Applications are now open. Early-bird deadline: July 8. Regular deadline: July 19.
Apply nowAbout the Course
Who this is for
Module 1: An Introduction
Module 2: A Research Outlook
Course Structure
Module 1: An Introduction (Aug 19 – Sep 4, 2026)
Unit 1: AI Agents, Superintelligence, and the Alignment Problem
Unit 2: Technical Foundations and Overview of Agent Measurement and Evaluation
Unit 3: Current governance mechanisms across the AI agent lifecycle (in the absence of new laws)
Unit 4: Limits of existing legal frameworks and emerging governance mechanisms
Module 2: A Research Outlook (Sep 7 – Oct 2, 2026)
Research Stream 1: Liability Allocation for AI Agents (Ex-Post Regulation)
Research Stream 2: Legal Alignment and Law-Following AI (Ex-Ante Design)
Research Stream 3: Technical Infrastructure and Systemic Risk
Research Stream 4: Regulatory Frameworks and Industry Governance
Research Proposal / Writing Competition
A key part of the training participants receive across both modules of AI Agents & the Law is the ability to write thoughtfully about the application of law to AI agents. To develop this skill, participants are encouraged to prepare and submit a short research proposal that poses a research question drawn from one of the four streams and outlines a plan for addressing it. These submissions form the basis of an optional writing competition open to all Module 2 participants, with cash prizes awarded for the first-, second-, and third-best entries. The resulting research proposal may also serve as an individual writing sample for those applying for a research fellowship.
Apply
Applications are open now. Early-bird deadline July 8, 2026; final deadline July 19, 2026.
Full application — for most applicants.
Experienced professional in government, policy, or academia? Submit a shorter expression of interest instead.
FAQ
Can I take this course while working or studying full-time?
Can I apply to Module 2 only (without applying to Module 1)?
What is the difference between an Expression of Interest (EoI) and an application?
Is there a fee to participate?
When can I expect to hear back about my application?
How many people will you accept into the course?
What does the early-bird application entail?
What if I miss the early-bird deadline?
How long does the application take?
Can I use AI to write my application?
What if I cannot attend the lectures live, and are sessions recorded?
How much reading is there, and can I use AI to get through it?
What will I receive upon completion?
Can I get university credits or CLE credits for participating?
Are there additional opportunities for networking and mentorship?
I'm a law professor and I'd like to learn more about the syllabus.
I have a question that isn't answered here.
CONTACT
The Vista Institute for AI Policy is a fiscally sponsored project of Rethink Priorities, EIN 84-3896318.