21 February 2025, Geneva, Switzerland – The United Nations Institute for Training and Research (UNITAR), in partnership with the University of Arizona, is pleased to announce the launch of the Professional Certificate in Science Policy and Diplomatic Practice.

In the twenty-first century, diplomacy is no longer confined to career diplomats and government officials. Increasingly, non-governmental organizations, private sector companies, academia, and civil society movements are engaged in international policymaking, contributing specialized knowledge and fostering partnerships to advance the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). This highlights the critical role of science in addressing global challenges, from eradicating poverty (SDG 1) to combating climate change (SDG 13), while reinforcing collaborative efforts (SDG 17) to promote sustainable and equitable development worldwide. As scientific advancements and global challenges are reshaping international relations, the capacity to bridge science and diplomacy has become paramount. Recognizing this need and demonstrating their commitment to accelerating progress on the SDGs through the Pact for the Future, UNITAR and the University of Arizona have partnered to design the Professional Certificate in Science Policy and Diplomatic Practice. This 14-week online programme equips professionals with skills in negotiation, strategic communication, critical thinking, and policy analysis. These competencies empower professionals to build partnerships, influence decision-making processes, and drive impactful solutions in diverse global contexts. 

The programme combines UNITAR’s six decades of expertise in diplomatic training with the University of Arizona’s leadership in scientific research, providing participants a unique opportunity to integrate scientific advancements and challenges into global policymaking. Tailored for scientists, engineers, and health professionals aspiring to enter the policy and diplomacy realm, as well as policymakers and diplomats interested in science-related issues – including climate, water, health, space, energy, artificial intelligence, and food security, the programme prepares graduates to contribute to the SDGs by addressing complex challenges in the field of science. 

The curriculum begins with a core module on Science Policy and Diplomacy (SPD), developed and delivered by experienced science diplomats from the University of Arizona’s College of Engineering through the University’s SPD Initiative. Led by thematic experts, the module covers topics such as climate science diplomacy, global health, artificial intelligence, and food security. This foundation is complemented by two specialized modules led by UNITAR: Mediation & Conflict Resolution, and Diplomatic Communication, which provide practical tools for navigating international negotiations, resolving disputes and effectively communicating scientific insights. These modules are tailored to the multilateral context, where diplomats and policymakers may encounter challenges in cross-cultural collaboration and consensus-building among a diverse range of stakeholders.

The programme incorporates a variety of interactive and applied learning opportunities, including case studies, group discussions, and simulation exercises that replicate real-world scenarios. This collaborative learning environment prepares graduates for roles in international governance and positions in prominent multilateral organizations, such as CERN, WHO, ITU, UNESCO, and IAEA among others. Throughout the programme, participants will be guided by faculty members from UNITAR and the University of Arizona including distinguished practitioners in scientific research, multilateral diplomacy, and international policymaking. By fostering cooperation between scientists and policymakers, the programme empowers participants to bridge the gap between scientific progress and global policymaking, equipping them with the knowledge and skills needed to tackle the world’s most pressing challenges. 

Upon completion, participants will earn a Professional Certificate jointly awarded by UNITAR and the University of Arizona, granting them a prestigious credential that will enable them to advance their careers and to make a meaningful impact in global policymaking. 

The United Nations Institute for Training and Research (UNITAR) was established in 1965 as an autonomous body within the United Nations with the purpose of enhancing the effectiveness of the work of the United Nations and its Member States in the fields of peace and security and in the promotion of economic and social development. UNITAR’s Division for Multilateral Diplomacy positions itself as a cross-cutting Division within the Institute, in order to support countries in strengthening national institutions for capacity-building at all levels, and fostering the participation of Member States in global governance, thus contributing to the acceleration of the 2030 Agenda. Due to its nature, the focus of the Division extends over a wide range of policy domains and training topics, including the preparation for key assignments within the United Nations System, environmental and climate change diplomacy, economic diplomacy, human rights diplomacy, frontier diplomacy, international law, and other related topics. In doing so, it focuses predominantly on capacities and skills-development activities, such as diplomatic report writing, public speaking, media relations and negotiation techniques, and public and digital diplomacy, among many others.

As one of the leading scientific research universities in the United States, the University of Arizona has been offering world-class education since 1885.  Delivering over 3000 programmes and renowned for its expertise in astronomy, space science, water resources, environmental studies and public health, the university plays a pivotal role in science innovation. The current programme is an outgrowth of the science policy and diplomacy initiative housed in the College of Engineering. Located in Tucson, Arizona, the campus is home to more than 55,000 students from all 50 states and over 100 countries.