PIT@UMASS

Fostering responsible Technology

Students in Front of the CSL
AI for the Commonwealth Internship Program
Students Working on a Project
Working on a Client Project
Students Collaborating
Collaborating

Public Interest Technology (PIT) focuses on developing and implementing socially responsible solutions to the challenges of a technology-driven world. It is a critical foundation for 21st-century education, for the people who create technologies, and for those who use them, which is all of us.

At UMass Amherst, PIT students come from computer science, engineering, public policy, business, communication, and beyond. They take courses that bridge technology and society, where they get to assess real-world governance options and technology solutions, lead two active student organizations, participate in experiential learning opportunities, and produce real-world projects with community and government partners.

Why Students Choose PIT

  • Interdisciplinary by design. Courses are co-taught across the Manning College of Information & Computer Sciences and the School of Behavioral and Social Sciences.
  • Real-world impact. Through programs like AI for the Commonwealth, students work directly with public-sector partners on responsible technology.
  • Stackable credentials. The Undergraduate PIT Certificate and Graduate PIT Certificate lets you formalize your focus and signal it to employers. PIT classes can count towards various degrees.
  • Experiential learning opportunities. Students make an impact by applying applying cutting-edge technology to real-world challenges that impact communities across Massachusetts in programs like
  • No or low prerequisites to start. The introductory course is open to everyone, at every level, with no programming required.

Student Organizations

PIT students lead two active organizations — one undergraduate, one graduate — that turn classroom ideas into events, debates, and research conversations. Learn more about these clubs here.

PIT Courses

A pathway exists from your first exposure to PIT through graduate work in technology law, policy, and design. Explore our PIT classes. All classes are open to all majors.

Undergraduate PIT Certificate

Are you passionate about making a positive impact in society through technological innovations?  Are you concerned about how technology might be affecting society and want to help make positive change?  If so, the UMass Amherst Public Interest Technology (PIT) Certificate is for you!  Available to all undergraduate students, regardless of major, this certificate equips students with essential skills and knowledge in Public Interest Technology, providing the opportunity to develop skills at the intersection of society, technology, and the public interest. Learn more here.

Graduate PIT Certificate

The Graduate Certificate in Public Interest Technology equips professionals, graduate students, and change-makers with the skills to navigate and lead at the intersection of technology, ethics, law, and social impact. This fully online, 9-credit program is designed to help students build critical competencies in tech policy, governance, and responsible innovation, preparing them for careers that drive meaningful change across sectors. Learn more here.