Gain a deeper understanding of how technology influences society. Learn how policy decisions shape the development and use of technological systems.
Beginning June 1, 2026, undergraduate students, regardless of major, can enroll in the Technology Policy minor.
Through the Tech Policy minor, students will examine the social, political, philosophical, and economic implications of emerging and established technologies. The minor is suited for students interested in how decisions about technology are made and who wish to contribute to guiding technological innovation in a thoughtful and responsible manner.
The Curriculum
The curriculum (five courses total) is designed to equip students with the knowledge and analytical skills necessary to assess and articulate the multitude of complex relationships between technology and public policy.
Two required courses
- Introduction to Public Policy (PUBPOL 101)
- Policy Choice as a Value Conflict (PUBPOL 302)
Three approved electives
- One of the three electives must be at the 500-699 level
Adding the Minor
- Undeclared students: will have access once completing all items with their academic advisor.
- Trinity seniors in their graduating semester: contact the Trinity Graduation Staff.
- Pratt seniors: email prattdom@duke.edu.
- UNC Robertson Scholars: contact the Robertson Scholars Office.
- IDM and Program II students: student-originated IDM and Program II plans require plan changes to be submitted via administrative form.
Tech Policy Minor Co-Directors
David Hoffman is the Steed Family Professor of the Practice of Cybersecurity Policy at the Sanford School of Public Policy. He also formerly was the Associate General Counsel, Director of Security Policy and Global Privacy Officer for Intel Corporation. Hoffman formerly chaired the Civil Liberties and Privacy Panel for the Director's Advisory Board for the US National Security Agency.
Ken Rogerson is Professor of the Practice at Duke University's Sanford School of Public Policy, and former Research Director of the DeWitt Wallace Center for Media and Democracy.
Student Experiences & Highlights
Tech Policy & Public Policy
Wonder what opportunities are available at Sanford that combine technology and public policy? Here are highlights, from just a single month.