About the Course The United Nations University – Maastricht Economic and Social Research Institute on Innovation and Technology (UNU-MERIT) offers an online capacity-building course titled How to Communicate Research through Policy Briefs. This programme is designed to help participants convert existing academic research into concise, practical, and accessible policy briefs. Many research outputs—papers, theses, and articles—often remain undisseminated due to academic publishing constraints, specialised language, or document length. This course addresses these challenges by equipping learners with the tools to present research in formats suitable for policymakers, employers, and public audiences. Purpose and Approach The course provides hands-on training in writing policy briefs that adhere to real-world professional standards. Participants learn how to condense complex findings, identify key messages, and prepare materials that can be shared widely, including through professional networks and social platforms. The programme also emphasises the broader value of research dissemination and supports learners in recognising how academic work can influence policy debates and organisational decision-making. Learning Goals By the end of the programme, participants are expected to: Develop an understanding of various modes and purposes of research dissemination. Translate academic findings into a structured, accessible policy brief using outputs from a thesis or research paper. Apply criteria that define an effective policy brief. Strengthen practical writing skills tailored to policy audiences. Improve peer-review skills by assessing and providing feedback on other participants’ briefs. Understand dissemination pathways following the completion of a brief. Cost and Workload The course fee is 50 EUR. The total estimated workload is 25 hours, comprising: 7 contact hours, including synchronous interactive sessions. 18 hours dedicated to assignments and the final deliverable. Duration and Structure The course runs over 10 weeks, structured as follows: 1 week for platform access and familiarisation with course materials. 3 weeks of instruction and coursework, including three live sessions and one take-home assignment. 1 week reserved for potential resits or revisions. The remaining period accounts for administrative processes and the participant’s own pacing. Prerequisites Applicants should hold at least a bachelor’s degree. They must also have a complete or near-final research paper or thesis, as this will form the basis of their policy brief. Certification Participants who meet the course requirements will receive an online educational certificate, which reflects a workload equivalent to 2 ECTS credits. Application Process Applications are submitted through an online form. During the process, candidates must upload: A curriculum vitae (PDF) A copy of a valid passport (PDF or JPEG) Upon submitting the application, candidates receive a confirmation email and payment instructions. Registration is finalised once payment has been received, after which the Online Courses Administration Team will contact the participant. The processing time is typically 5–10 working days. Questions regarding application documents or procedural clarifications may be directed to the Capacity Development Office at vis@merit.unu.edu. Payment Information Payment can be made via credit card through the designated link. Applicants unable to complete an online transaction may contact onlinecourses@merit.unu.edu with their name, selected course, and preferred start date. In such cases, bank transfer information will be provided, and registration will be completed upon receipt of payment. Bank transfers require additional processing time. UNU-MERIT does not offer scholarships or tuition waivers for online courses. Instructor The course is led by Dr. Mindel van de Laar, Head of the Capacity Development Office at UNU-MERIT. Her extensive experience in policy engagement, research communication, and capacity development underpins the academic and practical foundation of the programme. About UNU-MERIT UNU-MERIT is part of the United Nations University system and operates as a research and training institute based in Maastricht, the Netherlands. The institute conducts research and offers education programmes focused on innovation, governance, and development. Through its Graduate School, training programmes, and capacity-building activities, UNU-MERIT supports learners and professionals worldwide in applying research to real-world challenges. The institute also contributes to the wider UNU mission, which includes global research collaboration, policy engagement, and the dissemination of knowledge. Its activities are supported by expert scholars, diverse publications, and a commitment to societal impact. Stay Connected Individuals interested in ongoing research, events, and learning opportunities from UNU can subscribe to the UNU INSIGHTS newsletter, delivered monthly. The university also maintains active communication channels for updates on publications, opportunities, and institutional news. VISIT OFFICIAL WEBSITE TO APPLY For more opportunities such as these please follow us on Facebook, Instagram , WhatsApp, Twitter, LinkedIn and Telegram Disclaimer: Global South Opportunities (GSO) is not the awarding organization. For any inquiries, please contact the official organization directly. Please do not send your applications to GSO, as we are unable to process them. Due to the high volume of emails, we receive daily, we may not be able to respond to all inquiries. Thank you for your understanding.