August 24, 2020
Mizzou Engineering has launched certifications in artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML). The graduate-level program aims to help students and professionals acquire the skills needed to compete in an AI-driven job market.
“AI is now being used in a variety of everyday products,” said Yi Xiang, director of graduate studies in electrical engineering and computer science. “AI is in cars that drive themselves, robots that eradicate weeds, and computers that distinguish between skin cancer and benign moles. This technology is revolutionizing a variety of industries.”
According to a report from job search site Indeed, the demand for employees with AI skills has more than doubled in the past three years. Additionally, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Research reports that related jobs, such as computer research scientists and developers, are growing at a much faster pace than the national average.
“This type of work is evolving every day,” Shan says. “Our program not only introduces students to the latest technology, but also provides fundamental skills essential for jobs that don’t yet exist.”
A leader in AI and machine learning
Mr Shang said the Department of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science was an ideal place to earn this certificate. The department already has a faculty with well-funded research programs in AI and machine learning. Additionally, the department offers an extensive list of high-quality courses in these areas.
“The EECS Department is the center of research and education in AI and machine learning in Mizzou and the state of Missouri,” Xiang said. “In recent years, thanks to our strength in this field, we have seen an increase in the number of graduate students participating in our programs.”
Students pursuing the new certification will have the opportunity to learn advanced AI and machine learning techniques such as deep learning. Deep learning is a cutting-edge technology used to teach computers to understand the world and converse with people in natural language. AI and machine learning are essential for analyzing big data obtained from various fields of society, such as medicine and medicine.
“Data-driven discovery powered by AI is becoming a key tool in science and engineering,” said Xiang.
Obtaining a certificate
You must complete 15 credit hours to earn your certificate. Students take two required machine learning courses and choose from electives in AI, machine learning, robotics, computer vision, and natural language processing.
In most cases, students can complete the certificate in two semesters.
Shang expects students across campus to be interested in the certificate. Specifically, the Graduate Certificate in AI and Machine Learning complements Engineering, Mathematics, Statistics, Business, and Life Sciences. It is also expected to attract professionals already working in business, engineering and technology who want to develop their AI skills.
View all AI and Machine Learning certificate course offerings here. If Mizzou students would like to add a certificate to their graduate program, please speak with your advisor. If you wish to pursue your certificate independently, you can apply here as a non-degree student.
