Program Evaluator

A Program Evaluator is a professional who assesses the effectiveness and impact of programs, policies, and interventions. They use various methods to collect and analyze data, and then provide recommendations for improvement. Program Evaluators work in a variety of settings, including government, non-profit organizations, and businesses.

Responsibilities

The responsibilities of a Program Evaluator include:

• Designing and conducting evaluations
• Collecting and analyzing data
• Writing reports and presenting findings
• Making recommendations for improvement
• Working with stakeholders to implement recommendations

Education and Training

Program Evaluators typically have a master's degree in program evaluation, public health, or a related field. They may also have experience in research, data analysis, or project management.

Many Program Evaluators also hold professional certifications, such as the Certified Program Evaluator (CPE) credential from the American Evaluation Association.

Skills and Abilities

Program Evaluators need strong analytical, research, and communication skills. They should also be able to work independently and as part of a team.

Other important skills for Program Evaluators include:

• Data collection and analysis
• Report writing
• Project management
• Stakeholder engagement
• Knowledge of evaluation methods

Career Prospects

The job outlook for Program Evaluators is expected to grow faster than average in the coming years. This is due to the increasing demand for evidence-based decision-making in government, non-profit organizations, and businesses.

Transferable Skills

The skills that Program Evaluators develop can be transferred to a variety of other careers, including:

• Research Analyst
• Data Analyst
• Project Manager
• Policy Analyst
• Consultant

Day-to-Day

The day-to-day work of a Program Evaluator can vary depending on the specific project they are working on. However, some common tasks include:

• Meeting with stakeholders to discuss evaluation needs
• Developing an evaluation plan
• Collecting and analyzing data
• Writing reports and presenting findings
• Making recommendations for improvement

Challenges

Some of the challenges that Program Evaluators face include:

• Working with limited resources
• Dealing with resistance from stakeholders
• Evaluating complex programs

Projects

Some of the projects that Program Evaluators may work on include:

• Evaluating the effectiveness of a new educational program
• Assessing the impact of a social service program
• Measuring the return on investment of a marketing campaign

Personal Growth

Program Evaluators have the opportunity to make a real difference in the world by helping to improve programs and policies. They can also develop valuable skills that can be used in a variety of other careers.

Personality and Interests

Program Evaluators are typically analytical, detail-oriented, and have a strong interest in research and data analysis. They are also able to work independently and as part of a team.

Self-Guided Projects

There are a number of self-guided projects that students can complete to better prepare themselves for a career as a Program Evaluator. These projects can include:

• Conducting a small-scale evaluation of a program or policy
• Developing an evaluation plan
• Writing a report on the findings of an evaluation

Online Courses

Online courses can be a great way to learn about program evaluation and develop the skills needed for this career. Many online courses cover topics such as:

• Evaluation methods
• Data collection and analysis
• Report writing
• Stakeholder engagement

Online courses can be taken at your own pace and can be a great way to supplement your formal education or gain new skills.

Conclusion

Program Evaluation is a rewarding career that can make a real difference in the world. If you are interested in a career that combines research, data analysis, and a desire to improve the world, then program evaluation may be the right fit for you.