Social Impact & Public Policy

Learn how public policy, social work, community organizing, and sustainability leadership can support positive social change. This beginner-level Specialization helps you understand how change happens across communities, organizations, and public systems—and how you can contribute. Throughout the specialization, you’ll learn to: Explain how public policy is developed, implemented, and evaluated Analyze social issues through equity, social justice, and systems perspectives Understand how social work supports individuals, families, and communities Assess community needs, priorities, and strategies for collective action Develop advocacy, action, and communication approaches for social change Examine how leadership, values, power, and relationships shape sustainable change You’ll work through case studies, practical exercises, and real-world examples while building skills in critical thinking, communication, problem solving, and leadership. This Specialization is designed for beginners interested in public service, nonprofits, education, social services, community organizations, or sustainability. No prior experience is necessary.