You'll explore the intersection of tech and public policy, focusing on how laws and regulations shape technological development. Topics include data privacy, cybersecurity, AI ethics, digital rights, and tech's impact on society. You'll analyze case studies, debate current issues, and learn how policymakers and tech companies navigate the rapidly evolving digital landscape.

Is Technology and Policy hard?

It's not typically considered one of the toughest CS courses, but it can be challenging in its own way. The technical concepts aren't as complex as advanced programming classes, but you'll need to think critically and develop strong analytical skills. The hardest part for many students is shifting gears from pure coding to considering broader societal impacts and legal frameworks.

Tips for taking Technology and Policy in college

Use Fiveable Study Guides to help you cram 🌶️
Stay up-to-date with tech news and policy debates
Practice writing policy briefs and position papers
Engage in class discussions – they're crucial for understanding different perspectives
Learn to analyze case studies effectively (e.g., Facebook's data privacy issues)
Watch documentaries like "The Social Dilemma" or "The Great Hack" for real-world context
Read "The Code" by Margaret O'Mara for historical background on tech policy

Common pre-requisites for Technology and Policy

Introduction to Computer Science: This course covers fundamental programming concepts and basic algorithms. It's usually the first step in any CS curriculum.
Ethics in Computing: This class explores ethical issues in technology, including privacy, intellectual property, and social responsibility. It provides a foundation for understanding the ethical implications discussed in Technology and Policy.

Classes similar to Technology and Policy

Digital Ethics and Privacy: Focuses on ethical considerations in the digital age, covering topics like data protection, surveillance, and online privacy rights.
Cybersecurity Policy: Examines policies and strategies for protecting digital assets and infrastructure from cyber threats. It covers both technical and legal aspects of cybersecurity.
AI and Society: Explores the societal impacts of artificial intelligence, including issues of bias, automation, and the future of work.
Internet Law: Covers legal issues specific to the internet, such as intellectual property rights, e-commerce regulations, and online speech laws.

Computer Science: Focuses on the theory, design, and applications of computing and information processing. CS majors learn programming, algorithms, and software development while also exploring broader impacts of technology.
Public Policy: Examines how governments address social issues through laws, regulations, and programs. Students learn about policy analysis, implementation, and evaluation across various sectors.
Science, Technology, and Society (STS): Investigates the relationships between scientific and technological innovations and society. STS majors study how social, political, and cultural values affect scientific research and technological innovation.
Information Science: Combines aspects of computer science, sociology, and psychology to study how people interact with information and technology. It focuses on designing user-friendly systems and understanding information behavior.

What can you do with a degree in Technology and Policy?

Technology Policy Analyst: Works for government agencies, think tanks, or tech companies to analyze and develop policies related to technology. They research emerging tech trends and their potential impacts on society and regulations.
Privacy Officer: Ensures that organizations comply with data protection laws and regulations. They develop and implement privacy policies, conduct risk assessments, and manage data breaches.
AI Ethics Consultant: Advises companies on ethical considerations in AI development and deployment. They help identify potential biases, ensure transparency, and develop guidelines for responsible AI use.
Digital Rights Advocate: Works for non-profit organizations or advocacy groups to protect digital rights and freedoms. They campaign for issues like net neutrality, online privacy, and freedom of expression in the digital realm.