AI in Business

Graduate Certificate in Artificial Intelligence (AI) in Business

This program is currently under review at the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities.

The Graduate Certificate in AI in Business is a part-time evening program built for working professionals who want to lead in the next era of business. As AI disrupts industries, employers need team members who can apply AI strategically and drive innovation. This certificate is designed for people who want to stay competitive, create immediate value at work, and build new in-demand skills and AI fluency.

The program prepares students to evaluate emerging technologies in in product management, operations, marketing, and business strategy, while building collaboration and leadership acumen. Each class reflects the latest developments in AI, ensuring students gain relevant, forward-looking skills that evolve alongside the technology. Students apply what they learn in class the next day at work, gaining a meaningful professional advantage.

At the Foster School of Business, students are deeply connected to Seattle’s tech and business ecosystem and to the University of Washington’s powerful alumni network. Students become part of the Foster School’s community, building relationships with classmates, faculty, alumni, and business leaders across the Pacific Northwest and beyond.

What will you learn?

Graduates of the AI in Business certificate will gain the confidence and practical expertise to navigate AI’s growing impact across industries and drive meaningful business value within their organizations. Combining business fundamentals with emerging AI applications, the program prepares students to think strategically, lead AI initiatives, and translate AI capabilities into real-world outcomes.

Students will learn to:

• Apply core AI and machine learning concepts—including generative AI and agentic systems—to evaluate AI tools and their business relevance.
• Identify and assess opportunities for AI to improve business processes, products, and organizational performance while weighing costs, risks, and trade-offs.
• Evaluate AI initiatives using business, financial, ethical, and regulatory considerations, including data governance and responsible AI practices.
• Develop AI strategies that prioritize high-value use cases, implementation planning, governance, and resource alignment.
• Lead cross-functional AI adoption efforts by balancing technical feasibility, business priorities, and stakeholder communication.

Program Format and Schedule

Duration: 9 months (Autumn, Winter, Spring quarters)
Format: Part-time, evening program for working professionals
Cost: $1,200 per credit + student fees (approximately $380)
Location: In-person at the University of Washington Foster School of Business in Seattle (Paccar Hall and Founders Hall)
Credits: Minimum 16 credits

Program Structure

The program follows a structured progression:

Stackable Learning Pathways

Pending University approval, the Graduate Certificate in AI in Business is expected to become stackable toward several new master’s degrees currently in development at the Foster School of Business. This allows students to build specialized AI and business expertise now while potentially applying completed coursework toward future graduate study opportunities at Foster.

More certificates coming soon pending UW approval.

Curriculum Overview

Admissions

Candidates are evaluated holistically based on academic preparation, professional experience, career goals, and their ability to contribute to a diverse and collaborative learning environment. The program admits one cohort each year, creating a close-knit learning experience and valuable professional connections across industries.

The University of Washington application for graduate admission for Autumn 2026 will open in August 2026. Sign up here to be notified when applications become available.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution, with a minimum 3.0 GPA

Note: Undergraduate coursework or work experience in data literacy/analysis/analytics, statistics, or related quantitative fields, is strongly recommended but not required. Programming experience is not required for admission.

Application Materials

• Completed application form and fee
• Unofficial transcripts from all post-secondary institutions attended
• Current resume or CV
• Personal statement (500 words or less): Why are you interested in this program and how will it help achieve your professional goals?
• For non-native English speakers: proof of English proficiency per Graduate School Policy 3.2 (TOEFL minimum total score of 92, academic IELTS minimum 7.0, or Duolingo minimum 125)

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