Artificial Intelligence and Homeland Security (3) Revolutionary advances in artificial intelligence are changing homeland security in many ways. Although the precise nature of this change remains unclear, the arsenal of tools available to advance the mission has expanded alongside an evolving threat landscape. This practicum examines the implications of artificial intelligence for the homeland security enterprise. Students apply their knowledge, skills, and abilities on a practical, team-based project. The practicum builds professional skills crucial for success in careers in homeland security including project management, writing, teamwork, and conflict resolution. Students perform intensive research and analysis of academic, industry, and government sources to explore the threats and opportunities in this space. Students work with an external client to identify the scope of the project. The client for this practicum is Pangiam, a technology and consulting firm for government and industry partners and a global leader exploring cutting edge solutions to contemporary homeland security challenges.

Instructor: Trace Lasley

This practicum will focus on developing students' knowledge of the roles and responsibilities of various key stakeholders in responding to a serious cybersecurity incident. Students will learn how the U.S. government approaches cyber incidents from a legal, policy, and operational perspective, and how industry, the media, and partner nations must balance the challenges around a quickly unfolding cyber incident with incomplete information. Students will conduct a hands-on simulation of a National Security Council meeting, and role-play media companies, industry groups, and other affected organizations utilizing the policy analysis skills developed throughout this course. As part of the exercise, students will provide policy options to cabinet officials and advocate for particular actions. Following the simulation, students will have the opportunity to brief senior U.S. government officials in key cybersecurity agencies, as well as other cybersecurity experts. Students will gain a practical ability to prepare an incident response plan and develop concise, actionable written and oral policy options.

Instructors:
Iranga Kahangama, Director for Cyber Policy, National Security Council
Jonah Hill, Cyber Security Strategist, U.S. Secret Service

"Cyber policy is a dynamic and quickly-evolving area of U.S. national security policymaking. We're excited to share our experiences with the AU community and to offer a practicum that allows students to understand the challenges and options for responding to a cyber incident at a national level." - Jonah Hill, Instructor

"I’m looking forward to helping develop a strong talent pipeline for public service in the cyber policy sphere” - Iranga Kahangama, Instructor