6 Best Online Courses for Learning AI: A Practical Guide
Written by  Daisie Team
Published on 8 min read

Contents

  1. Introduction to Artificial Intelligence by Udacity
  2. AI For Everyone by Coursera
  3. AI Programming with Python by Udacity
  4. Advanced AI: Deep Reinforcement Learning in Python by Udemy
  5. Artificial Intelligence by Harvard University
  6. AI MicroMasters Program by Columbia University

Are you excited to dive into the world of Artificial Intelligence (AI)? It's hard not to be, especially with the promise of AI transforming the world around us. The question is, where do you start? Luckily, there are some fantastic courses available online that can help you get started. In this guide, we've narrowed down the selection to the 6 best online courses for learning AI. You don't need to search around anymore; we've done the legwork for you. Now, let's jump into our first pick: Introduction to Artificial Intelligence by Udacity.

Introduction to Artificial Intelligence by Udacity

Udacity's Introduction to Artificial Intelligence is a top choice among the best online courses for learning AI. With its hands-on approach, you'll learn the basics of AI in a practical way.

Why This Course?

  • Highly interactive: Unlike some online courses where you just watch videos, this course encourages you to get your hands dirty with projects. You'll build simple AI systems, giving you a real taste of what it's like to work in AI.
  • Expert instructors: The course is taught by two industry experts, Sebastian Thrun and Peter Norvig. They bring their vast experience in AI to guide you through the course.
  • Flexible learning: You can learn at your own pace. So, whether you're a full-time student or a working professional, you can fit this course into your schedule.

What Will You Learn?

In this course, you'll learn about the basics of AI. This includes:

  1. AI concepts: You'll learn about the fundamentals of AI, such as machine learning, robotics, and natural language processing.
  2. Problem-solving methods: You'll understand how to use algorithms and data structures to solve AI problems.
  3. Real-world applications: You'll see how AI can be used in various fields, like healthcare, finance, and entertainment.

Who is This Course For?

This course is perfect for beginners. If you're interested in AI but don't know where to start, this course is for you. You don't need any prior programming knowledge or AI experience to take this course. All you need is curiosity and a willingness to learn.

So, if you're ready to take your first step into the world of AI, Udacity's Introduction to Artificial Intelligence is a great place to start. It's one of the best online courses for learning AI, and it's just the beginning of your AI journey.

AI For Everyone by Coursera

Next on our list of the best online courses for learning AI is "AI For Everyone" offered by Coursera. This course is a unique opportunity for everyone—regardless of technical skills—to understand AI, its applications, and how it will impact our lives.

Why This Course?

  • Non-technical approach: Don’t worry if you're not a tech wizard. This course is designed with non-technical people in mind. It breaks down complex AI concepts into digestible, easy-to-understand content.
  • Renowned instructor: Andrew Ng, a co-founder of Coursera and an Adjunct Professor at Stanford University, leads this course. His expertise and engaging teaching style make learning about AI a breeze.
  • Real-world examples: The course connects AI theories with real-world applications, helping you understand how AI impacts various industries and our daily lives.

What Will You Learn?

The course covers a wide range of topics to give you a well-rounded understanding of AI. You'll learn:

  1. AI terminology: You'll get familiar with essential AI jargon, like machine learning, data science, deep learning, and more.
  2. Role of AI: You'll understand where AI fits into our society and how it's driving transformation in various sectors.
  3. AI strategy: You'll discover how businesses are leveraging AI and how you can develop an AI strategy for your organization.

Who is This Course For?

No matter who you are—a business leader, a marketer, a student, or just an AI enthusiast—this course is for you. If you're seeking to understand AI without diving into the technical details, "AI For Everyone" is a perfect match.

In short, "AI For Everyone" is a must-have in your learning journey, especially if you're looking to grasp the big picture of AI. It's indeed one of the best online courses for learning AI, particularly for non-technical individuals.

AI Programming with Python by Udacity

If you're someone who likes to get hands-on and dig deep into the mechanics of AI, Udacity's "AI Programming with Python" is the course for you. It's one of the best online courses for learning AI programming, giving you a solid understanding of both AI and Python—one of the most used languages in the field.

Why Opt for This Course?

  • Learn Python from scratch: Even if you've never written a line of code in your life, this course has got you covered. It starts with the absolute basics and gradually builds up your Python skills.
  • Practical approach: This course is all about learning by doing. You'll be working on projects and writing real code, not just listening to lectures.
  • AI foundations: Besides Python, you'll also learn about foundational AI concepts and how to use them in your programming.

What's on the Syllabus?

This course is designed to arm you with practical skills. Here's what you can expect to learn:

  1. Python basics: You'll start with learning how to set up a Python development environment and then move onto Python fundamentals like variables, loops, and functions.
  2. Data structures and algorithms: You'll learn about important data structures like lists, dictionaries, and sets. You'll also get an introduction to algorithms, which are a key part of AI programming.
  3. AI concepts: You'll explore fundamental AI concepts such as machine learning and neural networks, and how to implement them using Python.

Is This Course Right For You?

If you're interested in the technical side of AI and want to learn how to program, then this course is an excellent choice. It's particularly helpful if you're a beginner to programming or new to Python. The course is also a good fit if you're a developer looking to expand your skills into AI.

