campaign journey, beginning with the initial steps of launching a campaign. You will gain an in-depth understanding of campaign structure, fundraising strategies, marketing and branding techniques, and the critical importance of networking and coalition building. By the end of the course, you will be equipped with the knowledge and skills to run an effective political campaign.

You are required to have completed the following courses or have equivalent experience before taking this course:

• Community Organizing
• Legislative Advocacy
• Administrative Advocacy
• Media Advocacy and Storytelling