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BCS Essential Certificate in Artificial Intelligence (AI)
75% of learners would recommend this course
- Assess AI opportunities and risks confidently within your organisation.
- For CTOs, engineers, and change managers navigating AI adoption.
- We deliver BCS-accredited AI training with expert-led instruction throughout.
- Categories:
- Artificial Intelligence Data and Office Applications
- Level:
- Fundamentals
- Tier type:
- Performance
- Code:
- QAAIBCSE
- Exam:
- Yes - Included
Overview
This course provides a comprehensive introduction to the fundamental concepts of Artificial Intelligence (AI). Learners will explore key terminology, types of AI, and the principles of machine learning. The course examines how AI is applied across various industries, highlighting its benefits and practical uses. Delegates will gain insight into the stages of an AI project, including the machine learning lifecycle and project management approaches. Ethical, legal, and governance considerations are addressed, with a focus on regulatory compliance, data privacy, bias, accountability, and risk management. The course also evaluates the benefits, limitations, and challenges of AI, and discusses potential future developments, including emerging technologies and human-AI collaboration.
Prerequisites
- Basic understanding of technology concepts
- Interest in Artificial Intelligence and its applications
- No prior experience in AI required
Target audience
- Individuals seeking foundational knowledge of Artificial Intelligence
- Professionals interested in AI applications across industries
- Those aiming to understand ethical and governance aspects of AI
What's included
Select your preferred way to learn:
What is Virtual?
Live, instructor-led training delivered online
Interactive online sessions led by subject matter experts. Learners join live classes, take part in discussions, and complete practical exercises from any location, making it easy to fit collaborative learning into busy schedules.
If you prefer to connect to a course that is taking place in a physical classroom, you can choose our Remote Access option. .
Best for: Teams and individuals who want expert guidance, real-time collaboration, and flexible access.
What's included?
1 Day instructor led course
Exam: Yes - Included
AI-enhanced by Ela
6 month free access to QA learning platform
Free 6-Month Access: Learning Platform Discovery plan
Included FREE with every instructor‑led course
Get free guided access to the QA Learning Platform. Assess your skills, explore in-demand topics, and understand which areas to focus on.
Learn AI, Cloud, Data, and Leadership skills at your own pace.
Put skills into practice with hands-on Labs and Simulabs.
Validate knowledge and highlight gaps with skills assessments.
What is bespoke training?
Custom instructor-led training designed by QA to fit your needs
Tailored programmes built around your organisation’s goals, challenges, and skill levels. Delivered in the format that suits you to maximise relevance and impact.
Best for: Organisations and teams looking to target specific business priorities and capabilities with QA subject matter expertise.
Find out more about the course:
Outline
Fundamental Concepts of Artificial Intelligence
- Define Artificial Intelligence and its key terminology
- Distinguish between types of AI, such as narrow and general AI
- Explain the principles of machine learning and its capabilities
- Explore the role of data in AI systems
- Discuss how AI systems learn and adapt
Applications and Benefits of AI Across Industries
- Examine AI applications in healthcare, including diagnostics and patient care
- Explore AI use in finance, such as fraud detection and risk assessment
- Review AI’s impact on education, including personalised learning and administration
- Analyse AI in manufacturing, focusing on automation and quality control
- Investigate AI’s role in IT, including cybersecurity and process optimisation
Stages of an AI Project and Project Management Approaches
- Outline the machine learning lifecycle, from data collection to model deployment
- Identify key steps in developing an AI solution
- Compare project management approaches: agile, waterfall, and hybrid
- Discuss how to select an appropriate project management method for AI projects
- Highlight the importance of iterative development and stakeholder engagement
Ethical, Legal, and Governance Considerations in AI
- Identify regulatory compliance requirements for AI systems
- Discuss data privacy concerns and protection measures
- Examine issues of bias and fairness in AI algorithms
- Explore accountability and transparency in AI decision-making
- Review risk management strategies for AI implementation
Evaluating Benefits, Limitations, and Challenges of AI
- Assess the advantages of AI for organisations and society
- Identify limitations and potential risks associated with AI technologies
- Discuss the impact of AI on employment and workforce dynamics
- Consider organisational challenges in adopting AI solutions
- Evaluate societal implications, including accessibility and public perception
Future Developments in AI
- Explore emerging technologies in the AI field
- Discuss trends in human–AI collaboration
- Consider the implications of AI advancements for individuals and organisations
- Reflect on potential changes in society driven by AI innovation
- Anticipate challenges and opportunities in future AI development
Exams and assessments
This course includes the BCS Essentials Certificate in Artificial Intelligence exam, delivered via remote proctoring through the Questionmark portal.
- Format: remote proctored online examination
- Scheduling: candidates book their exam session via the Questionmark portal at a time of their choosing, but no earlier than after 5pm on the final day of the course
- Successful candidates are awarded the BCS Essentials Certificate in Artificial Intelligence.
Hands-on learning
- Learners will engage in practical activities to apply AI concepts
- Exercises may include analysing case studies and discussing real-world applications
- Opportunities for collaborative learning and problem-solving are provided
Learning outcomes
Delegates will learn how to:
- Explain the fundamental concepts of Artificial Intelligence, including key terminology, types of AI, and machine learning principles
- Describe the applications and benefits of AI in healthcare, finance, education, manufacturing, and IT
- Outline the key stages of an AI project, including the machine learning lifecycle and project management approaches such as agile, waterfall, and hybrid
- Identify ethical, legal, and governance considerations related to AI, including regulatory compliance, data privacy, bias, accountability, and risk management
- Evaluate the benefits, limitations, and challenges of AI, considering its impact on employment, organisations, and society
- Discuss potential future developments in AI, including emerging technologies, human–AI collaboration, and implications for individuals and organisations
Good to know
QA is an approved training provider for ELCAS, proud to support service leavers in their transition into the tech industry. Learn more about Elcas approved training here.
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What our customers are saying
“As a leading Cloud Solutions Training Services Partner, QA’s Microsoft 365 Copilot Adoption Accelerator offers organisations an innovative and scalable training solution to increase user productivity, confidence, and consistent best practice use of Copilot across the business.”
Jeroen van Hilten
Global Partner Sales Executive, Microsoft Worldwide Learning
"The AI Champions Pathway was invaluable at really helping to super-charge AI adoption across Awaze... we've seen the application of AI-first thinking grow rapidly; from simple everyday ChatGPT usage for communications, to the creation of GPTs, to evolved complaints handling processes. As a business, we now see innovative, AI-first thinking as a key enabler to our strategic priorities, rather than a nice-to-have.”
Charlotte Hickey
People Transformation Lead, Awaze
“QA's training and hands-on labs are a powerful approach to maximising the value of Microsoft 365 Copilot adoption. Copilot is a once-in-a-generation technology, and using QA to learn this technology is a smart way to harness AI-driven productivity.”
Tatiana Arventi
Senior Go To Market Manager - M365 Copilot Microsoft UK
Portfolio Director
Dr Vicky Crockett
Portfolio Director – Artificial Intelligence
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When will I receive my certificate?
Certificates of Achievement are issued at the end the course, either as a hard copy or via email. Read more here.