Tech Diplomacy online course

This course explores the emergence of tech diplomacy as a diplomatic practice, and aims to prepare practitioners for effective engagement in tech diplomacy. In particular, the course focuses on interactions between diplomats and the tech sector, and highlights the practices of various countries. 

In 2017, Denmark appointed the first-ever tech ambassador. Tech diplomacy has since become a prominent term describing new diplomatic practices and the rising power of tech companies. On a practical level, it takes the form of tech ambassadors and other envoys, dedicated foreign policy strategies, and specialised units within ministries of foreign affairs. On a more philosophical level, it raises questions about shifts in sovereignty, the future of diplomatic practice, and how to negotiate humanistic values vis-à-vis tech companies. 

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What will you learn?

This course will enable you to:

• Explain the main ideas and concepts of tech diplomacy
• Gain a broad overview of the various actors and their approaches
• Develop a deeper understanding of countries’ representation in Silicon Valley and the various related practices
• Understand and apply various tech diplomacy practices
• Critically think about some of the broader shifts, for example in state sovereignty, related to tech diplomacy
• Apply the knowledge and skills gained in this course in your field of work

How will you learn?

In this course, you will:

• Interact intensively in discussions with classmates and lecturers from around the world
• Receive guidance and personalised feedback on your classwork from the course team. 
• Meet a team of guest lecturers who will ensure that you understand the various perspectives and practices being applied in this field. 

How long will you learn?

The course lasts for 6 weeks:

• 1 week of course orientation, with an introduction to online learning
• 4 weeks of addressing course topics one by one (see below for more details)
• 1 week for the final assignment and the completion of pending tasks

Who should apply

Diplo is seeking applications from the following applicants, from both developed and developing countries:

• Diplomats, civil servants, staff of international organisations, and others working in international relations who want to explore an emerging diplomatic practice
• Tech-sector employees who are seeking to better understand diplomatic practices related to tech diplomacy

The following applicants are also welcome:

• Journalists, staff of non-governmental organisations, translators, business people, and others who interact with diplomats and wish to improve their understanding of diplomacy-related topics
• Postgraduate students of diplomacy or international relations wishing to study topics not offered through their university programmes or diplomatic academies, and want to gain deeper insight through interactions with practising diplomats

Also of interest

Methodology

This online course is based on a collaborative learning approach, involving a high level of interaction over a period of 6 weeks. Reading materials and the necessary tools for online interaction are provided in a virtual classroom.

Each week, participants study and discuss course materials and complete additional online activities. At the end of the week, participants and lecturers meet to discuss the topic of the week. For successful completion, this course requires a minimum of 3 to 5 hours of study time per week.

Participants who successfully complete the course receive a certificate issued by Diplo, which can be printed or shared electronically.

Prerequisites

Applicants for the certificate course should have:

• An interest in exploring tech diplomacy through collaborative learning approach with a diverse set of participants
• Sufficient English reading, writing, and speaking skills to undertake postgraduate-level studies (including reading texts and discussing complex concepts with other course participants)
• Regular internet access (broadband is preferable)
• A minimum of 3–5 hours commitment per week, and the readiness to participate in hour-long online class  sessions (once a week at specified times)

Fees and scholarships

The course fee is €500 per participant, due upon acceptance into the course.

Note: Diplo alumni can benefit from a 15% discount on the fee for this course.

A limited number of partial scholarships, offered by Diplo, are available for applicants from developing countries. 

Discounts are available for more than one participant from the same institution.

How to apply

Fill out the short form to start your application process for this course. You will receive an instruction email on how to continue.

If you are applying for financial assistance, please upload your CV and a motivation letter that should include:

• Details of your relevant professional and educational background
• Reasons for your interest in the course
• Why you feel you should have the opportunity to participate in this course: How will your participation benefit you, your institution, and/or your country?
• What particular tech diplomacy challenges would you like to overcome by completing this course?

Cancellation Policy

Diplo reserves the right to cancel this course if enrolment is insufficient. In case of cancellation, Diplo will notify applicants shortly after the application deadline.