Artificial Intelligence is transforming the world on a phenomenal scale, impacting virtually every business and career path.
To help you find the best educational resources to start your journey, we reviewed and rated some of the best AI courses available on the market.
This list includes both free and paid (premium) courses offered by some of the most reputable vendors in the landscape.
10 Top AI (Artificial Intelligence) Courses
- Fundamentals of Google AI for Web-Based Machine Learning
- DeepLearning: AI For Everyone
- IBM Applied AI Professional Certificate
- Artificial Intelligence A-Z™ 2023: Build an AI with ChatGPT4
- Udacity Artificial Intelligence Course
- Google: Google AI for Anyone
- AI For Business Specialization
- AI Foundations for Everyone Specialization
- Google: Introduction to Generative AI
- MinnaLearn: Elements of AI
1. Fundamentals of Google AI for Web-Based Machine Learning
Google has emerged as a pioneer in the AI space in recent years, investing in everything from natural language processing and generative AI to machine learning.
In this professional certificate course, students can learn all about the fundamentals of Google AI and web-based machine learning.
You’ll discover what AI can accomplish in the modern world and how AI, machine learning, and deep learning are connected.
The course covers an introduction to the TensorFlow.JS library and using machine learning in JavaScript.
You’ll also discover how to use existing machine learning models, create custom models from a blank canvas, and use pre-made models for object detection and natural language processing.
Why Take This Course?
Google’s program covers all of the disruptive technology in the AI field influencing the market today.
It kicks off with a basic introduction to AI for beginners and offers behind-the-scenes insights from Google AI experts and practitioners.
Students will acquire hands-on experience throughout the program, teaching computers to recognize images, sounds, and other forms of content.
Later in the program, the secondary course looks at Google AI for JavaScript developers, enhancing your basic knowledge of JavaScript, CSS, and HTML.
Students can retain existing models, use pre-trained models, and take their first steps towards a career as a web machine learning engineer.
There’s even a fully recognized certification from Google included for successful graduates.
Cost and Duration
Offered by Edx and Google, this program includes around 3 months’ worth of content if you commit to studying for around 3-4 hours per week.
However, you can choose to consume the resources at your own pace.
The full price of the course is approximately $395, although discounts are sometimes available. You can also test out components of the course before you enroll.
2. DeepLearning: AI For Everyone
Intended for true beginners in the AI space, the “AI for Everyone” course aims to give all learners the knowledge they need to leverage basic AI algorithms.
You’ll discover the meaning behind common AI terms, such as “deep learning” and “neural networks”.
The course also covers overviews of what AI can and cannot do and provides useful guidance on how you can apply AI to problems in an organization.
Students gain a behind-the-scenes insight into the steps involved in building AI projects and can learn more about how artificial intelligence impacts society.
It’s also a highly non-technical course delivered in easy-to-understand terms.
Why Take This Course?
This introductory course is ideal for beginners and engineers alike, covering all the basics students need to know to understand and use AI to their advantage.
At the start of the course, you’ll get a full introduction to AI and how it works.
As you move through the program, you’ll have an opportunity to leverage hands-on learning opportunities to build your own AI projects using models and frameworks.
You’ll discover what it feels like to build data science and machine learning projects.
Plus, the instructors cover tips on how to work with an AI team to build specific components of AI into your existing company while managing ethical considerations.
A full career certificate is also included, which can be shared on social media.
Cost and Duration
At a pace of around 3 hours a week of study, this course will take approximately 3 weeks to complete. However, you can choose to take the full course at your own pace.
After a 7-day free trial, a subscription to Coursera costs $39 per month for full access to all of the course content.
3. IBM Applied AI Professional Certificate
Created by an expert in the technology space, the IBM Applied AI professional certificate is another beginner-friendly course covering everything you need to know about artificial intelligence.
Throughout this flexible program, you’ll learn about the definition of AI.
Students gain an insight into the applications and use cases of different AI concepts, from machine learning and neural networks to deep learning.
Through hands-on projects, you’ll discover how to create virtual assistants and chatbots to be deployed on a website.
Moreover, you’ll get experience building your own AI-powered solutions using services from IBM Watson AI, Python, and APIs, requiring minimal coding.
Why Take This Course?
This certification program provides students with practical opportunities to use and understand AI in different contexts.
You’ll apply and implement computer vision strategies using Watson, OpenCV, and Python to build image classification models to deploy to the cloud.
Throughout the program, students get a behind-the-scenes look at the components of IBM Watson and how they can build their own intelligent chatbots without extensive programming and coding knowledge.
You’ll also experiment with using valuable AI tools, such as Python and Flask, to create intelligent solutions capable of solving a variety of real business problems.
This program comes with both a certificate and digital badge from IBM, showcasing your proficiency in applied AI concepts.
Cost and Duration
This course will take approximately 3 months to complete if you commit to a study schedule of 10 hours per week, although each module can be taken at your own pace.
Following your 7-day free trial of Coursera, a full subscription will cost $39 per month.
