AI courses are booming - here’s where to start learning
Artificial intelligence is changing nearly every job — and more people are signing up for courses than ever before. Whether you’re looking to boost your resume, earn a certificate, or just understand how AI fits into your work, there are plenty of ways to get started.
At Coursera, someone signs up for an AI course every five seconds. Marni Baker Stein, the company’s Chief Content Officer, says the demand is clear: “Whether you have five minutes or five months, we can meet you where you are and get you ready for what’s next.”
These courses range from short intros to full professional certificates, often designed in partnership with companies like Google, Microsoft, and IBM. A certificate from these organizations can be a real signal to employers — and many can be completed in less than six months.
Popular options include:
Google AI Essentials – a free beginner-friendly course on Google Cloud Skills Boost
IBM Introduction to AI – available through IBM SkillsBuild with optional certificates
DeepLearning.AI’s Generative AI for Everyone – designed to give anyone a solid foundation
Microsoft Learn AI Fundamentals – including training on Azure and Copilot tools
edX – certificates and even degree programs from top universities
LinkedIn Learning – guided paths with certificates tied to specific job roles
ClassCentral.com – a search engine that lets you browse AI courses across platforms
Most courses are flexible and online — you can learn at your own pace, on your own schedule. Some are free, while platforms like Coursera offer unlimited access for around $60 a month.
Baker Stein puts it simply: “Almost every sector, almost every job, almost every task into the future is going to be impacted by this new technology.”
If you want to make yourself more competitive for the jobs of tomorrow, AI courses are a great place to start.