Ìý
Certificate
in Generative
Artificial Intelligence
Next Session Start:
March 9, 2026
- 3 COURSES
- 100% ONLINE
- ENROLLING MONTHLY
- 225 CLOCK HOURS
Build the tools shaping the future of intelligent systems.
The Certificate in Generative Artificial Intelligence (Gen AI) helps professionals move beyond basic, browser-level AI use and into true AI fluency. Throughout this program, you’ll build confidence using AI as a practical tool. No prior technical background is required, and all foundational concepts are taught directly in the first course.
You’ll learn how generative AI systems work, how to write effective prompts and how to build simple, reliable automations that make your work more efficient. You’ll also explore how LLMs create and refine ideas, how APIs enable tools to communicate, and how techniques like retrieval-augmented generation (RAG) help AI produce more accurate, context-aware results.ÌýEach course includes a project that allows you to apply new concepts to an idea or challenge that interests you, strengthening your ability to turn natural language prompts into functional AI-powered tools.
Each course bridges conceptual understanding with technical fluency. By the end of this program, you’ll know how to design lightweight applications, build custom automations, evaluate whether an AI output is trustworthy and integrate AIÌýinto the work you do today and the innovations you'll lead tomorrow.
ENROLLMENT OPTIONS
Certificate Program 3 courses | 6 weeks per course 12.5 hours per week Fast Track |
Ìý |
15% savings |
Single Course Each single course is made up of a Principles asynchronous micro-course and a Practice live virtual micro-course. |
Ìý |
10% savings See courses to enroll. |
BENEFITS BY ENROLLMENT OPTION
- 15% tuition savings
- A mix of asynchronous online coursework and assessments with weekly live virtual class sessions led by faculty
- Increased interaction between you, faculty and peer professionals throughout the course
- Digital Badge upon completion
- Certificate upon program completion
- 10% tuition savings
- A mix of asynchronous online coursework and assessments with weekly live virtual class sessions led by faculty
- Increased interaction between you, faculty and peer professionals throughout the course
- Digital Badge upon completion
GENERATIVE AI CERTIFICATE COURSES
Complete all three required courses to earn the full certificate.
REQUIRED
This course introduces the foundational concepts needed to begin working with generative AI tools, with an emphasis on how large language models (LLMs) process and generate content. Designed for learners from any professional background, students will gain hands-on experience applying simple coding logic and prompts to explore real-world uses of generative AI.
This course enables learners to design and build real-world applications using LLMs and Python. Learners will explore advanced prompting techniques, integrate LLMs using APIs, develop multi-step workflows through prompt chaining, and use retrieval techniques using embeddings and vector search. Emphasizing the idea of vibe coding where LLMs assist with generating, debugging, and iterating on code, this course helps learners build useful tools such as writing assistants, and feedback bots. Furthermore, this course prepares learners for deeper architectural, retrieval-based, and fine-tuning workflows in Course 3. 
Prerequisite: Introduction to Generative AI with Python and LLMs
This course groups the foundational and applied skills from the previous two courses to explore advanced generative AI architectures and multimodal systems. Learners will deepen their understanding of retrieval-augmented generation (RAG), vector databases, and lightweight fine-tuning techniques such as LoRA. The course also introduces image generation on tools and multimodal prompting strategies to help students design creative and personalized applications. Ethical considerations and system safety are incorporated to prepare learners for responsible deployment. 
Prerequisite: Introduction to Generative AI with Python and LLMs and Application Development with LLMs
INTERESTED IN ENROLLING A GROUP?
Group enrollment is available for our professional education programs and provides cost-effective rates for teams. Investing in your workforce through shared training helps build future-ready leaders, strengthens employee engagement and supports your organization’s long-term growth.
PRINCIPLES + PRACTICE LEARNING MODEL
ÌýPrinciples serves as the foundation for each course, providing essential knowledge to help you expand your skill set and deepen your expertise. Through independently paced online coursework, you’ll watch videos and complete weekly assignments on your schedule. This flexible format ensures you can build your expertise at a pace that works for you.
ÌýPractice builds upon Principles through collaboration and real-world application. Weekly, live faculty-led sessions further enhance learning by fostering open dialogue and connecting you with peers across multiple industries. These interactive sessions provide opportunities to discuss workplace challenges, share insights and receive valuable feedback.
