Science Policy Skills Training Course

Enrollment is open for the 2025 Science Policy Skills Training Course!

NSPN’s Science Policy Training Program is an 8-week immersive course designed to build critical skills in science policy analysis, stakeholder engagement, policy position development, and professional growth through hands-on learning and mentorship from experts in the field.

Participants will deepen their understanding of state and local policy processes, gaining practical tools to engage stakeholders and navigate the policy landscape effectively. The course equips participants with the knowledge and skills to contribute meaningfully to policy development and advocacy at the state and local levels.

The program also focuses on professional development, assisting participants in crafting resumes, delivering elevator pitches, and preparing for impactful policy careers. The program culminates in a group policy presentation, open to the public, allowing participants to showcase their learning.

DURATION
8 classes, online
4-5 hours per weeK

PROGRAM FEE
US $400

WHO SHOULD PARTICIPATE?

This program is ideal for STEM students and professionals seeking to transition into science policy careers. Examples of potential roles to apply for after completition of the course include state and local commissions and/or boards, state policy fellowships, and internships with a variety of science policy organizations including think tanks, nonprofits and state government agencies.

Course Structure

NSPN’s Science Policy Skills Training Course is virtual and uses a flipped classroom model to enhance interactive learning. Participants complete readings and watch pre-recorded lectures before each session, ensuring that live classes focus on discussion and collaboration.

  • Weekly sessions on Wednesdays from 7:00 to 9:00 p.m. ET feature guest speakers, peer discussions, and hands-on exercises. Attendance at all sessions is required to earn a certificate.

  • Weekly office hours provide personalized feedback and guidance on assignments and career goals.

  • Participants build their science policy skills through individual and group assignments including policy briefs, resumes, elevator pitches, and a final policy presentation.

COURSE DETAILS

Benefits

Beyond the skills and knowledge gained in this course participants will gain access to the following benefits:

  • Increased Capacity for State and Local Policy Involvement: Gain practical skills and a deeper understanding of how to influence state and local policy, empowering you to drive change in your community.

  • Networking Opportunities: Connect with experienced policy professionals and peers to build a robust science policy network.

  • Certification of Completion: Earn recognition for your achievement and dedication to advancing science policy.

  • Eligibility for Symposium Travel Awards: Course participants may qualify for full travel awards and speaking opportunities at the National Science Policy Symposium.

Course Dates & Expectations

Participants are expected to attend all virtual sessions and complete all assignments to a satisfactory level to receive a certificate of completion for the course. The dates and times for course sessions are listed below:

  • March 5, 2025 - 7:00 - 9:00 pm ET | Networking, Cohort Introduction, and Onboarding

  • March 12, 2025 - 7:00 - 9:00 pm ET | Building Your Personal Elevator Pitch

  • March 19, 2025 - 7:00 - 9:00 pm ET | Developing a Policy-Relevant Resume

  • March 26, 2025 - 7:00 - 9:00 pm ET | Crafting a Policy Position: Defining the Problem 

  • April 2, 2025 - 7:00 - 9:00 pm ET | Analyzing Solutions and Alternatives

  • April 9, 2025 - 7:00 - 9:00 pm ET | Mapping and Analyzing Stakeholders

  • April 16, 2025 - 7:00 - 9:00 pm ET | Refining Your Policy Pitch

  • April 23, 2025 | NO CLASS

  • April 30, 2025 - 7:00 - 9:00 pm ET | Final Policy Pitch Presentations

COURSE FEES

Enrollment Cost $400

Enrollment is open until the course is full or Sunday, March 2nd at 11:59 pm ET.

Course fees are refundable by request until Sunday, March 2nd, 2025 at 11:59 pm ET.

Questions? Please email info@scipolnetwork.org.

Financial Assistance

Financial assistance may be available for NSPN Chapters.

Please contact info@scipolnetwork.org for more information.

We also encourage participants to seek scholarship from their academic institutions or employers.

SCIENCE POLICY COURSE MENTOR

Are you a mid-late career science policy professional interested in supporting the next generation of science policy leaders through mentorship and editorial support? We’re looking for people to work with our course participants to provide them 1:1 feedback needed to advance in their career.

Please reach out to info@scipolnetwork.org for more details.