PUBPOL 5780

Artificial Intelligence and Public Sector Decision Making

Course Description

Course information provided by the 2025-2026 Catalog.

Artificial intelligence (AI) has been playing increasingly prominent roles in today’s public and private sectors. The recent rise of ChatGPT and other generative AI applications, in particular, has accelerated the adoption of AI among individuals, institutions, industries, communities, and societies. As a technology dating back decades, AI is complex, multifaceted, and dynamic, involving different techniques, categories, philosophies, use cases, and varied value and risks. Developing and maintaining an in-depth, nuanced, and up-to-date understanding of AI, AI-related technologies including big data and digital platforms, and the best practices and lessons learned during the design, implementation, and use of these technologies in diverse regions and sectors is critical to public policy. Such knowledge enables today’s and tomorrow’s practitioners and policymakers to design roadmaps, frameworks, strategies, artifacts, services, and policies to make a positive impact on our society. The course is designed for students both with and without a technical background.

Last 4 Terms Offered 2025SP

Learning Outcomes

• Articulate AI’s definition, evolution, categories, use cases, and policy implications.
• Analyze and manage the value and risks of AI-related initiatives in diverse regions and sectors.
• Address global challenges by designing and leveraging AI-related technologies, strategies, solutions, and policies.

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