Business Artificial Intelligence

The NC State Business Artificial Intelligence (AI) Graduate Certificate prepares professionals to lead and assess AI-driven initiatives in real-world business settings. Students will gain hands-on experience with generative AI tools, learn to lead and manage AI adoption across industries, and build the judgment to evaluate the return on investment and social responsibility of AI initiatives. Courses are offered both in-person and online. 

You may be interested in this certificate if you are in your early -to mid career, are looking to change careers, or are a recent graduate. Current Jenkins students and NC State graduate students are also welcome to apply. 

Eligibility

The NC State University Graduate School, which oversees the graduate certificate application process, has its own admissions criteria but the Poole College of Management has specific admissions requirements as well.

Applicants must meet the minimum qualifications to be considered for admission: 

• Bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution (or equivalent), 
• A minimum GPA of 3.0 in relevant undergraduate or graduate courses (exceptions available for graduate-level work), and
• Two years of full-time, post-baccalaureate professional experience.
• For international applications, the TOEFL or IELTS is required unless eligible for a waiver. 

Plan of Study

The Business AI Graduate Certificate requires a total of 12 credit hours consisting of one required course and three elective courses. A grade of B- or better (3.0 GPA) must be maintained for certificate courses. No transfer credits or course substitutions are allowed and all coursework must be completed within four years. This certificate is stackable and can be applied to Poole College's master’s degree business programs.

Career Prospects

Artificial Intelligence is reshaping every facet of business, from marketing and operations to customer experience and executive strategy. As companies race to integrate AI into their core functions, professionals who understand how to apply AI tools in real business settings are in high demand. Graduates of this certificate program are prepared to step into high-impact roles such as AI engineers, AI consultants, and AI/machine learning analysts. The Business AI Graduate Certificate equips its graduates with both the technical proficiency and strategic insight required for these ever-evolving roles. 

For those already working in tech, data, or business roles, this certificate unlocks new avenues for advancement into positions like IT project manager, product owner, or programmer analyst. These roles are increasingly expected to evaluate AI feasibility, manage AI initiatives, and interpret AI-driven insights. The curriculum’s blend of machine learning applications, business analytics, and ethical AI use ensures that graduates can confidently lead and implement cutting-edge solutions.

Startups and innovation-driven organizations are also eager for talent with both business acumen and AI fluency. Whether you're launching your own venture or joining a fast-moving team, the Business AI Graduate Certificate equips you with tools to evaluate ROI, navigate risk, and design responsible AI-driven strategies. The program’s emphasis on practical implementation prepares graduates to transform operations, build AI-enhanced products, and drive innovation in emerging and established markets alike.