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, progressing through micro-courses organized into 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 a capstone project, designed to be completed within 12 to 18 months
- Cost: $475 per micro-course, $1,125 for a three micro-course bundle
- Start date: AI Foundations 1 starts October 2025
Like the Web revolution, the AI era will reshape rather than eliminate IT jobs. Those who adapt will lead the next era of IT.
Larry Bouthillier, Extended Learning, Executive Director, speaking at BCNet Connect 2025
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 or register for three at once for $1,125. The total program cost is $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 a capstone project, 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 are designed to be taken in sequence as each one builds on the 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.
- AI Foundations 1: Concepts and Tools
- AI Foundations 2: Business Processes
- AI Foundations 3: Strategies for Organizations
Note: We recommend the completion of AI Foundations 1: Concepts and Tools or equivalent foundational AI knowledge before taking other micro-courses in this program. Students who have previously completed the UBC Extended Learning Micro-certificate in Artificial Intelligence Cloud Solutions Strategy will have fulfilled 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 Cybersecurity 1: Introduction
- AI and Cybersecurity 2: Real-Time Threat Detection
- AI and Cybersecurity 3: Advanced Defence 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 and Data Literacy 1: Foundations
- AI and Data Literacy 2: Data Analytics and Machine Learning Techniques
- 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 for Strategic Decision Making 1: Introduction
- AI for Strategic Decision Making 2: Planning with AI Insights
- AI for Strategic Decision Making 3: AI Architecture and Risk Management
- 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 Workflow Automation 2: Workflow Tools
- AI Workflow Automation 3: Advanced Techniques
- 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 Governance and Policy 1: Frameworks
- AI Governance and Policy 2: Ethical Strategies
- AI Governance and Policy 3: Risk Management Practices
- 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 Integration in Enterprise 2: Tools, Workflows and API
- AI Integration in Enterprise 3: Scalable and Reliable Systems
- 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.
- AI Capstone 2: Applying AI to Real-World Challenges
- AI Capstone 3: Advanced AI Solutions
See the Learning Pathways section below or review our student handbook for recommended sample pathways for different roles in IT.
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 successfully complete at least 12 micro-courses, including the Capstone.
What you receive
Learners receive a digital badge for each completed micro-course.
After successfully completing at least 12 micro-courses, including the 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 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 wide range of AI topics. You can choose from tracks that emphasize managerial, technical or leadership skills, and customize your AI learning pathway accordingly. You must complete the AI Foundations track before taking other micro-courses in the program but, after that, you’re free to choose which tracks to take and in what 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 |
Contact us for information about group rates for your organization.
Student Handbook
Before registering for this program, be sure to carefully review the student handbook.
How can we help?
We’re here to answer your questions, discuss learning options and provide insights, recommendations and referrals.