The demand for artificial intelligence (AI) professionals is high — especially those who are equipped with the right knowledge and experience. Companies and organizations are looking to fill high-paying positions with employees they can trust on the front lines of artificial intelligence innovation. AI courses, certificates and certifications are a good way to gain experience if you don’t have any, but they’re also beneficial to those already in the field looking to explore a new specialization.
Keep reading to learn about some of the top AI classes, certificates and certification programs — plus tips for selecting the right one.
Reasons to Take AI Courses or Become Certified
As the field of artificial intelligence continues to grow at an extraordinary pace, professionals with specialized skills and AI certifications are becoming indispensable across industries. The global artificial intelligence market was valued at $233.46 billion in 2024 and is projected to grow to $1.77 trillion by 2032, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 29.2% during this period. North America currently leads the market, accounting for 26.1% of the global share in 2024.
This extraordinary growth highlights the need for professionals with validated skills, making AI certifications and courses an excellent way to stand out in a competitive job market.
Earning an AI certification or completing an artificial intelligence course can benefit professionals at every stage of their careers:
- For beginners, certifications provide foundational knowledge and hands-on experience, opening doors to entry-level roles like data analyst or AI technician.
- For experienced professionals, specialized certifications can demonstrate expertise in certain areas — such as machine learning, natural language processing or AI ethics — and help you advance to senior positions or transition into new specialties.
In today’s job market, AI certifications not only showcase your commitment to staying current but also provide practical skills that employers value. They can also serve as a stepping stone for further education, such as graduate programs in artificial intelligence or machine learning.
List of AI Certifications, Certificates & Courses
Finding the right AI certification or course can be a game-changer for your career. Whether you’re looking to break into the field, enhance your existing knowledge, or specialize in a specific area, certifications and courses offer targeted learning, hands-on experience, and industry-recognized credentials. To help you navigate the options, we’ve compiled a list of top AI certification programs that cater to a variety of career goals and experience levels.
Certificates
1. Certified Artificial Intelligence Engineer
This certification provides a comprehensive understanding of AI and machine learning fundamentals, making it ideal for aspiring AI engineers and data scientists.
| Certifying organization: United States Artificial Intelligence Institute Who it’s for: Undergraduates, graduates and diploma students, and professionals with 0–2 years of experience Key topics covered: AI, machine learning, deep learning, natural language processing, computer vision and reinforcement learning | Career opportunities: AI Engineer, Machine Learning Specialist, Data Scientist Experience needed: None Cost: $749 (includes study materials and videos) Program duration: Self-paced; 8–10 hours per week recommended |
2. CertNexus Certified Artificial Intelligence Practitioner Professional Certificate
A well-rounded program that prepares professionals to build, manage and implement AI solutions across various industries.
| Certifying organization: CertNexus (via Coursera) Who it’s for: Professionals with basic knowledge of AI concepts, databases and programming Key topics covered: Data structures, AI ethics, machine learning algorithms and AI process management | Career opportunities: AI Practitioner, Data Analyst, IT Specialist Experience needed: Foundational understanding of programming and databases Cost: Enroll for free; $49/month after free trial period (Coursera subscription) Program duration: 2 months at 10 hours per week |
3. Google Data Analytics Certificate
An accessible, beginner-friendly course designed to teach the essentials of data analysis and prepare learners for entry-level analytics roles.
| Certifying organization: Google (via Coursera) Who it’s for: Beginners with no prior experience in data analytics Key topics covered: Data analysis tools, R programming, data storytelling and visualization techniques | Career opportunities: Data Analyst, Entry-level Data Scientist, Junior Analyst Experience needed: None required Cost: Enroll for free; $49/month after free trial period (Coursera subscription) Program duration: 6 months with 10 hours per week recommended |
4. IBM AI Developer Professional Certificate
A foundational certification that covers AI basics, Python programming and machine learning concepts, ideal for those new to AI.
| Certifying organization: IBM (via Coursera) Who it’s for: Beginners looking to explore AI fundamentals and tools Key topics covered: Python programming, data science basics, deep learning, and machine learning | Career opportunities: AI Developer, Data Analyst, AI Specialist Experience needed: None required Cost: Enroll for free; $49/month after free trial period (Coursera subscription) Program duration: 6 months with 4 hours per week recommended |
5. IBM AI Engineering Professional Certificate
This program dives deeper into advanced AI and machine learning techniques, equipping learners with the skills needed for engineering AI systems.
| Certifying organization: IBM (via Coursera) Who it’s for: Professionals with intermediate knowledge of AI and Python programming Key topics covered: Deep learning, machine learning, Python libraries, hierarchical clustering and image processing | Career opportunities: AI Engineer, Machine Learning Engineer, Data Scientist Experience needed: A working knowledge of Python and Data Analysis and Visualization techniques; A minimum of high school math; fundamentals of Generative AI Cost: Enroll for free; $49/month after free trial period (Coursera subscription) Program duration: 4 months with 10 hours per week recommended |
6. IBM Data Science Professional Certificate
This beginner-friendly program combines data science tools and Python programming with hands-on projects to prepare learners for data-focused careers.
