Regardless of where you work or how far along you are in your career, you’ve probably heard about how AI can be utilized in your job. In the past year alone, AI has become a staple in many fields and a hot topic in nearly all of them, and the pace of AI investment isn’t slowing down any time soon. If you’re looking to increase your AI literacy to match the pace of this technology, where should you start? An AI-focused certification could be the answer to building your skills and making sure you’re ready for the role of AI in your work.

What will I learn in an AI certification program?

A good AI certification program looks at artificial intelligence from both a foundational and a practical perspective. Coursework might include developing your understanding of the technology behind today’s AI tools, including machine learning, language processing, and algorithm development. You can also learn more about the programming languages used in AI, particularly Python, as well as existing frameworks for developing new tools.

An in-depth certification program also offers hands-on opportunities to gain a deeper understanding of how to effectively utilize AI. Students in an AI certification can learn how to train AI models, utilize AI tools in data processing and analysis, and compare and evaluate different AI systems. Additionally, many certificate programs examine the current applications and societal implications of AI across various disciplines. Coursework may include developing an understanding of ethical AI applications and the current issues being discussed, such as the use of generative AI in creative fields and the environmental impact of AI technology. In-depth coursework on AI provides students with a comprehensive understanding of how AI works, its optimal utilization, and the challenges that need to be addressed as AI usage becomes more widespread.

How can AI skills help me in my career?

AI skills are in high demand across disciplines. An early 2025 report from McKinsey and Company indicates that the vast majority of companies plan to invest significantly in AI over the next decade, while Forbes reported in 2024 that employers would rather hire a less experienced candidate with AI literacy than a more experienced candidate without it. Having even a baseline understanding of standard AI tools can give you a competitive edge; with AI being embedded in more products and services than ever, employers like to see that their potential employees can harness it to be more efficient and to solve problems. Though AI literacy signals that you can utilize modern technology in a way that benefits your employer, it perhaps more importantly indicates adaptability. The current AI boom is moving quickly, and being able to keep up demonstrates a level of forward thinking and an ability to adjust—skills that are valuable even outside the context of AI. An AI certification demonstrates that you can put today’s tools to work for both yourself and your next company while learning quickly and keeping your finger on the pulse of technological trends.

Is a certification program right for me?

A certification is a great option for individuals seeking to acquire new skills to enhance their careers, as well as for those who desire greater flexibility while learning. Certificate programs are typically shorter than full-time degree programs, ranging from a few months to two years in length, which makes it easier to pursue them alongside a full-time job or other responsibilities. If you’re looking to support your existing skill set with new knowledge, whether it’s to move up in your current career or to transition to a new one, a certification program could be a perfect fit to help with your goals.