UBC Certificate
- Online
- $4,875 to $6,175
The IT industry is undergoing a major transformation. As businesses increasingly rely on AI-based technologies to drive innovation and growth, the role of IT professionals is evolving to meet these new demands.
The new UBC Certificate in AI Skills Accelerator for IT, Digital and Enterprise Systems Professionals, developed by Extended Learning using the UBC AI competency framework from UBC IT, is a part-time online program that equips IT professionals and organizational leaders with essential knowledge and actionable skills in AI implementation, governance and ethics.
The flexible and comprehensive curriculum offers 20 stackable micro-courses across seven core tracks covering a spectrum of AI topics essential for today’s IT professionals in technical, managerial and leadership roles. Learners select the tracks that best align with their role and career goals, taking the micro-courses in order, progressing through three tiers – introduction, proficient and mastery. Each micro-course can be completed in just two weeks, making it easy to upskill quickly while balancing work commitments.
Whether you’re just starting your AI journey or looking to deepen your expertise, this structured program ensures you’re equipped to succeed in today’s fast-evolving tech landscape.
- Format: 100% online and instructor-supported with weekly real-time sessions
- Duration: Twelve micro-courses of two weeks each plus one AI Capstone micro-course, designed to be completed within 12 to 18 months
- Cost: $475 per micro-course, $1,125 for a three micro-course bundle, or $4875 for the full program when registering for all 13 micro-courses upfront. Institutional bulk discounts available
Information Session - August 11
Join this information session to learn about the UBC Certificate in AI Skills Accelerator for IT, Digital and Enterprise Systems Professionals. Get an overview of the program, curriculum, learning outcomes and what to expect. Meet the program leaders and instructors and bring your questions for the Q&A.
Program details
What this program offers
This program is designed to equip IT professionals and organizational leaders with essential knowledge and practical skills in AI across a range of topics, including:
- AI foundations
- AI for strategic decision making
- AI workflow automation
- AI governance and policy
- AI and cybersecurity
- AI and data literacy
- AI integration in enterprise
This program is highly customizable, enabling you to select the AI topics most relevant to your position, organization and career direction. By the end of the program, you will be able to:
- Understand and apply fundamental AI concepts and tools, including generative and discriminative AI, machine learning principles, generative AI modeling approaches and AI toolkits and applications
- Develop and implement comprehensive AI strategies aligned with business objectives, including leading cross-functional teams through complex AI transformations
- Understand how AI is transforming cybersecurity, and learn to deploy AI solutions including threat detection, response capabilities and defensive strategies
- Design and lead enterprise-scale AI cybersecurity programs, implementing advanced strategies, frameworks and policies to defend against evolving threats
- Understand the critical role of data in AI and work effectively with data evaluation methods, APIs and machine learning platforms
- Gain advanced data skills for AI applications including pipeline design, data analytics and statistical modeling, data governance frameworks and quality assurance protocols
- Drive operational innovation by using AI-automation to transform workflows and boost efficiency
- Develop governance frameworks for responsible AI adoption, addressing both ethical concerns and the need to manage organizational risk
- Effectively lead enterprise AI integration at scale and establish sustainable AI practices that drive long-term organizational success
- Leverage AI as a powerful tool for strategic planning, decision making, risk management and organizational innovation.
Who is this program for
The UBC Certificate in AI Skills Accelerator for IT, Digital and Enterprise Systems Professionals is ideal for forward-thinking professionals and organizations committed to leading in the rapidly changing landscape of AI-driven technology and business:
Technical professionals
- Developers, system architects, IT infrastructure specialists, product managers and cybersecurity analysts who need practical, hands-on experience in AI implementation, integration, and advanced system design.
- Professionals aiming to deepen their expertise in areas such as data literacy, machine learning, real-time threat detection and advanced cyber defense strategies using AI.
- IT staff seeking to apply AI concepts and tools to real-world business processes and organizational challenges, progressing from foundational knowledge to mastery-level competencies.
- Individuals looking for flexible, stackable learning options that allow rapid upskilling while balancing full-time work commitments, with micro-courses that can be completed in one to two weeks.
Non-technical professionals
- Managers, executives and decision-makers who must understand AI’s strategic, ethical and governance implications to lead digital transformation initiatives and make informed IT decisions.
- Organizational leaders responsible for integrating AI-driven decision-making into strategic planning, risk management and process optimization.
- Support staff and business professionals involved in the oversight or implementation of AI projects, who require foundational knowledge of AI concepts, governance frameworks and ethical considerations.
- Those interested in developing competencies in AI policy, risk management and the societal impact of AI technologies, with pathways designed to progress from introductory to advanced levels.
