Data for Decision Makers: Data Concepts and Applications



Overview

Data is transforming how governments and public service organisations operate, but having data is not the same as using it well.

Data Concepts and Applications, the first course in the Data for Decision Makers series, is designed for public service professionals who need to turn complex data into clear, confident decisions. Whether you are shaping policy, managing programmes, allocating budgets or evaluating impact, this course will help you use data as a strategic asset.

Through real-world public sector case studies and hands-on practical exercises, participants learn how to interpret data, ask better questions and apply data insights to real policy and operational challenges. The course bridges the gap between technical data expertise and public leadership, empowering participants to design policies and programmes that are more effective, transparent and accountable.

Programme details

Course Dates, Location and Format

Dates: 21 September – 02 October 2026

  • Format: In-person
  • Location: Rewley House, Oxford
  • Duration: 10 days

 

This course is ideal for:

  • Government officials and public servants at local, regional or national level
  • NGO professionals working in public service delivery
  • Mid-level managers responsible for programmes, policy or strategy
  • Professionals in data, data-adjacent, or data-informed roles

It is particularly valuable for those with hands-on programme experience who work with large volumes of operational or programme data.

 

This course will help you:

  • Make better, faster and more confident decisions using data

  • Cut through complexity and focus on what the data really tells you
  • Strengthen transparency, accountability and public trust
  • Avoid common data pitfalls that lead to poor policy or programme outcomes
  • Build practical data skills you can apply immediately in your role

 

Learning Experience

Participants will benefit from a highly interactive learning experience that includes:

  • Expert-led sessions grounded in public sector realities
  • Global case studies from both high-income and low- and middle-income contexts
  • Group discussions and peer learning
  • Practical exercises using realistic data scenarios and tools

Daily schedule

Week 1: 21 – 25 September 2026

The first part of the course is dedicated to modern data concepts and data governance. 

Monday: Setting the landscape

Tuesday: Data-driven decision-making

Wednesday: Data governance

Thursday: Technological landscape for data

Friday: Human resource for data and data governance

Click here for the daily timetable.

Week 2: 28 September – 02 October 2026

The second part of the course is dedicated to capacity-building on data management.

Monday: Data privacy, security, and protection

Tuesday: FAIR principles of data management

Wednesday: All about spreadsheets

Thursday: Project-based workflows

Friday: Summing up

Click here for the daily timetable.

 

By the end of the course, you will be able to:

  • Use data confidently to support evidence-based decision-making
  • Understand modern data governance principles and why they matter
  • Choose appropriate data tools and technologies for your organisation
  • Apply FAIR data principles to improve data quality and reuse
  • Use spreadsheets effectively while understanding their limitations and risks
  • Reduce technical and technological debt through smarter data practices

Fees

Description Costs
Course fee: All tuition, weekday refreshments, lunches, dinners £2755.00

Payment

Course fee: £2,755

The fee covers all tuition and course materials and also includes:

  • 10 weekday lunches
  • Morning and afternoon refreshments
  • Welcome and closing drink receptions and dinners

Application

To apply, please submit the following via email to summercourses@conted.ox.ac.uk:

  • A completed application form
  • A CV demonstrating a role or position:
    • That is data specific, for example a data officer or data manager, or
    • Data-adjacent/data-oriented, for example a programme manager/officer of a unit or department that has to work or manage various sources of data
  • A half-page cover letter explaining how you would benefit from attending this course

If you would like to discuss your suitability for the course or have questions about the application process, click the ‘Ask a question’ button at the top of this page.

Alteration or cancellation of a course by the department

The department reserves the right to alter details of any course should illness or any other emergency prevent a tutor from teaching, and to cancel a course or seminar if exceptionally low enrolment would make it educationally unviable.

The status of the course will be reviewed on Monday 3 August 2026. If it is likely that the course may be cancelled, all participants enrolled on the course will be notified in writing within seven days, and possible options clearly explained.

If participants have not heard from the department by Friday 7 August 2026, they should assume that the course will be running; there is no need to contact us to confirm. Participants may wish to delay finalising their travel arrangements until after this date.

Selection criteria

Priority will be given to applicants with:

  • Practical programme implementation experience
  • Roles requiring regular engagement with programme or operational data

Applicants are encouraged to clearly describe their personal experience in their application.

Accommodation

If you wish to stay with us before and/or after the event, please contact our Residential Centre for availability and discounted rates.

Call +44 (0) 1865 270362 or email res-ctr@conted.ox.ac.uk

Our accommodation in Wellington Square has been rated as 4-Star Campus Accommodation under Visit England. All bedrooms are modern, comfortably furnished with tea/coffee making facilities, Freeview television, private bath/shower rooms and free WiFi. For more details see our accommodation information.

IT requirements

Participants must be comfortable using a computer for email and internet browsing and have regular access to a computer. Software will be provided for course participants.

Terms & conditions for applicants and students

Information on financial support