To sum up, "AI Programming with Python" by Udacity is a practical, hands-on course that's great for those looking to dive into the coding aspect of AI. It's not just one of the best online courses for learning AI—it's a stepping stone to a whole new world of possibilities.

Advanced AI: Deep Reinforcement Learning in Python by Udemy

Craving for a deeper dive into AI? Want to explore the fascinating world of deep reinforcement learning? Udemy's "Advanced AI: Deep Reinforcement Learning in Python" is an ideal pick. This course takes your AI knowledge a notch higher, making it one of the best online courses for learning AI concepts at an advanced level.

What Makes This Course Stand Out?

  • Advanced AI Learning: This course is all about taking you beyond the basics. You'll learn sophisticated AI methods, particularly deep reinforcement learning.
  • Practical Python Coding: The course uses Python to help you understand and implement deep reinforcement learning algorithms.
  • Flexible Learning: Udemy's format allows you to learn at your own pace, making it easy to fit into your schedule.

What Will You Learn?

As an advanced course, you'll delve into some exciting topics:

  1. Deep Learning Fundamentals: You'll start with a deep dive (pun intended!) into the fundamentals of deep learning, setting the stage for later topics.
  2. Reinforcement Learning: You'll learn about reinforcement learning, a key AI concept where software agents learn how to behave in an environment to maximize some notion of cumulative reward.
  3. Practical Application: Finally, you'll apply your knowledge to real-world problems, helping to cement what you've learned.

Who Should Take This Course?

If you've got the basics of AI and Python under your belt and are ready to take your skills to the next level, this course is for you. It's designed for those who are ready to dive into more complex AI concepts and apply them in a practical manner.

In conclusion, Udemy's "Advanced AI: Deep Reinforcement Learning in Python" is a top-tier choice for advanced AI learning. As far as best online courses for learning AI go, this one is a gem for those willing to challenge themselves and delve deeper into the world of AI.

Artificial Intelligence by Harvard University

Next up on our list of the best online courses for learning AI is the "Artificial Intelligence" course offered by none other than Harvard University. This course is a remarkable offering, providing a solid foundation in AI for those who are ready to explore this field's fascinating depths.

Why Choose This Course?

  • World-Class Education: You get to learn from a reputable institution, Harvard University. The quality of education and the resources available are top-notch.
  • Well-rounded AI Knowledge: The course strikes a balance between theory and practice, ensuring you grasp the concepts while getting your hands dirty with practical applications.
  • Accessible Learning: Harvard brings the classroom to you through this online course, offering flexibility and convenience to suit your individual learning style.

What's on The Syllabus?

This course's curriculum is designed to provide a thorough understanding of AI. Here's what you'll cover:

  1. AI Principles: First, you will fortify your understanding of AI's foundational principles, providing a strong base for more complex topics.
  2. Machine Learning: Next, you will be introduced to machine learning, one of the most significant subsets of AI.
  3. Real-world AI Applications: Lastly, you will explore real-world AI applications, demonstrating the technology's practical uses and potential impact.

Who is this Course For?

Whether you're a novice in the AI world or an intermediate learner looking to solidify your knowledge, this course is a great fit. It offers comprehensive education from a world-renowned institution, making it an excellent choice among the best online courses for learning AI.

So, if you're ready to learn AI from one of the world's leading universities, Harvard's "Artificial Intelligence" course is waiting for you. With its well-rounded curriculum and flexible learning platform, it's a standout choice in the realm of AI education.

AI MicroMasters Program by Columbia University

Let's move on to another impressive option in our list of best online courses for learning AI. Columbia University's AI MicroMasters Program is a comprehensive online course that could be your next step on the path to AI mastery.

What Makes this Program Special?

  • Deep Dive into AI: This course goes beyond surface-level understanding. It plunges into the complexities of AI, providing a deep understanding of the subject.
  • Hands-on Projects: The program emphasizes practical learning. You will work on projects that mimic real-world challenges, giving you valuable hands-on experience.
  • From a Renowned University: Columbia University is well-known for its strong academics. This course reflects the university's commitment to quality education.

What Will You Learn?

The MicroMasters program covers a broad spectrum of AI topics. Here's what you can expect:

  1. AI Algorithms: The course starts by diving into AI algorithms. You'll learn the nuts and bolts of how AI systems function.
  2. Data Science Techniques: Next, you'll explore data science techniques, a critical component of effective AI development.
  3. AI Implementation: Finally, you'll learn how to implement AI solutions in real-world scenarios, a vital skill for any aspiring AI professional.

Is this Program for You?

This program is ideal for those who are aiming for a career in AI and want a thorough, practical understanding of the field. If you're serious about AI and ready to invest your time and effort, Columbia University's AI MicroMasters Program could be your perfect match among the best online courses for learning AI.

So, are you prepared to take a deep dive into the world of AI and emerge as a skilled professional? If so, Columbia University's AI MicroMasters Program is an opportunity you don't want to miss.

If you're excited about the potential of AI in the creative world after exploring the best online courses for learning AI, we highly recommend checking out the workshop 'The Insane Potential of AI-Generated Art and Design' by Aunia Kahn. In this workshop, you'll discover how AI can revolutionize the way we create art and design, opening up new possibilities for artists and designers alike.