Additional audiences
- Teams or entire IT organizations seeking customized group training or tailored delivery to align with organizational goals and industry-specific needs.
- Professionals at any stage of their AI journey—from those just starting to explore AI fundamentals to those aiming to achieve mastery in specialized domains such as AI governance or cybersecurity.
- Individuals who value a flexible, online learning environment with live expert-led sessions, ensuring both accessibility and engagement.
Costs
Each micro-course costs $475. Register for three at once for $1,125, or register for 13 at once for $4875. The total program cost ranges from $4,875 to $6,175.
All fees are in Canadian dollars, subject to change and to GST (where applicable). For details on forms of payment accepted, please see How to pay.
Find more details on financial support options, or refunds, cancellations and transfers.
Courses and dates
The program offers 20 stackable micro-courses, each aligned with specific competencies to ensure learners develop practical, industry-relevant AI expertise. Each two-week micro-course takes approximately 14 hours to complete. Students complete a minimum of 12 micro-courses, plus one AI Capstone micro-course, to earn a certificate.
The program is organized into seven core tracks, each made up of two to three micro-courses structured in progressive tiers: Introduction (level 1), Proficient (level 2) and Mastery (level 3). The micro-courses in each track must be taken in sequence as each one builds on the previous one, with the AI Capstone micro-course designed to be taken last.
The seven core tracks cover a wide range of AI topics, enabling you to upskill based on your role and career goals. You can choose from tracks that emphasize managerial, technical or leadership skills, and customize your AI learning pathway accordingly.
Core tracks and micro-courses
- AI Foundations: Explore core AI concepts and tools, moving from fundamental knowledge to practical application in business and organizational settings. Learners begin with introductory modules and progress toward understanding how AI can drive strategic decision-making and management innovation.
Note: AI Foundations 1: Concepts and Tools should be completed before taking any other micro-courses in this program, except for the AI Governance and Policy track. Students who have previously completed the UBC Extended Learning Micro-certificate in Artificial Intelligence Cloud Solutions Strategy will be deemed to have met the requirements for the AI Foundations track.
- AI and Cybersecurity: Explore how AI enhances cybersecurity through threat detection and defence automation. This track supports both foundational learning and mastery of advanced cyber strategies.
- AI and Data Literacy: Develop the analytical foundation essential for leveraging AI. From understanding data fundamentals to deploying machine learning techniques, this track supports informed AI adoption through robust data literacy. Content in this track is highly technical and recommended for students with technical backgrounds.
- AI for Strategic Decision-Making: Learn to harness AI insights for high-impact planning and operational decision-making. Topics include data-informed leadership, scenario planning and risk mitigation through advanced AI architecture.
- AI Workflow Automation: Improve processes, transform workflows and boost efficiency through AI-powered automation. From tool implementation to scaling intelligent process redesign, this track is ideal for professionals driving operational innovation.
- AI Governance and Policy: Understand the frameworks and ethical considerations required for responsible AI adoption. This track prepares learners to develop governance strategies and manage organizational risks in AI-integrated environments.
- AI Integration in Enterprise: Examine how to design and scale AI solutions within existing enterprise systems. From workflow redesign to full-scale integration, learners gain practical tools to lead enterprise-wide AI initiatives. Content in this track is highly technical and recommended for students with technical backgrounds.
- AI Capstone: Apply your learning with a real-world capstone experience, using program knowledge to address practical AI challenges and present strategic AI solutions to industry stakeholders.
Learn more about Learning Pathways and recommended sample pathways for different IT roles.
AI Foundations
| Course name | Format | Next start date | Learn more |
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AI and Cybersecurity
| Course name | Format | Next start date | Learn more |
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AI and Data Literacy
| Course name | Format | Next start date | Learn more |
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AI for Strategic Decision-Making
| Course name | Format | Next start date | Learn more |
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AI Workflow Automation
| Course name | Format | Next start date | Learn more |
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AI Governance and Policy
| Course name | Format | Next start date | Learn more |
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AI Integration in Enterprise
| Course name | Format | Next start date | Learn more |
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AI Capstone
How we deliver this program
This 100% online part-time program consists of instructor-supported real-time classes combined with independent study.
Each micro-course will consist of at least one virtual class taught by subject matter experts, along with ample opportunities for personal engagement and interactivity. All sessions are recorded in case you miss one. Outside of class, you can access online materials on your own time.
Expected effort
Expect to spend approximately 12–14 hours per micro-course completing all learning activities, including attending real-time sessions online.
Assessment
You are assessed on each course according to UBC assessment guidelines to ensure successful acquisition of required skills and concepts.
