Best edX AI Courses and Certifications in 2024 (FREE and Paid)

The artificial intelligence boom of 2022 has drastically changed the digital world and how people interact with it. It would be an understatement to say that artificial intelligence is currently the most significant technological advancement.

Hundreds and thousands of AI platforms and models have flooded the tech world since then. From social media to healthcare, they are everywhere. There are AI programs that assist you with everyday tasks, on the other hand, there are some AI tools that can even detect different kinds of cancer. 

With this, it is now crucial to understand AI, and learn how it works, its use cases as well as limitations. 

Luckily, even if you are a novice, there are several ways you can learn about AI. One option is to read books. However, there is a slight chance that they will contain outdated content since AI develops every day. 

Another way to learn is by taking online courses. 

The Internet offers a variety of AI courses and certifications. The courses offered by top companies and schools, cover everything from the fundamentals of artificial intelligence to more advanced topics like reinforcement learning, computer vision, and neural networks.

edX is one of the top learning platforms available on the internet. It offers a wide range of AI courses for both beginners and advanced learners. Some of these courses are free; others demand a nominal fee.

In this article, we will look at some of the top edX AI courses and certifications in 2024.

TOP edX AI COURSES [2024]

Course Name	Offered by	Duration	Level	Key Topics	Course Link
Build Gen AI Skills Employers Need	IBM + edX	4 months	Beginner	Fundamentals of Generative AI Tools, AI platforms, ChatGPT, IBM Watsonx, Hugging Face, Ethical use of Gen AI	Build Gen AI Skills
MIT Sloan School of Management: Artificial Intelligence: Implications for Business Strategy	MIT + edX	6 weeks	Advanced	Artificial Intelligence in Business and Society, Machine Learning in Business, Robotics, Natural Language Processing,	AI: Implications for Business Strategy
Computer Science for Artificial Intelligence	Harvard University	5 months	Intermediate	Graph search algorithms, Reinforcement learning, Machine learning, Artificial intelligence principles, Python	Computer Science for AI
Fundamentals of Google AI for Web Based Machine Learning	Google	3 months	Beginner	Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, TensorFlow.js, Linear Regression, Convolutional Neural Network, Python	Fundamentals of Google AI
Oxford Saïd: Oxford Artificial Intelligence Programme	Oxford University	6 weeks	Beginner	Artificial intelligence ecosystem, AI and Machine Learning, Deep Learning, Neural Networks, Ethics of AI	Oxford AI Programme
The University of Texas at Austin Master of Science in Artificial Intelligence (MSAI) online	University of Texas	2 years (Expected)	Intermediate	Online Learning and Optimization, Automated Logical Reasoning, Natural Language Processing, Deep Learning, Machine Learning, Reinforcement Learning	MS in AI
Columbia Engineering online Artificial Intelligence (AI) program	Columbia University	18 months	Intermediate	AI and Business for AI, Algorithms and Machine Learning, Neural Networks and Deep Learning, Natural Language Processing and Speech, Computer Vision and Robotics	Columbia University Online AI Program

1. Build Gen AI Skills Employers Need

What We Like

• No prior tech or AI experience is required.
• Teaches in-demand generative AI skills that employers seek.
• Hands-on experience with popular AI tools like ChatGPT, IBM Watsonx, and Hugging Face.
• Covers ethical considerations, which are crucial for responsible AI use.

What We Don’t Like

• The course may feel basic for those with prior AI knowledge.
• The price may be high for some learners.
• Focuses mainly on IBM platforms, which might limit exposure to other tools.

About This Course: The purpose of this Professional Certificate is to equip with the fundamental generative AI abilities that employers are now asking for. It thoroughly covers the tools and models related to generative AI, including hands-on experience with platforms like ChatGPT and IBM watsonx. It also includes lessons on ethical aspects required in correct use of AI such as copyright issues. The certificate is spread across five courses and can be completed at your preferred pace.

