The world of artificial intelligence (AI) has rapidly expanded, becoming integral to online searches and numerous business operations. For today’s professionals, understanding AI is essential for skill enhancement and career advancement.
While AI may have seemed like a distant dream just a few years ago, the launch of OpenAI’s ChatGPT sparked an AI revolution. Following this breakthrough, the release of new AI models, such as DeepSeek’s R1 has been a game-changer.
Fortunately, embarking on an AI learning journey doesn’t require a large financial investment in traditional college programs. Numerous free online courses provide comprehensive training. Here are five excellent options:
Generative AI Fundamentals by Microsoft
This course caters to individuals of all backgrounds, from beginners to seasoned experts. No prior programming experience is necessary. Available on Microsoft Learn, the curriculum covers fundamental concepts with practical examples using Python and TypeScript. The course comprises 18 lessons, teaching participants how to create generative AI applications with Python and TypeScript, and learn about LLMs and GPTs.
Google Prompting Essentials by Google
Available on Coursera, this 10-hour course offers insights from Google AI experts, focusing on building a library of effective, reusable prompts. It features videos, hands-on exercises, and assessments. Upon completion, participants receive a certificate. This course aims to help users craft better prompts, addressing the tendency for users to use short, less effective prompts, even though the ideal prompt may be longer.
Introduction to Generative AI by Google Cloud
This popular Coursera course has already enrolled nearly seven lakh people and requires no prior experience. It’s designed with a flexible schedule and covers the definitions, functionalities, and diverse models of generative AI along with its various applications. A shareable certificate is awarded upon completion, suitable for a LinkedIn profile. The course is offered in 13 languages, including English, Hindi, and French, and includes one assignment.
Introduction to AI by LinkedIn Learning
This course suits project and product managers, directors, executives, and students starting an AI career. However, anyone interested in learning the basics of AI can enroll for free. Led by Doug Rose, the 2-hour and 26-minute course explores the concept of “intelligence” in AI systems, differentiates between predictive and generative AI, and provides an overview of machine learning algorithms, artificial neural networks, foundation models, and deep learning.
AI for Everyone by DeepLearning.AI
Recommended for beginners, this popular Coursera course has over 17 lakh enrollments for its four modules. It takes about six hours to complete, and a shareable certificate is issued upon completion. Available in 23 languages, the course includes four assessments. The modules cover the definition of AI, AI projects, AI in business, and AI’s societal impact.
