Q: What’s the difference between an AI course, Specialization, and Professional Certificate?

A course focuses on a specific topic. For example, AI For Everyone introduces AI without requiring coding skills. A Specialization is a sequence of courses that build deeper expertise, like the AI Foundations for Everyone Specialization from IBM. A Professional Certificate prepares you for specific job roles with portfolio-building and career insights—like the IBM AI Engineering Certificate .

Q: What will I learn in an AI course?

AI courses cover a range of topics, including algorithms , supervised and unsupervised learning, deep learning , and how AI is used in fields like healthcare , finance , and robotics . Some courses also introduce tools like Python , TensorFlow , and PyTorch .

Q: What is typically included in an AI course?

AI course content often covers machine learning , deep learning , neural networks , natural language processing , and computer vision. It may also include hands-on projects using tools like Python and TensorFlow . Courses like AI For Everyone by Andrew Ng on Coursera offer an accessible starting point, while more advanced programs dive deeper into algorithms and model training.

Question 1

What are the best AI courses online?

Accepted Answer

Browse the AI courses below—popular starting points on Coursera.

Question 2

How do I choose the right artificial intelligence course for my goals?

Accepted Answer

Start by considering how you want to apply AI—whether you're aiming to build foundational knowledge, develop models, or explore applied uses like chatbots or computer vision.

For foundational AI theory and applications, start with AI For Everyone by Andrew Ng (no coding required).
For hands-on model development and machine learning, explore the Machine Learning Specialization also by Andrew Ng.
Interested in building with AI tools? Consider Generative AI with Large Language Models from DeepLearning.AI and AWS.

Question 3

Which artificial intelligence course should I start with as a beginner?

Accepted Answer

If you're new to AI or don't have a technical background, these beginner-friendly courses provide a solid starting point:

AI For Everyone – A non-technical overview of AI.
Introduction to Artificial Intelligence (AI) by IBM – Offers beginner-level instruction on AI concepts and practical use cases.
Fundamentals of Reinforcement Learning by the University of Alberta is accessible to those new to AI, with some math background.

Question 4

Generative AI: Introduction and Applications vs Introduction to Generative AI: What are the key differences?

Accepted Answer

The Generative AI: Introduction and Applications course by IBM spans 8 hours and covers deeper aspects of:

Machine learning
Virtual environments
Responsible AI

In contrast, the Introduction to Generative AI course by Google Cloud can be completed in 1 hour, focusing more on:

Artificial intelligence
Deep learning
Google Cloud Platform

Both courses address the core topics of generative AI but differ markedly in their depth and specialization. Choose based on your preference for credential recognition and specific skills needed for your career goals."

Question 5

What’s the difference between an AI course, Specialization, and Professional Certificate?

Accepted Answer

A course focuses on a specific topic. For example, AI For Everyone introduces AI without requiring coding skills.
A Specialization is a sequence of courses that build deeper expertise, like the AI Foundations for Everyone Specialization from IBM.
A Professional Certificate prepares you for specific job roles with portfolio-building and career insights—like the IBM AI Engineering Certificate.

Question 6

Need help choosing the right AI course?

Accepted Answer

Take our short quiz to find the artificial intelligence course that best aligns with your interests and goals. Whether you're exploring foundational concepts, machine learning, or tools like chatbots and generative AI, the quiz can help guide your next step. Start the quiz.

Prefer to explore options interactively? Use ChatGPT to compare top-rated courses based on your preferences.

Question 7

Can I take free artificial intelligence courses on Coursera?

Accepted Answer

Yes. You can start learning artificial intelligence on Coursera for free in two ways:

Preview the first module of many artificial intelligence courses at no cost. This includes video lessons, readings, graded assignments, and Coursera Coach (where available).
Start a 7-day free trial for Specializations or Coursera Plus. This gives you full access to all course content across eligible programs within the timeframe of your trial.

If you want to keep learning, earn a certificate in artificial intelligence, or unlock full course access after the preview or trial, you can upgrade or apply for financial aid.

Question 8

What will I learn in an AI course?

Accepted Answer

AI courses cover a range of topics, including algorithms, supervised and unsupervised learning, deep learning, and how AI is used in fields like healthcare, finance, and robotics. Some courses also introduce tools like Python, TensorFlow, and PyTorch.

Question 9

Do I need a background in coding or math to start learning AI?

Accepted Answer

Not necessarily. Some beginner AI courses are designed to help you learn the basics without prior experience. However, for more advanced topics, a background in Python and math (especially linear algebra and probability) can be helpful.

Question 10

What is typically included in an AI course?

Accepted Answer

AI course content often covers machine learning, deep learning, neural networks, natural language processing, and computer vision. It may also include hands-on projects using tools like Python and TensorFlow. Courses like AI For Everyone by Andrew Ng on Coursera offer an accessible starting point, while more advanced programs dive deeper into algorithms and model training.

Question 11

What is AI design?

Accepted Answer

AI design is the process of creating user experiences and systems that incorporate artificial intelligence. It includes designing for adaptability, transparency, and user trust in AI-driven products. Courses like Foundations in Human-Centered AI from Northeastern University on Coursera teach how to build intuitive, ethical, and effective AI-powered experiences.

Artificial Intelligence Courses

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Find the best AI course for your goals

AI in Financial Services: Foundations through future trends

GenAI for Execs & Business Leaders: Integration Strategy

Open Data and Intelligent Finance

AI Applications in Accounting and Finance

Accounting Analytics

Practical AI and prompting for finance professionals

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Introduction to AI for finance professionals

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GenAI in Action: From Theory to Real-World Impact

Designing the Future of Finance

Fundamentos de Inteligência Artificial para Finanças

Habilidades de Excel Aplicadas a Negocios: Nivel Avanzado

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In summary, here are 10 of our most popular artificial intelligence courses

Frequently Asked Questions about Artificial Intelligence

What are the best AI courses online?‎

How do I choose the right artificial intelligence course for my goals?‎

Which artificial intelligence course should I start with as a beginner?‎

Generative AI: Introduction and Applications vs Introduction to Generative AI: What are the key differences?‎

What’s the difference between an AI course, Specialization, and Professional Certificate?‎

Need help choosing the right AI course?‎

Can I take free artificial intelligence courses on Coursera?‎

What will I learn in an AI course?‎

Do I need a background in coding or math to start learning AI?‎

What is typically included in an AI course?‎

What is AI design?‎

Other topics to explore