AI for Professional Practice (Certificate)
The AI for Professional Practice certificate allows students to earn a stand‑alone credential while building practical knowledge of AI concepts and tools used in professional settings.
- Degrees & Offerings
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- Certificate
- Location
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- Online
- Department
- College
- Program Contact
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MSIDT Program Coordinator, Associate Professor
Program Overview
- Career‑Focused Skills: Students learn how to apply AI tools in real workplace scenarios — including business, education, communications, and administrative settings — making the certificate valuable across industries.
- Flexible Online Format: 100% online delivery supports working professionals and students with busy schedules.
- No Technical Background Required: The program is designed for students from any major or profession who want to use AI effectively, not build or code AI systems.
- Ethical & Responsible AI Use: A strong emphasis on understanding the risks, limitations, and responsible use of AI in professional environments.
- Hands‑On Practice: Students work directly with widely used AI tools and emerging systems to build confidence and practical experience.
- Stackable Credential: The certificate can complement a degree or enhance a professional résumé as a standalone credential.
Courses and Curriculum
AI Fuels Growth in Learning & Development
AI is increasing (not replacing) the need for learning and development professionals. According to Cisco's 2025 AI Workforce Consortium Report, Learning & Development Specialist is ranked as the #1 specialized supporting role needed to support AI adoption in both the United States and Canada. The report highlights that organizations are investing in L&D professionals to help employees develop AI-related skills, adapt to new technologies, and foster continuous learning as AI transforms the workplace. (https://www.cisco.com/site/m/ai-workforce-consortium/index.html)
Careers
The AI Professional Practice Certificate gives students practical, real‑world skills to use AI confidently in any career. It focuses on everyday AI tools, effective prompting, and ethical use — preparing graduates for a wide range of AI‑supported roles across industries. Example roles may include:
Potential Job Opportunities
- AI‑Enhanced Business Analyst
- AI‑Supported Marketing Specialist
- Instructional Designer
- AI Tools Coordinator
- Operations or Workflow Automation Assistant
- Content Creator or Communications Assistant
Commonwealth University Launches AI for Professional Practice Certificate
Commonwealth University has launched a new AI for Professional Practice Certificate, a program designed to equip students and working professionals with the essential skills to leverage generative artificial intelligence effectively across diverse industries.
Gaining an AI Advantage
Artificial intelligence is no longer a distant concept reserved for tech specialists. It’s rapidly becoming a foundational skill across industries. As a result, Commonwealth University is shaping the evolution of its M.S. in Instructional Design and Technology program in ways that are both intentional and forward-thinking. For Karl Kapp, professor and director of CU’s Institute for Interactive Technologies, the shift toward integrating AI into the graduate curriculum didn’t begin as a trend to follow but as a response to a clear signal from the field.
Harnessing AI in Instructional Design
Artificial Intelligence is transforming the field of instructional design and technology. From accelerating content creation and generating custom graphics to deploying AI avatars as virtual instructors, the possibilities are expanding rapidly. Commonwealth University is at the forefront of adapting to this technological revolution, designing curricula that prepare the next generation of learning professionals to navigate and leverage AI effectively.
Program Faculty
Jessica Briskin
- MSIDT Program Coordinator, Associate Professor
- Bloomsburg
Karl M. Kapp
- Professor of Instructional Design and Technology
- Bloomsburg
Applying to This Program
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Application Process
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Scholarships
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