4. Artificial Intelligence A-Z™ 2023: Build an AI with ChatGPT4
One of the top courses on Udemy for those interested in AI, this comprehensive course examines the process of developing an AI chatbot using the latest ChatGPT4 generative technology.
With 3 downloadable resources, 20 articles, and 17 hours of video content, this program is packed with information.
Students will get a unique opportunity to apply AI concepts to a wide range of practical use cases.
You’ll build an AI using intuitive technology, solve real-world problems with your tools, and even create your own virtual “self-driving” car.
There’s also a host of valuable insights into state-of-the-art AI models and artificial intelligence theory.
Why Take This Course?
This comprehensive course takes a closer look at one of the most exciting aspects of AI in the modern world: generative AI.
You’ll begin with an introduction to the fundamentals of reinforcement learning and Q-Learning with visualization.
As you move through the program, you’ll learn how to implement generative AI concepts into different programs, creating self-driving cars, AI systems that can beat complex games, and more.
There’s even a valuable selection of “Annex” sections covering topics like artificial neural networks and convolutional neural networks.
Although you will need basic Python knowledge to get started, the course is ideal for beginners, with easy-to-follow step-by-step instructions.
Plus, it will help you to build an excellent portfolio for future career opportunities. Certification is included for successful graduates.
Cost and Duration
This course consists of a little over 17 hours of content, which means it will take around 6 weeks to complete at a pace of 3 hours of study per week.
The full course is available for $59.99, or users can sign up for a personal plan with Udemy at $15 per month for access to a range of courses.
5. Udacity Artificial Intelligence Course
With this Nanodegree course, taught by experts like Sebastian Thrun and Peter Norvig, students can expand their knowledge of AI and discover new methodologies for planning, optimization, pattern recognition, and more.
Though beginner-friendly, this course does require some basic knowledge of statistics, linear algebra, and Python (with object-oriented programming).
Throughout the program, you’ll learn how to create programs using foundational AI algorithms.
You’ll master Hidden Markov models, Bayes Networks, and participate in practical exercises to apply AI solutions to a range of common problems.
Why Take This Course?
Offering real-life insights from industry experts, as well as real-time support and career guidance, this comprehensive course is ideal for beginners.
The program begins with an introduction to artificial intelligence, where you’ll configure a programming environment.
As you progress through the modules, you’ll learn how to use classical graph search algorithms, with techniques like depth-first, breadth-first, and informed search heuristics.
Plus, you’ll even teach a computer character to solve complex problems.
The instructors guide students through concepts like automated planning with symbolic logic and modern automation.
Plus, you’ll learn all about the improvement optimization problems programmers face when implementing AI into real-world environments.
The course includes a certification, LinkedIn profile automation support, a GitHub review, and access to project feedback from experienced reviewers.
Cost and Duration
According to Udacity, most students take approximately three months to complete this program.
There are two ways to pay for the nanodegree. You can choose to pay monthly for $329 per month or access 3 months for an up-front payment of $837.
6. Google: Google AI for Anyone
Another of the best AI courses produced by Google, the “Google AI for Anyone,” provides beginners with a comprehensive introduction to what AI is and how it works.
There’s no prior knowledge required to get started, and the program is taught by Google experts.
Students will learn exactly what AI is used for in the modern world, leveraging hands-on opportunities to experiment with data and build their own AI models.
You’ll develop an understanding of neural networks, how machine learning works, and how AI programming is applied to various use cases.
Why Take This Course?
With the guidance of real Google experts, students in this course will discover everything they need to know about the applications of AI, and what AI programming looks like.
You’ll learn how to predict numbers with regression and make decisions with classification methodologies.
The course also covers insights into ethics and fairness in AI, and how applications can make mistakes as a result of poor data.
The course also forms a fundamental part of the Google AI for web-based machine learning professional certificate.
You’ll need to complete the full certification course to receive a credential from Google that you can apply to your resume or LinkedIn profile.
Cost and Duration
There are two ways to take the Google AI for Anyone course. Users can audit the course for free, with limited access to course materials. O
r they can access the full course for $157, with unlimited material access and professional certification.
The course takes approximately four weeks to complete at a pace of 2-3 hours of study per week.
7. AI For Business Specialization
Produced in collaboration with the University of Pennsylvania, the AI for Business specialization introduces the fundamentals of AI, machine learning, and big data.
The four-course series is intended for beginners with no prior experience necessary.
In this course, you’ll discover the ethics and risks of AI and how governance frameworks can be defined to apply AI fairly.
You’ll also explore the basics of people management in the design of HR functions with machine learning.
The course also covers effective marketing strategies using data analytics and how AI can transform how companies do business.
Why Take This Course?
This comprehensive course series includes insights from industry leaders, offering a behind-the-scenes view of AI and big data in the modern world.
By the time you finish the specialization, you’ll be able to implement powerful and ethical AI strategies for business and people management.
What’s more, students will have an opportunity to test their skills with practical hands-on projects, using data analytics, artificial intelligence, and machine learning.
The course looks at the impact of AI in multiple areas of business.
Not only will you get a fundamental insight into AI for non-data scientists, but you’ll also learn how to implement AI applications in HR, marketing, and finance landscapes.
