Science Policy Learning Opportunities

Invest in your future!

Our certificate programs are designed to equip early-career STEM professionals and students with the practical skills and essential concepts needed to transition into successful science policy careers.

Training Opportunities

Leaders Program

NSPN’s Leadership Program is a six-month, leadership development program that seeks to inspire, empower, and connect emerging leaders seeking to make a difference in the world.

Are you passionate about shaping the future of science and technology policy? Do you want to break barriers and lead impactful change in your community and beyond? The NSPN Leaders Program is your gateway to a transformative, career-accelerating experience.

Science Policy Communication

NSPN's Science Policy Communication Course equips early-career STEM professionals and students with the skills needed to effectively communicate complex scientific concepts to diverse audiences. This comprehensive course covers public speaking, writing for non-specialist audiences, and leveraging digital media. Participants engage in hands-on activities, individual and team projects, and receive feedback from experienced science communicators. By the end of the course, graduates will gain essential skills needed to convey scientific information in an engaging and understandable manner, build confidence in public speaking and media interactions, and create a portfolio of science communication pieces. Graduates will be well-prepared to engage with the public, and influence policy by effectively communicating their research and scientific knowledge.

Science Policy

NSPN’s Science Policy Training Certificate provides early-career STEM professionals and students with a transformative, hands-on experience to build essential skills in the science policy field. This 6-week intensive short-course focuses on skill development, effective communication, and exploring career paths. Participants attend virtual classes led by a talented science policy instructor and complete both individual and team projects. Graduates will gain introductory knowledge of science policy, enabling them to apply their skills to support organizations seeking scientists with policy expertise.

Science Diplomacy

NSPN's Science Diplomacy Training Course offers early-career STEM professionals and students the opportunity to gain valuable experience in science, technology & policy diplomacy. Participants will develop essential skills through cross-cultural, team-based virtual projects that provide hands-on professional learning opportunities. NSPN partners with esteemed organizations like the State Department, UNESCO and Meridian to deliver this course. Participants will create tangible outputs that contribute to the sponsoring organization's work and enhance collaboration opportunities for science diplomats. Graduates will gain essential diplomacy skills and be connected to the broader U.S. science diplomacy ecosystem.