Engineering Leadership and Public Policy, Undergraduate Certificate
The Engineering Leadership and Public Policy certificate program at the Tickle College of Engineering, in collaboration with the Howard Baker School of Public Policy, is designed to equip engineers with leadership skills and a foundational understanding of public policy.
Program overview
This nine credit interdisciplinary program integrates engineering principles with policy analysis, preparing students to navigate the increasingly complex intersection of technology and government regulation. Topics include strategic leadership, ethical decision-making, technology policy, and public sector leadership.
Why Study Engineering Leadership and Public Policy at UT?
Students who participate in the Leadership in Engineering and Entrepreneurship Program develop key leadership skills and prepare for early career success. The cross-disciplinary program focuses on emotional intelligence, communication, conflict management, and team dynamics.
Learn from Industry Leaders
Learn from Entrepreneur in Residence Angelique Adams, connect with alumni and industry partners, and earn a 12-credit certificate in Engineering Leadership with options in entrepreneurship, project management, or public policy.
Gain Access to the Tools for Innovation
Access tools and programs that support innovation and entrepreneurship, including the Anderson Center for mentorship and business growth, UTRF for protecting and commercializing research, and I-Corps for hands-on training to bring inventions to market.
What can you do with an undergrad certificate in Engineering Leadership and Public Policy after graduation?
Graduates of the program will be well-positioned for roles that require both technical expertise and policy awareness, including:
- Policy Advisors or Analysts focusing on technology, energy, or environmental policy — Leaders in public-private partnerships and infrastructure projects
- Advocacy roles within professional engineering societies
- Consultants specializing in compliance, sustainability, or innovation policy
Featured Courses
Below are some of the courses that students in our program can choose to take.
HBS 434 Public Organization, Theory, and Behavior
Examination of organizational theory and behavior with emphasis on implications for public management. Includes theories of decision-making, leadership, communications, and group dynamics.
EF 316 Engineering Leadership
This class introduces engineering students to the concepts, theory, and practice of engineering leadership. Topics include emotional intelligence, communication, decision-making, conflict management, and team dynamics. Through a combination of theory, practical exercises, personal reflection, and real-world case studies, students will gain valuable insights into leadership principles and their application engineering contexts.
HBS 303 National Challenges
Exploration of national challenges and public policy solutions.
HBS 304 State and Local Challenges
Exploration of state and local challenges and public policy solutions.
Ready to Join Us?
See yourself on Rocky Top? We’ve made it easier than ever to apply for admission. Learn more about our admission requirements and the steps to apply to be an Engineering Vol.
Related Programs
Check out a list of related programs to look into based on your interest in engineering leadership:
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