PUBPOL 757 - National Science Policy

Over the course of the last century, an overwhelming number of societal advances have been driven by progress in science and technology. Medical treatments and cures have been developed, new economic frontiers have been opened, and the overall quality of life has been enhanced. Yet, the public has generally treated these advances as things that just ?ghappen?h, without there being any recognition that many are, in fact, the result of sustained commitment by the nation to support science through a deliberate set of science policies.

The aim of this course is to highlight the important role of national science policy in achieving societal goals. Science policy is sometimes a result of a larger public policy, and as society becomes more complex, so too, do those policies governing science.

The course is intended to provide a survey of topics in US science policy. A tentative list of broad topics to be covered includes:
- Organization of Governmental Entities supporting S&T
- How National Science Policy is Made
- Funding Trends
- The Role of Universities, Industry, the National Labs, States, and the Public in Science Policy
- Civilian and Military R&D
- Big Science vs. Little Science
- The Science and Engineering Workforce and Science Education in the US
- Ethics and Integrity in Science
- The Globalization of Science
- Homeland Security

The course is aimed at providing all students with an overview of issues that are relevant to national science policy. It is targeted to a broad audience and no prior science background is necessary. It is expected that the course would be of particular interest to students in public policy, engineering, any of the science disciplines, higher education, and other similar areas of study. Assignments will include readings, papers, and two exams.