AI Ethics in the Digital Economy
Micro-DegreeOnline

AI Ethics in the Digital Economy

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Program Details

  • Language: English
  • Fees: €900
  • Study Mode: Full-time / Part-time
  • Registration Deadline: 30th September 2027
  • Entry requirements:
    • High school diploma or equivalent
    • Basic computer literacy
    • English Level B1 (CEFR) or equivalent

Study Access

Pay for one quarter and have access to the learning materials for 6 months, with the option to extend access if needed.

Program Coordinator

Prof. Dr. Maren Borkert
Prof. Dr. Maren Borkert

About This Course

Over the next 12 weeks, you’ll be immersed in the world of data ethics and AI. The course is structured with 2 Prep weeks, 8 course weeks, and 2 Post-course weeks. It is carefully designed to move from foundations to practice: beginning with the origins of data ethics and philosophy of science, through case studies of failures and best practices, to global frameworks, speculative futures, and a capstone design project. Along the way, students will debate, research, and design - gaining both conceptual insights and applied skills to navigate responsible AI in practice.

Whether you are preparing for a career in tech, policy, entrepreneurship, or research, this course will challenge you to ask deeper questions: not just what AI can do, but what it should do and how.

Learning Objectives

y the end of this course, students will be able to:

  • Understand the historical and philosophical roots of data ethics, from early computing to contemporary AI debates. 
  • Analyze real-world case studies of data and AI failures across sectors such as justice, labour, health and democracy.
  • Compare global approaches to AI ethics (EU, US, China, OECD, UNESCO) and assess their strengths and limits.
  • Explore dystopian and utopian futures of AI, reflecting on risks, opportunities, and preferred futures.
  • Apply ethical principles and frameworks to design responsible AI systems in a final capstone project.

Course Structure

  • Week 1–2: Origins of Data Ethics, AI & Philosophy of Science
  • Week 3: Case Studies of Ethical Failures (Dark Mirror Week)
  • Week 4: Global Frameworks for Data & AI Ethics
  • Week 5: Global AI Ethics Negotiation (Model UN-Style Simulation)
  • Week 6: Dystopian & Utopian Futures of AI
  • Week 7: Case Studies of Best Practices in Responsible AI
  • Week 8: Designing for Responsible AI (Capstone Project)

Study Programs

The course is selected as an elective in all Postgraduate Programs

Micro Degree

  • This course is offered as a micro degree.
  • German UDS Micro Degrees are compatible with the European MOOC Consortiums Common Micro Credentials Framework.
  • Micro Degrees will be rewarded with an equivalent of 5 ECTS.
  • Micro Degrees are offered to non-regular students and require a fee of €900.

Requirements

Knowledge and skills as provided in the Prep course.

General Information

  • Teaching Format: Interactive lecturer, case study discussions, simulations, and project-based learning.
  • Total Workload Master: 125h (40h/85h) / 5 ECTS
  • Total Workload MBA: 100h (40h/60h) / 4 ECTS
  • Total Workload Micro Degree: 125h (40h/85h) / Equivalent to 5 ECTS
  • Module coordinator: Prof. Dr. Maren Borkert
  • Examinations: Quizzes, short case study presentation, deep dive video & reflection assignment, project report.
  • Offered: Odd quarters

Frequently Asked Questions

German UDS offers a range of cutting-edge digital programs in MBA, Master’s Programs and Micro-Degree Programs. Please refer to our University’s Study program page for further details.

Micro-Degree Programs:
- No specific requirements
Master’s Programs:
- Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field with a minimum grade of 2.5 (German system) or equivalent
- English: Minimum B2
Additional requirements may apply (e.g., work experience for MBA & M.A. programs). Visit our admissions page for full details.

For our study programs you can apply as follows:

  • Micro-Degree Programs:
    Micro-Degree programs can be booked directly on our Micro-Degree page. Simply browse our available Micro-Degrees and enroll immediately without any application process.
  • MBA and Master’s Programs:
    01 Register/Login
    Begin by creating an account.
    After creating a new account, you’ll receive an email with a verification link. Click the link to verify your email address before proceeding.
    If you already have an account, simply log in to continue.
    02 Start Your Application
    After filling out the form, be sure to check your email. You will receive a message from us containing a direct link to start your application.
    Go to the “Start your Application!” and begin your application journey.
    Note: This option becomes available only after completing the registration and login.

MBA programs: €7,500 per year
Master’s programs: €7,500 per year
Micro-Degrees: €900 per program
For full details, visit the official admissions page.

Reliable high-speed internet connection
Computer (Windows or Mac) with webcam and microphone

Student life at German UDS is designed for maximum flexibility, enabling learners to study anytime, anywhere, and at their own pace. Whether enrolling in a free course or a full degree program, students have full access to online course materials and complete assignments within set deadlines, making it easy to balance education with personal and professional commitments. In addition to academic flexibility, students also enjoy a vibrant virtual campus experience through COVE – our Campus of Virtual Education. COVE provides an immersive digital environment where students can hang out in virtual spaces like the cafeteria, lounge, or library. It’s a place to connect, chat, and build friendships beyond the classroom. Regular online events, social gatherings, and themed meetups offer students opportunities to network, collaborate, and be part of a supportive international community.