A certification is also included, which you can show on your resume or LinkedIn profile.
Cost and Duration
At a pace of around 10 hours of study per week, this course will only take 1 month to complete, although you’re free to learn at your own pace.
Beginners can start with a 7-day free trial of Coursera. A full subscription to Coursera costs $39 per month for unlimited access.
8. AI Foundations for Everyone Specialization
Intended to provide students with an in-depth knowledge of the AI landscape, this specialization course from IBM and Coursera is ideal for beginners.
No previous experience in AI is necessary, and you can learn at your own pace.
The course provides a comprehensive insight into what AI is and how it can be used across various industries and landscapes.
You’ll become familiar with terms like deep learning, machine learning, and neural networks.
What’s more, you’ll have an opportunity to use some of the IBM Watson AI services that empower businesses to quickly build and deploy AI into products and solutions.
Why Take This Course?
This insightful course gives students an opportunity to develop their knowledge of AI from scratch, with useful behind-the-scenes insights into use cases and valuable hands-on learning projects.
You’ll learn how to build a chatbot powered by AI on a website without relying heavily on programming and coding knowledge.
Plus, you’ll be able to experiment with all of the components of IBM Watson for AI development.
The fast-paced course includes plenty of videos and step-by-step guidance, as well as an opportunity to build your own portfolio for future hiring opportunities.
There’s a certification included for successful graduates, which can be showcased on your resume or LinkedIn profile.
Cost and Duration
If you dedicate around 10 hours of studying per week to this program, you’ll be able to complete the course within 1 month.
Full access to Coursera costs $39 per month, although a 7-day free trial is available for new students.
9. Google: Introduction to Generative AI
Looking at one of the most exciting components of AI in the modern world, the introduction to generative AI from Google introduces students to tools like ChatGPT.
In this short course, you’ll learn how generative AI works and what use cases it can address.
Plus, you can use Google tools to develop your own Gen AI apps without extensive coding knowledge. No prior experience or knowledge of programming is required.
This fast-paced course is ideal for beginners who want to learn more about how generative AI influences the current digital landscape, marketing, customer service, and sales.
Why Take This Course?
Guided by experts from Google, this straightforward course is an excellent choice for beginners interested in generative AI applications.
You’ll discover how generative AI works and explore the straightforward tools companies can use to build their own apps.
The videos and documents included in the course examine how generative AI methodologies differ from common machine learning methods.
You’ll also take quizzes throughout the course to test your understanding of basic foundational concepts.
Although a full certification isn’t included with this course, you will get access to a digital badge you can apply to your social media profiles.
Cost and Duration
This course only takes a single day to complete, or around 45 minutes. It’s also available to access for free, with no subscription costs required.
10. MinnaLearn: Elements of AI
Designed to demystify the basic elements of artificial intelligence, this online course is ideal for those who want to learn how AI influences the world around us.
The series of free online courses were created by the University of Helsinki and MinnaLearn.
Throughout this program, you’ll discover what can and cannot be done with AI, and experiment with practical exercises to create your own AI solutions.
Each course section is broken down into straightforward resources, videos, and guides to walk you through the various elements of AI functionality.
Why Take This Course?
Great for beginners, this straightforward course is free and easy to access, with simple terminology throughout.
You’ll begin with an introduction to artificial intelligence, learning how it influences our lives and what it can really do in the modern world.
In the second course, students access a variety of free resources to learn about the actual algorithms companies use to create their own AI models.
Although it helps to have some Python programming skills for this section, you will receive extensive guidance.
By the time you’ve finished both courses, you’ll have a basic knowledge of how to start creating your own AI tools.
Though certification is not included in this course, it is an excellent introductory option for beginners.
Cost and Duration
This course collection is free to access. The first section includes a number of practical exercises and videos, which may take a couple of weeks to get through.
The second course includes about 50 hours of content.
Are Artificial Intelligence Courses Worth It?
Artificial intelligence knowledge has become a must-have for various industries, ranging from web development to marketing.
Stanford University’s AI index report found in 2022, the demand for AI skills was the highest it’s been in the US since 2014.
Taking one of the AI courses above will allow you to develop a deeper knowledge of some of the most important components of the AI landscape, from deep neural networks and machine learning to generative AI applications.
Depending on the courses you take, you may be able to prepare for a career in a range of fields, exploring roles like AI marketing expert, AI engineer, or AI development expert.
Methodology
There are tens of Artificial Intelligence courses and certifications on the market these days, and it’s challenging to find which ones are worth spending your time and money on.
We’ve reviewed many courses to create our top 10 list. Our main criteria were course quality, practicality, and vendor reputation.
Courses from companies that have been actively involved with AI for years, such as IBM and Google, are more valuable than courses from instructors who don’t have any working experience with AI.
Our recommendation is to start learning AI with the free courses, and if you find that this is an area to expand more, sign up for a premium course.
Conclusion
The best AI courses give students an opportunity to take advantage of the evolving world of AI and unlock new career opportunities in the modern world.
With AI set to influence virtually every role in the years to come, now could be the perfect time to refine your skills.
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