COURSE DETAILS

Provider	edX
Duration	4 months
Level	Beginner
Description	“During this program, you’ll develop a comprehensive understanding of the fundamental concepts, tools, applications, and ethical implications of gen AI and build gen AI skills you can use in your job straight away.”
Key Topics	Fundamentals of Generative AI Tools, AI platforms, ChatGPT, IBM Watsonx, Hugging Face, Ethical use of Gen AI

2. MIT Sloan School of Management: Artificial Intelligence: Implications for Business Strategy

What We Like

• Designed specifically for managers, executives, and business leaders, not just tech professionals.
• Focuses on practical AI applications in business strategy, enhancing decision-making skills.
• Provides a roadmap for implementing AI and ML in your organization.
• Includes modules on robotics, natural language processing, and machine learning, covering a broad range of AI technologies.
• Counts toward an MIT Sloan Executive Certificate.

What We Don’t Like

• Requires commitment to multiple modules, which might be time-intensive for busy professionals.
• Cost may be prohibitive for some participants.

About This Course: This short course is designed to help managers, executives, and business leaders who want to learn how AI can be included in their business strategies. Rather than technical complexities, the course focuses on the strategic implications of AI. You will get to learn about different AI technologies like robotics, natural language processing (NLP), machine learning, and how they can be used to improve business activities. With this program, you can learn to gauge the effects of AI on your organization, devise a plan for its implementation and communicate these insights well within your team. 

COURSE DETAILS

Provider	MIT Sloan School of Management + edX
Duration	6 weeks
Level	Advanced
Description	“The Artificial Intelligence: Implications for Business Strategy online short course from the MIT Sloan School of Management will show you how to capitalize on the value automation offers.”
Key Topics	Artificial Intelligence in Business and Society, Machine Learning in Business, Robotics, Natural Language Processing

3. Computer Science for Artificial Intelligence

What We Like

• Combines foundational computer science education with a focus on AI.
• Offers hands-on projects and practical experience in AI and machine learning.
• Teaches AI implementation in Python.
• Features instruction from renowned Harvard professors and experts.

What We Don’t Like

• Requires a significant time commitment over five months.
• The cost is relatively high.
• The course content may be intense for beginners with no prior programming experience.

About This Course: This course by Harvard University covers in depth the basics of both computer science and artificial intelligence. By taking this course, you will learn about the principles of AI and machine learning. Also, you will gain the skills to implement these concepts in real-life using Python. The course offers a series of hands-on projects on key topics like graph search algorithms, reinforcement learning, and optimization. 

COURSE DETAILS

Provider	Harvard University + edX
Duration	5 months
Level	Intermediate
Description	“This professional certificate series combines CS50’s legendary Introduction to Computer Science course with a new program that takes a deep dive into the concepts and algorithms at the foundation of modern artificial intelligence.”
Key Topics	Graph search algorithms, Reinforcement learning, Machine learning, Artificial intelligence principles, Python

4. Fundamentals of Google AI for Web-Based Machine Learning

What We Like

• Provides a clear understanding of AI, machine learning, and deep learning, clarifying how they interconnect.
• Focuses on practical applications of AI, particularly in web development using TensorFlow.js.
• Teaches both consumption of pre-made models and creation of custom models from scratch.
• Includes instructions on converting Python models to TensorFlow.js for client-side use in web browsers.
• Suitable for web developers interested in integrating AI into their projects.

What We Don’t Like

• The certificate price is high.
• The focus on JavaScript and TensorFlow.js may be limiting for those looking to work in other programming environments.
• Might require some prior knowledge of programming, particularly JavaScript, which could be challenging for complete beginners.

About This Course: This is a great introductory course covering artificial intelligence, machine learning, and their practical applications in web development. Designed by tech giant Google, the course explores the connection between AI, ML and deep learning, with a particular focus on using TensorFlow.js, a popular JavaScript library. By taking this course, you will learn how to leveraging pre-existing machine learning models as well as creating custom ones such as Linear Regression and Convolutional Neural Networks. Also, you will learn how to convert Python models into TensorFlow.js format for client-side use in web browsers. 

COURSE DETAILS

Provider	Google + edX
Duration	3 months
Level	Intermediate
Description	“This program introduces you into this exciting and disruptive technology (AI and ML) and arms you with applied AI skills.”
Key Topics	Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, TensorFlow.js, Linear Regression, Convolutional Neural Network, Python

5. Oxford Saïd: Oxford Artificial Intelligence Programme

What We Like:

• Offers a clear understanding of AI without requiring technical skills.
• Taught by University of Oxford faculty.
• Flexible online learning over six weeks, suitable for working professionals.
• Focuses on practical applications and ethical considerations of AI.

