Google launches AI professional certificate for job-ready skills

Google has introduced a new AI Professional Certificate on Coursera, designed to help professionals advance beyond basic AI knowledge and build practical, job-ready skills. The program aims to enable learners to apply AI tools effectively in their daily work as industries increasingly prioritize AI fluency.

The certificate includes three months of complimentary access to Google AI Pro, a platform that provides hands-on experience with Google’s advanced AI models such as Gemini, NotebookLM, and AI Studio. This access is intended to help participants gain real-world expertise while developing applied AI capabilities.

Bridging the talent gap in the AI-driven economy

The launch comes amid growing demand for AI proficiency in the workforce. According to Bain & Company, India is projected to create 2.3 million AI-related jobs by 2027. However, with only 1.2 million skilled professionals currently available, the country faces a significant talent shortfall of over one million workers.

To meet this need, Google analyzed hundreds of job descriptions and collaborated with employers to design a curriculum that focuses on universal and transferable skills. The program emphasizes practical AI applications in areas such as research, planning, communication, content creation, data analysis, and workflow automation.

Lisa Gevelber, Founder of Grow with Google, highlighted the economic opportunities this program seeks to create. "The Google AI Professional Certificate translates the power of AI into tangible economic opportunity for every business and worker. Top employers and universities across the country will use this training to help their teams and students succeed", she said.

A streamlined learning experience

Designed to be accessible to busy professionals, the program consists of seven short courses and a hands-on capstone project, which can be completed in approximately ten hours. Upon completion, participants will have built a portfolio of practical work showcasing their ability to responsibly and effectively use AI tools.

Greg Hart, CEO of Coursera, emphasized the importance of equipping learners with actionable skills to thrive in an AI-driven economy. "Success in an AI-driven economy depends on access to relevant skills that enable career advancement in a rapidly changing job market", he said. Hart added that the new certificate provides learners with the confidence to immediately apply AI tools in their everyday work while gaining practical experience.

Learners who complete the program will emerge with valuable insights and hands-on capabilities, making them well-positioned to contribute in industries where AI fluency is becoming a baseline expectation.

The Google AI Professional Certificate is now available on Coursera, opening new opportunities for professionals looking to stay competitive in an increasingly AI-focused world.

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