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Graduate Certificate in Governance and Policy for AI and Data Technology
Purdue’s Graduate Certificate in Governance and Policy for AI and Data Technology builds in-demand expertise in AI governance, ethics, and regulation in less time than a traditional master’s degree – supporting faster, more accessible career advancement in emerging technology fields.
Build in-demand AI governance and policy expertise to advance your career with Purdue’s graduate certificate.
Graduate Certificate in Governance and Policy for AI and Data Technology Overview
Purdue’s Graduate Certificate in Governance and Policy for Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Data Technology provides applied training in the policies, institutions and regulatory processes that govern AI, data and emerging technologies. Students learn how policies are developed, implemented and evaluated in the U.S. and globally, with an emphasis on compliance, ethics, impact assessment and audit planning for data-driven systems.
Designed to address a growing workforce gap, the program prepares professionals and graduate students for careers in AI governance and regulatory compliance. It aligns with Purdue’s strategic focus on AI and data science, leverages faculty expertise in governance and ethics through labs such as Governance and Responsible AI Lab (GRAIL) and the International Politics and Responsible Tech Lab and complements existing programs like the Master of Science in Artificial Intelligence and Master of Science in Data Science by adding a critical policy dimension to technical training.
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Governance and Policy for AI and Data Technology Quick Program Facts
*The cost of attending Purdue varies depending on where you choose to live, enrollment in a specific program or college, food and travel expenses, and other variables. The Office of the Bursar website shows estimated costs for the current aid year for students by semester and academic year. These amounts are used in determining a student’s estimated eligibility for financial aid. You can also use our tuition calculator to estimate tuition costs.
Fast Track Your Expertise in Governance and Policy for AI and Data Technology
- Students will develop strategies to support the thoughtful, ethical and responsible use of AI and data technology.
- Students will examine the evolving policy and regulatory landscape surrounding AI, data and emerging technologies.
- Students will develop practical skills in policy development, impact assessments, compliance and governance.
- Students will evaluate the ethical, societal and organizational implications of AI and data technology.
Note: Curriculum, course titles, and numbers are subject to change at the discretion of the program faculty and administration. Not all program courses will be available during every session.
Total Credit Hours Required: 12
Required Courses (9 credit hours):
- POL 52101-Applied Public Policy: Institutions, Processes, Practices (3 credit)
- POL 52601-Technology, AI, and Ethics in Public Policy and Public Administration (3 credits)
- POL 52701-Local to Global Governance of Data, AI, and Emerging Technology (3 credits)
Selective Courses (3 credit hours, choose one):
- GRAD 50600-Big Data Tools and Technologies (3 credits)
- GRAD 50700-Cross Domain Data Communication and Visualization (3 credits)
- POL 50100-Political Science: Methodology (3 credits)
- POL 50601-Data, Machine Learning, and Artificial Intelligence for the Public Sector (3 credits)
- POL 52000-Special Topics in Public Policy (3 credits)
- POL 52901-Applied Policy and Program Evaluation (3 credits)
- SCLA 51000-Data and Science Storytelling (3 credits)
- SCLA 52100-Societal Impacts of Artificial Intelligence (3 credits)
- SCLA 52200-Artificial Intelligence Policy, Governance, and Ethics (3 credits)
The Governance and Policy for AI and Data Technology Graduate Certificate has the following admission requirements:
- 3.0 cumulative GPA (or equivalent)
- A bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution
- Official transcripts from all universities attended, including transfer credits
- The GRE or GMAT exam is not required for admission
Please follow these steps as you prepare your application for the online graduate certificate. You may apply for up to two programs on one application.
- Create an application account and log in to start your graduate application.
- Select the following options:
- Campus and Program Tab:
- Campus: Purdue West Lafayette (PWL)
- Proposed graduate major: Political Science
- Program Details Tab:
- Area of Interest: Leave blank
- Degree Objective: Governance and Policy for AI and Data Technology Graduate Certificate
- Primary Course Delivery: Distance (Online)
- Campus and Program Tab:
- Test Scores are optional.
- Upload required materials.
- Once you are ready to submit your graduate application, please complete all sections and submit the application. The application must be fully submitted and the application fee paid in order for your application to be reviewed and considered for admission.
- Check the status of your submitted application by logging into the application portal.
Source: LightcastTM (2025). Unique job postings for July 2024-25. Projected growth for years 2019-2029.
Top Job Titles
The Governance and Policy for AI and Data Technology graduate certificate gives professionals a strong foundation in AI. When combined with technical courses in engineering, mathematics and coding, the skills this degree teaches can prepare professionals for careers like software engineer, data scientist and machine learning engineer. Additionally, product managers and business analysts play important roles in guiding AI-driven initiatives and translating data insights into effective business solutions.
Top Industries
Several major industries offer strong career opportunities for professionals with a foundation in AI. These include technology, government and finance, each leveraging AI to enhance decision-making, improve efficiency and drive innovation. The automotive and retail industries also rely on AI expertise to support automation, optimize operations and deliver more personalized customer experiences.