WHO SHOULD ENROLL?
This program is designed for professionals in any industryÌýwho are interested in moving beyond merely using AI tools to gain an understanding of how generative AI systems are built and applied. No prior experience with coding or data analysis is required. Learners will be introduced to the essential Python fundamentals needed to complete hands-on exercises and project-based learning activities.
- Professionals from any industry who want to deepen their technical fluency and apply AI to real-world challenges in their field.Ìý
- Analytical and creative professionals such as educators, marketers and healthcare specialists interested in using generative AI to enhance problem-solving, innovation and productivity.
- Technical professionals, including developers, engineers and data scientists, seeking to expand their expertise into generative AI development and integration.
- Career changers and innovators who want to understand how AI technologies work and how to apply them in practical, hands-on ways.
LEARNED SKILLS
- Prompt writing & iterative refinement
- Vibe coding
- Connect tools through API calls
- Automate routine tasks
- Chatbot development
- Build AI-powered applications
- Basic Python for simple AI workflows
- Use RAG for context-aware results
- Design text & image-based multimodal tools
- Tailor models with customization
- Check AI outputs for trustworthiness
- Work with vector searchesÌý
- Integrate AI into everyday life
“ This program is distinctly Â鶹Èë¿Ú, and pairs technical fluency with reflection and purpose, preparing learners to lead responsibly in the era of generative intelligence. ”
- Venkat Margapuri, Â鶹Èë¿Ú Faculty, Generative AI
CREDENTIALS
Earn a digital badge for every completed course. You'll also earn a program certificate and program digital badge upon completion of required courses. Showcase your new skills and gain a competitive edge by adding badges backed by Â鶹Èë¿Ú to your resume, LinkedIn profile or email signature.
THE VILLANOVA DIFFERENCE
The College of Professional Studies has cultivated a distinguished reputation for delivering the hallmark Â鶹Èë¿Ú experience — academically rigorous, top-quality and innovative programs within a supportive community —Ìýto students who are pursuing higher education amidst busy professional and personal lives. As an internationally recognized institution, Â鶹Èë¿Ú is proud of its vibrant community of alumni, faculty, students and staff who are dedicated to driving meaningful impact and transformative change within their communities.
At Â鶹Èë¿Ú, we believe where you've been is just the beginning.ÌýÌý
Pursue the Next You.â„¢
GET IN TOUCH
Ìý610-519-7655
M-Th. 9 am - 7 pm | Fri. 9 am - 5 pm
FUNDING YOUR PROFESSIONAL EDUCATION
EdAssist by Bright Horizons
Â鶹Èë¿Ú has partnered with EdAssist by Bright Horizons to help you take the next step in your education journey. Employees of participating organizations receive 15% in tuition savings and waived application fees on eligible Â鶹Èë¿Ú programs.
Employee Tuition Reimbursement
Many organizations offer tuition reimbursement for professional education programs. Check with your employer to learn about available opportunities. To support your request, you can also reference our library of supervisor request letters.
Military service members and veterans may be eligible for tuition payment/assistance through the Department of Veterans Affairs under the Post-9/11 G.I. Bill® or other benefits.
Resources available to help you navigate your military and veteran benefits:
- Â鶹Èë¿Ú Military Savings: active-duty, veterans and military-connected spouses and dependents are eligible to receive 15% savings per professional education certificate course.
- Military Tuition Assistance
- VA Education Benefits (including GI Bill®)
Please visit the Office of Veterans and Military Service Members' webpage for more information.
Employees of the U.S. government can take advantage of educational savings through Â鶹Èë¿Ú's partnership with the U.S. Office of Personnel Management (OPM) Federal Academic Alliance.Ìý
Â鶹Èë¿Ú supports the continued education and professional development of Boeing's employees. Learn more about education benefits and tuition savings information for Boeing employees.
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Payment plans are offered through Nelnet Campus Commerce and students are encouraged to reach out to Nelnet directly through the .
Please note:
- Payment plans are available for fall, spring and summer.
- Payments must be made over the course of 2-5 months, depending on when you enroll in the plan.
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