What We Don’t Like:

• The program is non-technical.
• Has limited interaction due to the online format.

About This Course: The beginner-friendly course by Oxford University covers AI and its practical applications in business and society. It is designed for managers and business leaders, and covers the AI ecosystem, machine learning, deep learning, and the ethical challenges of AI. Over six weeks, you will develop a foundational understanding of AI, guided by University of Oxford faculty. The best part about this course is that it is non-technical, and can be taken even if you do not have any coding experience. 

COURSE DETAILS

Provider	Oxford University + edX
Duration	6 weeks
Level	Beginner
Description	“The Oxford Artificial Intelligence Programme aims to provide you with a sound framework of this technology: from its history, functionality, and capability, as well as its inherent ethical challenges.”
Key Topics	Artificial intelligence ecosystem, AI and Machine Learning, Deep Learning, Neural Networks, Ethics of AI

6. The University of Texas at Austin Master of Science in Artificial Intelligence (MSAI) online

What We Like:

• Affordable tuition with a competitive program cost.
• Flexible online format is suitable for working professionals.
• Comprehensive curriculum covering deep learning, computer vision, and natural language processing.
• Emphasis on ethics in AI and multidisciplinary applications in fields like healthcare and urban planning.
• Degree from a top-ranked university with strong research credentials.

What We Don’t Like:

• Additional costs for books and course materials are not included in the tuition.
• Potential annual tuition increases.
• No in-person interaction, which might affect networking opportunities.

About This Course: This online program offered by the University of Texas offers a flexible and affordable path to advancement in the AI field. The 30-credit syllabus has one required course about ethics in AI, along with nine electives covering areas like deep learning, natural language processing, and optimization. It is designed for AI enthusiasts who work and want to improve technical knowledge as well as career opportunities. The course merges strict academic teaching with practical applications in different industries. 

COURSE DETAILS

Provider	University of Texas
Duration	2 years (Expected)
Level	Intermediate
Description	“The University of Texas at Austin designed its high-quality online MSAI for learners ready to optimize the intuitive technology that impacts our everyday lives.”
Key Topics	Online Learning and Optimization, Automated Logical Reasoning, Natural Language Processing, Deep Learning, Machine Learning, Reinforcement Learning

7. Columbia Engineering online Artificial Intelligence (AI) program

What We Like:

• Offers a comprehensive curriculum with six core courses covering essential AI topics.
• Taught by leading AI experts from a prestigious Ivy League institution.
• Provides practical knowledge applicable to real-world business contexts.

What We Don’t Like:

• High tuition fee of $22,000.
• Requires prior programming experience, which might exclude beginners.
• No degree or credit awarded, which may limit its value for some career goals.
• In-person immersion is mandatory, which could be inconvenient for those unable to travel.

About This Course: This program by Columbia University is an executive education course designed for professionals seeking to build AI-powered systems, products, and services. Tt involves a self-paced bridge course, six core courses and mandatory three days of on-campus immersion in New York City. The subjects taught are fundamental topics of AI such as machine learning, neural networks, natural language processing and computer vision. This program, which brings together practical use and insights from top AI professionals, will provide you with the necessary abilities to push AI innovation within your  organizations. 

COURSE DETAILS

Provider	Columbia University
Duration	18 months
Level	Intermediate
Description	“Learn how to build artificial intelligence-powered systems, products, and services in this non-credit, non-degree executive education program.”
Key Topics	AI and Business for AI, Algorithms and Machine Learning, Neural Networks and Deep Learning, Natural Language Processing and Speech, Computer Vision and Robotics

The Bottom Line

The courses we have covered above are some of the top ones offered by tech giants and Ivy League Schools. They are available on edX and can be taken by anyone, regardless of their background or location. These courses provide valuable knowledge and skills in the field of artificial intelligence, making them a great option for those looking to advance their careers in this rapidly growing industry.