Arizona Online and United Nations Launch Professional Certificate in Science Policy and Diplomacy

Wednesday
Science Diplomacy

The University of Arizona, through Arizona Online and its College of Engineering, has partnered with the United Nations Institute for Training and Research (UNITAR) to launch a new Professional Certificate in Science Policy and Diplomatic (SPD) Practice, beginning October 2025.

This 14-week online program equips participants with the skills to bridge science and diplomacy in addressing pressing global challenges such as public health, cybersecurity, and space exploration. Graduates will be prepared to assume leadership roles in major multilateral scientific organizations, including UNESCO, CERN, WHO, ITU, and IAEA.

“This certificate leverages Arizona’s strengths in engineering and UNITAR’s expertise in diplomacy to prepare the next generation of leaders who will shape global policy,” said Caleb Simmons, Vice Provost of Arizona Online.

The program combines the academic rigor of the University of Arizona, a top-tier Research 1 institution, with UNITAR’s long-standing role as the United Nations’ training arm. Learners will benefit from:

  • A wide exposure to the breadth of pressing science, health and engineering issues that must be addressed through policy making and diplomatic channels.
  • A unique consideration of the need and success of engineering in global diplomacy through case studies including the Montreal Protocol and CERN’s Large Hadron Collider.
  • Interactive global dialogues, featuring two live sessions with internationally recognized experts in science policy and diplomacy.
  • Joint certification, awarded by both the University of Arizona and UNITAR, offering graduates academic and international recognition.

“This program is an exceptional opportunity for scientists, engineers, and policymakers to work across disciplines and borders,” said Kevin Lansey, Professor of Civil and Architectural Engineering. “By combining technical expertise with diplomatic training, graduates will be positioned to make real impact at the intersection of science and policy.”

Applications are due October 6, 2025, and the program will run fully online with synchronous and asynchronous components.

More details are available at ce.arizona.edu.