By Catherine Waddell 
Artificial intelligence gives machines the ability to learn, perceive, solve problems and perform tasks like humans. The world needs AI much more than we can imagine. Some real-world applications of AI include: facial recognition software, self-driving cars, smart assistants, personalized recommendations, chatbots, etc.
Artificial Intelligence is a rapidly expanding field that seeks to develop new solutions or improve existing products for almost every industry out there. However, there’s a huge skills gap in the AI workforce. If you’re looking to kickstart a career in this exciting field, you should consider getting a certificate in artificial intelligence.
Table of Contents
- 1 Some Statistics on the Demand for AI Professionals
- 2 Different Types of AI and Machine Learning Jobs You Can Pursue
- 3 What Type of Skills Do You Need to Become an AI Professional?
- 4 What Can You Expect to Learn in an AI Certificate Program?
- 5 The Benefits of Taking an Online Artificial Intelligence Certificate Course
Some Statistics on the Demand for AI Professionals
One cannot possibly go wrong with a career in AI and machine learning. There are several roles and responsibilities which you can pick from. Although many companies are still in the early adoption stage, AI jobs are expected to provide stability and survive well into the future.
According to the World Economic Forum, about 97 million roles related to machine learning and AI will be created by 2025. The U.S. bureau of labor statistics also says that computer and information technology occupations are projected to grow 13% from 2020 to 2030.
Different Types of AI and Machine Learning Jobs You Can Pursue
There are lots of industries that need experts in AI and machine learning. You can find work in a variety of settings including: marketing firms, hospitals, and clinics, insurance companies, government and military offices, nonprofits, financial services firms, tech startups, supply chain operations, gaming companies, etc.
Currently, there are a number of specialized roles in AI and machine learning. They include: AI specialist/developer, big data engineer, Natural Language Processing (NLP) specialist, Business Intelligence (BI) developer, database architect, robotics engineer, machine learning engineer, data visualization developer, machine learning researcher, etc.
Due to high demand, companies are offering competitive salaries to skilled AI professionals. According to PayScale, artificial intelligence experts earn about $129,000 yearly. However, the income may depend on the exact role, experience, or your location. For example, a senior data scientist can make $130,983 and a research scientist can earn $145,833 annually.
What Type of Skills Do You Need to Become an AI Professional?
The artificial intelligence industry requires you to have a strong set of skills. You need to know the technical concepts, understand the tools and procedures involved as well as have good analytical and problem-solving skills. Below are the main skills needed for a career in AI.
Programming Languages
AI and machine learning roles require coding skills. You should learn some programming languages like Python, C/C++, TypeScript, R, Java, Scala, MATLAB, etc.
Data Science and Analytics
Machines use data sets to study patterns and learn how to make decisions. AI developers and machine learning engineers should know how to capture, analyze, extract and use data to train AI models and ML algorithms.
Statistics and Probability
Machine learning models and algorithms are based on mathematical principles. You need to
understand the concepts of statistics and probability. They can help to determine the accuracy and validity of your data models.
Communication and Collaboration
Artificial intelligence and machine learning are one of the roles within a project team. You have to work with researchers, designers, software engineers, and much more. So you should be familiar with teamwork and collaboration tools.
What Can You Expect to Learn in an AI Certificate Program?
An artificial intelligence certificate program can help to begin your career in AI. Regardless of your background, you can learn high-demand areas such as machine learning, deep learning, natural language processing, robotics, applied linear algebra, and computer vision.
The ideal AI certificate program should provide a practical and project-based education that you can use to solve real-world problems. You can also expect to learn some programming languages like Python or R. It would also teach emerging trends and technologies in the field.
The Benefits of Taking an Online Artificial Intelligence Certificate Course
An online artificial intelligence certificate program is a fast and effective way to develop AI and machine learning skills. It helps to set your AI foundations properly so you can easily prepare for the opportunities in the field. Here are some benefits of an online AI certificate.
Study in Your Own Time
Online learning provides enough flexibility and convenience for working professionals. You should enroll in an online AI certificate program so you can plan your classes around your daily schedule. All you need to access your coursework is an internet-enabled computer.
Acquire a Qualification in a Short Period
An online AI certificate program needs to focus on the crucial skills required in the field. In just six courses or 18 credits, you will understand the problems, techniques, and opportunities of artificial intelligence and machine learning.
Apply Credit Hours Toward a Degree
After you’ve earned a certificate in artificial intelligence online, you may decide to pursue a bachelor’s degree in computer science later on. The credits from the AI certificate program can be applied toward a future bachelor’s degree.