The pace of change has never been faster, and artificial intelligence is rapidly reshaping every aspect of our lives. To help professionals and lifelong learners build the skills to navigate this new landscape, Washington University in St. Louis is launching the Fundamentals of AI Extend(Ed)™ Professional Certificate.
The program is offered through WashU Continuing & Professional Studies (CAPS) and developed in collaboration with the Digital Intelligence & Innovation (DI2) Accelerator, the university’s hub for digital transformation and AI innovation. Together, CAPS and DI2 are opening new pathways for learners to understand, use, and lead with AI.
About the program
The Fundamentals of AI certificate is a 9-week, non-credit program designed for anyone curious about AI—no coding background required. Through three hands-on modules, participants will:
- Work directly with AI tools from day one, building confidence through exploration and practice.
- Understand how AI works (without the math) by exploring concepts like pattern recognition, predictive models, and machine learning through intuitive, no-code tools.
- Examine AI in the workplace and society, tackling questions of ethics, bias, and accountability while designing a practical AI solution tailored to their own field.
By the end of the program, learners will walk away with both a foundational understanding of AI and the ability to apply it in real-world contexts.
A shared commitment
The partnership helps CAPS broaden its focus on improving the regional workforce with added support from DI2. The resulting program provides working professionals with vital insights into rapidly-changing technology.
“This is about more than just understanding AI or using it to write emails. It’s about equipping people with the tools and confidence to apply it meaningfully across their work and lives in transformative ways,” says Dan Maranan, executive director of the DI2 Accelerator and lead instructor for the program. “Seeing learners light up as they discover what AI can unlock, that is what fuels my work with DI2. It’s about sparking curiosity and empowering people to be a part of this transformation, not just stand by and watch it happen.”
Structured for modern learners who are balancing personal and professional responsibilities with their education, the program is practical. This certificate lowers the barrier of entry for those with little to no experience in AI or computer science. Dorris Scott, academic director of data studies at WashU’s School of Continuing & Professional Studies, explains: “Some learners might feel more comfortable taking this course to test the waters before making a deeper educational commitment.”
The Fundamentals of AI certificate begins Sept. 29 and is open to professionals from all backgrounds. Enrollment is now open through WashU CAPS.