Graduate Certificate in Internet Governance Evaluation
Published on June 27, 2025
About this Podcast
HOST: Welcome to our podcast, today I'm thrilled to be joined by Dr. Sophie Lawrence, an expert in Internet Governance and the lead instructor for the new Graduate Certificate in Internet Governance Evaluation. Welcome, Sophie! GUEST: Thank you for having me! I'm excited to be here. HOST: Let's dive right in. Can you tell us about your experience in Internet Governance and what drew you to this field? GUEST: Of course! I've been working in Internet Governance for over a decade now. My interest was sparked by the need to ensure a free, open, and secure internet for all. I focus on policy analysis, data privacy, and digital rights. HOST: Fascinating! Now, for those unfamiliar, can you explain what Internet Governance is and why it's essential in today's digital age? GUEST: Absolutely. Internet Governance refers to the rules, procedures, and standards that guide how the internet operates and evolves. It's crucial because it impacts cybersecurity, digital rights, and multilateralism, shaping our online experiences and affecting society at large. HOST: That makes sense. Now, let's talk about the Graduate Certificate in Internet Governance Evaluation. What makes this course unique and relevant for professionals? GUEST: This course stands out by focusing on evaluation skills. We teach policy and data analysis, as well as stakeholder engagement techniques. This practical approach allows students to gain hands-on experience, making them competitive in the job market and well-equipped to tackle real-world challenges. HOST: Speaking of challenges, what do you see as the most pressing issues in Internet Governance today, and how does the course address them? GUEST: One major challenge is the rapidly evolving nature of the internet and the policies surrounding it. In our course, we use case studies and real-world projects to keep students up-to-date with current trends and help them develop strategies to adapt to this ever-changing landscape. HOST: Great! Lastly, where do you see the future of Internet Governance, and how does this course prepare students for what's to come? GUEST: I believe Internet Governance will continue to play a vital role in shaping our digital society. This course equips students with the necessary skills to analyze and evaluate internet governance frameworks, ensuring they're prepared to contribute to this evolving field and make a positive impact. HOST: Dr. Sophie Lawrence, thank you so much for joining us today and sharing your insights on the Graduate Certificate in Internet Governance Evaluation. It's been a pleasure and incredibly informative! GUEST: Thank you for having me! It was great discussing this important topic with you.
