Professional Development for Global Public Diplomats

For two decades, the USC Center on Public Diplomacy (CPD) has been the leading destination for public diplomacy practitioners and international communication professionals seeking to sharpen their skills and analytical capabilities in today’s complex environment.

CPD Mini-Courses combine the latest social science research with practical communication tools to address real-world public diplomacy challenges. They also offer participants a collaborative setting to refine their expertise and build a global network of peers.

Trainings are offered on USC’s campuses in Los Angeles and Washington, D.C., as well as virtually. Mini-Courses typically span four sessions over two weeks (totaling eight content hours). Participants are expected to attend all modules. Below are available mini-courses, tuition, and information on how to apply. 

Mini-Course: Integrating AI into Your Public Diplomacy Strategy

This course explores how artificial intelligence is reshaping the practice of public diplomacy. Participants will gain a foundational understanding of AI and computing concepts, examine policy frameworks guiding responsible innovation, and learn how to apply AI tools for data-driven storytelling and engagement. Modules can include:

  • AI for Public Diplomacy Storytelling - Learn how AI enhances content creation and audience engagement, design an AI-based strategy, and prototype a communication solution. (2.5 hours)
  • Current Policies and Practices of AI in Public Diplomacy - Explore AI tools, platforms, and governance frameworks shaping the global information environment. (1.5 hours) 
  • Fundamentals of AI and Applications in Public Diplomacy - Understand the logic of machine learning and computational thinking, and their implications for PD strategy. ​(2 hours) 
  • How Will AI Shape the Future of Public Diplomacy - Examine cutting-edge research on AI’s societal impacts, including emotion, influence, and polarization.  (2 hours) 

 

Mini-Course: Monitoring and Evaluating Public Diplomacy Campaigns

This virtual workshop builds proficiency in using data to measure and enhance the impact of public diplomacy initiatives. Combining established methodologies with technology-driven tools, participants will learn to turn research and analytics into strategic insights. Modules include: 

  • PD Monitoring and Evaluation Techniques – Review case studies and methodologies for assessing program effectiveness. (1 hour)
  • Understanding Theory of Change for PD Impact Assessment – Develop a logic model connecting long-term goals with measurable outcomes. (1.5 hours)
  • Survey Design and Best Practices – Design surveys and apply analytics tools for impact evaluation. (2.5 hours)
  • Digital Data and Real-Time Analytics – Integrate social media and digital data for real-time insights. (1.5 hours)
  • Understanding and Designing for PD Network Effects – Apply social network analysis to engage and expand key audiences. (1.5 hours)

 

Mini-Course: Data-Driven Public Diplomacy

This course introduces the computing and data concepts essential to modern public diplomacy. Participants will learn to navigate diverse data sources, apply AI tools responsibly, and generate actionable insights from analytics. Modules include: 

  • Computational Thinking and Data Types - Understand various data forms—text, multimedia, geospatial, and big data—and their relevance to PD. (1.5 hours)
  • Fundamentals of Machine Learning and AI - Explore how AI and machine learning support, and sometimes challenge, PD efforts. (2.5 hours)
  • AI and Bots for Public Diplomacy - Develop an audience-based chatbot strategy and prototype. (2 hours)
  • Real-Time Analytics and Digital Insights - Gain hands-on experience analyzing live data to understand content life cycles and influence flows. (2 hours)

 

Mini Course: Customized Training for International Ministry

CPD offers specialized training programs tailored to ministries, agencies, and organizations worldwide. These modules can be adapted to meet specific institutional priorities and regional contexts. Modules can include: 

  • Public Diplomacy Strategy and Program Planning - Design, implement, and evaluate PD strategies aligned with national objectives. (1 hour)
  • Public Diplomacy Monitoring and Evaluation Techniques - Learn proven frameworks for assessing effectiveness and ensuring accountability. (1.5 hours)
  • Understanding Theory of Change for Public Diplomacy Impact Assessment - Map pathways to change that connect strategy to measurable impact. (2.5 hours)
  • Survey Design and Best Practices - Develop practical skills in questionnaire design, sampling, and data analysis. (1.5 hours)
  • Virtual Reality and Immersive Storytelling - Explore how emerging technologies can transform narrative diplomacy and global engagement. (1.5 hours)

 

Tuition

  • Single participant: $1,350 USD
  • Multiple participants (3+ from same organization): $1,200 USD per participant
  • USC alumni: $1,150 USD

 

Application

For information on how to apply, please contact cpd@usc.edu.