To earn your certificate, you must achieve an overall average of 70% across 13 micro-courses, including successful completion of an AI Capstone micro-course.
What you receive
Learners receive a digital badge for each completed with a grade of 70% or higher.
After successfully completing at least 12 micro-courses, plus an AI Capstone, you will receive a digital badge for the UBC Certificate in AI Skills Accelerator for IT, Digital and Enterprise System Professionals.
Meet your instructors
The curriculum has been developed and will be taught by a multidisciplinary team with expertise in AI, cybersecurity, cloud infrastructure and digital transformation.
- Ricardo Trujeque, BCom, MSM, is an entrepreneur and educator whose 20-year career intersects technology, communications and education. He has co-founded several software-as-a-service (SaaS) companies that span digital media content distribution, marketing automation, language assessment, disaster resilience assessment, and, currently, immersive environments for training and education. Learn more about Ricardo.
- Lawrence McDaniel, BSc is a freelance full-stack web developer and business analyst, as well as an angel investor, entrepreneur and mentor. He has worked as a freelance technology consultant since 1999, and has advised dozens of startups as well as international banks, hedge funds and real estate investment funds. Learn more about Lawrence.
- Travis Czech is an instructor in cybersecurity, software development, ethical hacking and data engineering. In addition to teaching, he is a solutions and security architect and business and technology consultant. Travis is an EC-Council certified ethical hacker and network defender. Learn more about Travis.
- Kelly Shiohira, BA, MA, MSc is a Director of the Global Science of Learning Education Network and a prominent strategist recognized for her work in areas of literacy, connecting education to the world of work, and the use of AI and technology in education. Learn more about Kelly.
Instructors:
Learning pathways
This program is highly customizable, enabling you to select the tracks and micro-courses that best suit your role, interests and career goals. There is no single ‘correct’ pathway to complete the certificate.
The seven core tracks cover a broad range of AI topics. You can choose tracks that emphasize managerial, technical or leadership skills, and tailor your AI learning pathway accordingly. You must complete AI Foundations 1: Concepts and Tools before taking other micro-courses in the program, except for the AI Governance and Policy track. After that, you’re free to choose which tracks to take. Courses within the same track should be taken in order.
Below are some examples of pathways for different roles.
- Managerial pathway: Focus on strategy, governance, data and foundational technical awareness for IT managers, project coordinators, etc.
- Technical pathway: Emphasizes hands-on AI, automation, integration and security for software developers, data engineers, cybersecurity analysts, IT support staff, product managers,etc.
- Senior leadership pathway: Focus on strategies, governance, advanced decision-making and broad AI literacy for CIOs, senior IT leaders, etc.
Review our student handbook for recommended sample pathways for a variety of other roles in IT.
| Sample pathways | Managerial | Technical | Leadership |
|---|---|---|---|
| AI Foundations | 1: Concepts & Tools 2: Business Processes 3: Strategies for Organizations | 1: Concepts & Tools 2: Business Processes | 1: Concepts & Tools 2: Business Processes 3: Strategies for Organizations |
| AI for Strategic Decision Making | 1: Introduction 2: Planning with AI Insights 3: AI Architecture and Risk Management | 1: Introduction 2: Planning with AI Insights 3: AI Architecture and Risk Management | |
| AI and Data Literacy (highly technical) | 1: Foundations 2: Data Analytics and Machine Learning Techniques | ||
| AI Workflow Automation | 2. Workflow Tools | 2: Workflow Tools 3: Advanced Techniques | 2: Workflow Tools 3: Advanced Techniques |
| AI Governance and Policy | 1: Frameworks 2: Ethical Strategies 3: Risk Management Practices | 1: Frameworks | 1: Frameworks 2: Ethical Strategies 3: Risk Management Practices |
| AI Integration in Enterprise (highly technical) | 2: Tools, Workflows and API 3: Scalable and Reliable Systems | ||
| AI and Cybersecurity | 1: Introduction 2: Real-time Threat Detection | 1: Introduction 2: Real-time Threat Detection 3: Advanced Defense Strategies | 1: Introduction 2: Real-time Threat Detection |
| Capstone project | Capstone 2: Applying AI to a Real-World Challenge | Capstone 2: Applying AI to a Real-World Challenge | Capstone 3: Advanced AI Solutions |
StrongerBC future skills grant – pathway options
The UBC Certificate in AI Skills Accelerator for IT, Digital and Enterprise Systems Professionals is eligible for the StrongerBC future skills grant, which is open to most BC residents aged 19 years or older – and covers up to $3,500 for eligible programs at public post-secondary institutions.
This program is designed for IT professionals and requires prior foundational knowledge or practical experience in information technology, digital systems, or related technical fields to participate successfully.