| Certifying organization: IBM (via Coursera) Who it’s for: Beginners interested in exploring data science concepts Key topics covered: Data science tools, Python for data science, AI development and machine learning with Python | Career opportunities: Data Scientist, Data Analyst, Machine Learning Specialist Experience needed: Basic Python programming knowledge Cost: Enroll for free; $49/month after free trial period (Coursera subscription) Program duration: 4 months with 10 hours per week recommended |
7. IBM Data Analyst Professional Certificate
This program provides hands-on training in data analysis, ending with a real-world capstone project to showcase your skills.
| Certifying organization: IBM (via Coursera) Who it’s for: Beginners with basic computer knowledge and familiarity with high school math Key topics covered: Introduction to data analytics, data visualization with Python and data analysis techniques | Career opportunities: Data Analyst, Business Analyst, Junior Data Scientist Experience needed: None Cost: Enroll for free; $49/month after free trial period (Coursera subscription) Program duration: Approximately 4 months with 10 hours per week recommended |
8. Microsoft Certified: Azure AI Fundamentals
A foundational certification for professionals and beginners looking to learn AI concepts using Azure Cognitive Services and Azure Machine Learning.
| Certifying organization: Microsoft Who it’s for: Professionals and beginners looking to build foundational AI knowledge with Azure services Key topics covered: AI concepts, Azure Cognitive Services and Azure Machine Learning | Career opportunities: AI Fundamentals Specialist, Azure Technician Experience needed: General programming knowledge is recommended but not required Cost: $99 for the certification exam Program duration: Flexible; free and paid preparation courses available |
9. Microsoft Certified: Azure AI Engineer Associate
An industry-recognized certification for professionals looking to create and deploy AI solutions using Microsoft Azure.
| Certifying organization: Microsoft Who it’s for: Professionals interested in building, managing and deploying AI solutions on Azure Key topics covered: Azure Cognitive Services, Azure Applied AI and AI-based app development | Career opportunities: Azure AI Engineer, Cloud Engineer, AI Specialist Experience needed: General programming knowledge recommended Cost: $165 for the certification exam Program duration: Flexible; free and paid preparation courses available |
Courses
10. AI for Everyone
A beginner-friendly course designed to demystify artificial intelligence and explain its applications for non-technical professionals.
| Certifying organization: DeepLearning.AI (via Coursera) Who it’s for: Non-technical professionals and beginners interested in understanding AI concepts Key topics covered: AI terminology, strategy, workflow and societal impacts of AI | Career opportunities: Business Analyst, Product Manager, AI Strategist Experience needed: None required Cost: $49 (one-time payment) Program duration: 6 hours (self-paced) |
11. Artificial Intelligence — edX
A platform offering a wide range of AI courses, including introductory and specialized topics, with free auditing and affordable paid options for unlimited access.
| Certifying organization: edX Who it’s for: Beginners to advanced learners looking for flexible AI courses Key topics covered: AI fundamentals, ethics in AI, data science and industry-specific AI applications | Career opportunities: AI Specialist, Data Scientist, AI Technician Experience needed: Varies by course; many are beginner-friendly Cost: Free to audit; prices range from $20 to $149 for full access Program duration: Varies depending on the course |
12. Artificial Intelligence — Udemy
An extensive library of AI courses catering to all skill levels, including options for AI beginners and professionals seeking advanced knowledge.
| Certifying organization: Udemy Who it’s for: Learners at all levels, including professionals looking to upskill in AI Key topics covered: AI fundamentals, business applications, AI programming and practical AI tools | Career opportunities: AI Developer, Business Analyst, AI Specialist Experience needed: Varies by course; many beginner-friendly options available Cost: Ranges from $9.99 to $109, with frequent discounts; over 100 courses are free Program duration: Varies widely depending on the course |
13. Google AI
Gain cutting-edge skills in machine learning and artificial intelligence with Google Cloud’s comprehensive learning paths and hands-on courses.
| Certifying organization: Google Cloud Who it’s for: Learners at all levels, from beginners to advanced developers, engineers and data scientists Key topics covered: Generative AI training, TensorFlow, Vertex AI, MLOps, machine learning systems and integrating AI tools into Google Workspace | Career opportunities: Machine Learning Engineer, Software Developer, AI Product Specialist Experience needed: None required for beginner paths; intermediate and advanced courses require foundational AI and programming knowledge Cost: Many resources are free; certifications and advanced courses may have associated fees Program duration: Varies by course; typically 10–40 hours per learning path |
14. Intro to AI Ethics
This course focuses on the ethical considerations in AI, including bias, fairness and designing human-centered AI systems.
