Online AI for Business Certificate
Build AI Skills for Business Transformation
The AI for Business Certificate from Minnesota Carlson will help you gain essential skills in generative AI, analytics, programming, and other important aspects of data science in as few as 12 months over three semesters. This 100% online graduate certificate is designed for working professionals. In addition, all credits earned in this program can be applied toward the Minnesota Carlson Part-Time MBA, Online MBA, or Online Master of Applied Business Analytics.
Associated Degrees
Online AI for Business Certificate Courses
Curriculum in this AACSB-accredited program prepares you to address real-world business challenges with data science innovation. You'll gain experience using AI and analytics tools to improve operational efficiency, streamline research and planning, accelerate decision-making, and solve complex problems.
This 12-credit graduate Artificial Intelligence for Business Certificate features 6 courses, including electives you can tailor to your interests.
Advance Your Career in Any Industry
The AI for Business Certificate can help you achieve your goals faster, whether you’re expanding your skillset, planning a career pivot, or leading teams through the transition to an AI-driven workplace. The knowledge you gain can also prepare you for specialized roles such as AI product manager, business intelligence analyst, data scientist, or digital transformation consultant.
Recent market research indicates that employers offer salaries up to 28% higher for positions requiring AI skills, with significant growth in demand for AI expertise in human resources (66%), marketing and public relations (50%), and finance (40%)1.
- 34% job growth for data scientists through 2034—much faster than average1
- $110,240–$126,940 median salary for data scientists in management and consulting2
Value of a Certificate
The Minnesota Carlson AI for Business Certificate program offers a collaborative learning environment where you can explore use cases for artificial intelligence and leverage this powerful technology with the support of expert faculty. You can even get a head start on a master’s degree, since the credits you earn can be applied to the Carlson Part-Time MBA, Online MBA, or Online Master of Applied Business Analytics program.
Carlson's graduate certificates provide the advanced knowledge and hands-on experience you need for professional development and long-term career growth. This program consists of 12 credit hours, and tuition is $1,797 per credit hour. The total tuition cost is $21,564.
Graduate certificate-seeking students who are U.S. military members or veterans are eligible for a 15% military discount.
Admissions Details and Application Deadlines
Carlson offers a streamlined online application for our graduate certificate programs. There is no minimum GPA or GRE/GMAT requirement, and our application fee is $75, with a waiver available for active-duty U.S. military service members. You can explore other requirements below.
Admissions Requirements Overview
The following materials and competencies are required to apply to the AI for Business Certificate program:
- Bachelor's degree from an accredited institution
- Completed application
- Unofficial transcripts from all universities/colleges where coursework has been completed
- Two professional references/recommendations
- Personal statement
- Current resume
- Successful completion of a college-level quantitative course by the time of application (one semester of calculus, linear algebra, or statistics)
- Demonstrated computer programming competency in at least one programming language (academic transcripts, certificates from online courses of at least 20 hours, or work experience may be cited to meet this requirement). Programming proficiency acquired through work experience must be clearly documented on the resume, with details on how it was applied to work responsibilities.
- Proof of English Language Proficiency is required for international students. The following tests are accepted:
- Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL)
- International Language Testing System (IELTS)
- Pearson Test of English Academic (PTE)
- Duolingo
Work experience is preferred but not required.
Application Deadlines
Spring (January Start) | Fall (September Start) |
|---|---|
| Round 1: October 15 | May 15 |
| Round 2: November 15 | June 15 |
| Round 3: December 15 | July 15 |
FAQ
Find answers to common questions about Minnesota Carlson's AI for Business Certificate below.
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Sources
- Lightcast. “New Lightcast Report: AI Skills Command 28% Salary Premium as Demand Shifts Beyond Tech Industry.” Retrieved February 6, 2026.
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Occupational Outlook Handbook – Data Scientists. Retrieved February 6, 2026.