Extended Learning has curated two structured pathways, technical and managerial, for learners to choose from, based on their professional roles and goals. The technical pathway is highly technical and recommended for students with technical backgrounds. Each pathway requires completion of 12 micro-courses, plus an AI Capstone micro-course to qualify for the StrongerBC future skills grant. Students applying the grant toward this UBC Certificate program must complete all the specified courses within their selected pathway.
Upon successful completion of the AI Skills Accelerator program, students will earn a UBC Certificate.
AI Skills Accelerator Technical Pathway
Micro-Course | Course code | Dates | Tuition* |
|---|---|---|---|
0476-006 | Sep 14–Sep 29, 2026 | $350 | |
0506-005 | Oct 13-Oct 27, 2026 | $350 | |
0507-003 | Nov 23-Dec 8, 2026 | $350 | |
0521-003 | Jan 4-Jan 19, 2027 | $350 | |
0522-004 | Jan 18-Feb 2, 2027 | $350 | |
0525-004 | Mar 30-Apr 13, 2027 | $350 | |
0526-004 | Apr 12-Apr 27, 2027 | $350 | |
0511-006 | May 10-25, 2027 | $350 | |
0512-005 | Jun 7-Jun 22, 2027 | $350 | |
0508-006 | Jun 28-July 13, 2027 | $350 | |
0509-005 | Jul 12-27, 2027 | $350 | |
0510-005 | Aug 3-Aug 17, 2027 | $350 | |
0527-002 | Aug 30-Sept 14, 2027 | $350 | |
|
| Total | $4,550 |
AI Skills Accelerator Managerial Pathway 1
Micro-Course | Course code | Dates | Tuition* |
|---|---|---|---|
0476-006 | Sep 14-Sep 29, 2026 | $350 | |
0506-005 | Oct 13-Oct 27, 2026 | $350 | |
0507-005 | Nov 1-Nov 17, 2026 | $350 | |
0507-003 | Nov 23-Dec 8, 2026 | $350 | |
0522-004 | Jan 18-Feb 2, 2027 | $350 | |
0523-002 | Feb 15-Mar 2, 2027 | $350 | |
0524-002 | Mar 8-Mar 23, 2027 | $350 | |
0517-004 | Apr 12-Apr 27, 2027 | $350 | |
0518-004 | May 10-25, 2027 | $350 | |
0519-004 | Jun 7-Jun 22, 2027 | $350 | |
0508-006 | Jun 28-July 13, 2027 | $350 | |
0509-005 | Jul 12-27, 2027 | $350 | |
0527-002 | Aug 30-Sept 14, 2027 | $350 | |
|
| Total | $4,550 |
AI Skills Accelerator Managerial Pathway 2
Micro-Course | Course code | Dates | Tuition* |
|---|---|---|---|
0476-007 | Jan 18-Feb 2, 2027 | $350 | |
0506-006 | Feb 15-Mar 2, 2027 | $350 | |
0507-006 | Mar 8-Mar 23, 2027 | $350 | |
0517-004 | Apr 12-Apr 27, 2027 | $350 | |
0518-004 | May 10-25, 2027 | $350 | |
0519-004 | Jun 7-Jun 22, 2027 | $350 | |
0522-005 | July 19-Aug 3, 2027 | $350 | |
0523-003 | Aug3-Aug 17, 2027 | $350 | |
0524-003 | Aug 23-Sept 7, 2027 | $350 | |
0508-007 | Sept 7-Sept 21, 2027 | $350 | |
0509-006 | Oct 4-Oct 19, 2027 | $350 | |
0520-004 | Nov 29-Dec 14, 2027 | $350 | |
0527-003 | Jan 4-Jan 18, 2028 | $350 | |
|
| Total | $4,550 |
*Discounted tuition applies to eligible StrongerBC future skills grant recipients enrolled in the bundled program. Any outstanding tuition, after grant is applied, is due before registration in the program. Early bird or other discounts do not apply to future skills grant.
Applications for this program are now open in the StrongerBC future skills grant Management System.
Contact us for information about group rates for your organization.
StrongerBC future skills grant
This program is eligible for StrongerBC future skills grant, which is open to most BC residents aged 19 years or older – and covers up to $3,500 for eligible programs at public post-secondary institutions.
The StrongerBC future skills grant Management System is now accepting grant applications for this program.
These micro-courses are a superb primer for people looking to get an introduction to AI from a business context. I find the mix of video, reading and live sessions compelling and interesting. I love how the Foundations courses build on the lessons learned in the previous ones.
AI Foundations student
Student Handbook
Before registering for this program, be sure to carefully review the student handbook.
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