| Certifying organization: Kaggle Who it’s for: Professionals and learners interested in understanding ethical considerations in AI Key topics covered: AI bias, fairness and human-centered design for AI systems | Career opportunities: Ethical AI Specialist, AI Compliance Officer, Data Scientist Experience needed: None required Cost: Free Program duration: Approximately 4 hours (self-paced) |
15. Introduction to Artificial Intelligence
An introductory course offering a broad overview of AI, covering topics like machine learning, deep learning and data science basics.
| Certifying organization: Coursera Who it’s for: Beginners seeking a broad overview of AI concepts Key topics covered: AI, machine learning, deep learning and data science basics | Career opportunities: Entry-level AI Specialist, AI Technician, Data Analyst Experience needed: None Cost: Enroll for free; $49/month after free trial period (Coursera subscription) Program duration: 12 hours (self-paced) |
16. Intro to TensorFlow for Deep Learning
A hands-on course for learners who want to master TensorFlow and apply it to deep learning projects in areas like NLP and forecasting.
| Certifying organization: Udacity Who it’s for: Intermediate learners looking to build deep learning applications using TensorFlow Key topics covered: Natural language processing, time series forecasting and transfer learning | Career opportunities: TensorFlow Developer, AI Engineer, Deep Learning Specialist Experience needed: Basic programming skills Cost: Free Program duration: 2 months (self-paced) |
17. Supervised Machine Learning: Regression and Classification by DeepLearning.AI
Stanford University’s renowned course introduces learners to core machine learning concepts, including supervised and unsupervised learning.
| Certifying organization: Stanford University (via Coursera) Who it’s for: Intermediate learners interested in machine learning fundamentals Key topics covered: Supervised learning, unsupervised learning, neural networks and support vector machines | Career opportunities: Machine Learning Engineer, Data Scientist, AI Specialist Experience needed: Basic programming and math knowledge (linear algebra) Cost: Enroll for free; $49/month after free trial period (Coursera subscription) Program duration: Approximately 33 hours (self-paced) |
18. IBM AI Foundations for Business Specialization
A business-oriented certification that explores how to apply AI in enterprise settings for better decision-making and strategic planning.
| Certifying organization: IBM (via Coursera) Who it’s for: Beginners and business professionals seeking to apply AI concepts in enterprise settings Key topics covered: AI foundations, data science basics and deploying AI in businesses | Career opportunities: Business Analyst, AI Strategist, Data Analyst Experience needed: None Cost: Enroll for free; $49/month after free trial period (Coursera subscription) Program duration: 1 month with 10 hours per week recommended |
19. Deep Learning Specialization
This specialization focuses on neural networks and deep learning techniques, preparing learners for advanced AI development roles.
| Certifying organization: DeepLearning.AI (via Coursera) Who it’s for: Intermediate learners interested in deep learning applications Key topics covered: Neural networks, deep learning algorithms and structuring ML projects | Career opportunities: Deep Learning Engineer, AI Developer, Research Scientist Experience needed: Basic Python programming and math knowledge (linear algebra) Cost: Enroll for free; $49/month after free trial period (Coursera subscription) Program duration: 3 months with 10 hours per week recommended |
20. The School of Artificial Intelligence
A comprehensive offering from Udacity with diverse AI courses that focus on real-world applications in healthcare, product management and programming.
| Certifying organization: Udacity Who it’s for: Professionals and learners seeking practical AI skills across various industries Key topics covered: AI for Healthcare, AI Product Management, AI Programming with Python and more | Career opportunities: AI Healthcare Specialist, Product Manager, AI Developer Experience needed: Varies by course; many beginner-friendly options available Cost: $249 per month (Udacity subscription) Program duration: Varies; typically 2–4 months depending on the course |
Where Is AI Being Used Today?
The short answer — everywhere! From education and finance to business and retail, artificial intelligence is an integral part of our lives and vital to the success of many organizations and businesses. Here are some common examples:
- Wellness apps
- Fitness trackers like Fitbit and Apple Watch
- Robots
- Self-driving cars
- Rideshare apps
- Chatbots
- Personalized recommendations (Amazon, Netflix, etc.)
- Smart assistants like Alexa and Siri
- Social media monitoring (such as Facebook facial recognition)
How to Choose the Right AI Course
There are many considerations when it comes to selecting the right artificial intelligence course, certificate or certification programs. Here are some things to keep in mind:
- How the course/program aligns with your career goals
- Cost (and whether any financial aid opportunities are available)
- Time commitment
- Flexibility (self-paced versus set dates and times)
- Online vs. in-person
Research is key. We recommend reading online reviews and speaking to professionals in the field who have previously taken a course or certification program you’re considering.
It’s also important to assess opportunities based on your current skills and knowledge. You want to ensure you are taking a course or certification program that is appropriate for your experience level.
