After this day you can use the main AI terms with confidence, explain the machine learning process in simple words and talk realistically about the benefits and risks of an AI project. That helps you follow AI discussions at work and ask the right questions. The course suits you if you lead teams whose applications rely on AI, or if you come from a technical or commercial role and want a compact start with no programming involved.
What you’ll take away.
- Distinguish human and artificial intelligence and explain core AI terms
- Describe the basic process of a machine learning project
- Name the benefits, challenges and risks of AI projects
- Assess how people and machines are likely to work together in future
Your training in detail
- Who is it for?
- Managers, project leads and professionals in engineering, finance, IT services or consulting who want a clear view of AI.
- Prerequisites
- BCS sets no entry requirements. It highly recommends being comfortable with computers and having a basic understanding of data, for example from spreadsheets.
- Format & planning
- Standard length: 1 training day. A different length can be arranged for companies.
Agenda: from understanding to application
Our independently developed agenda proposal. Focus areas, lab environment and scope are agreed before booking.
Human and artificial intelligence: introduction and history
Examples of use and types of AI
Benefits, challenges and risks in AI projects
Machine learning: the basic idea and typical process
People and machines in the future of work
Working through exam-style questions together
You review three everyday workplace examples of AI, looking at the benefits they bring and the risks you would need to settle before starting.
Exams, licences & credentials
The course prepares for the BCS Essentials Certificate in Artificial Intelligence exam. BCS awards the certificate. The exam and fees are included only if confirmed in the offer. It is not an official BCS course unless the offer says so.
Vendor references & review date
Sources checked on 2026-11-04. These sources describe the technology or external exam requirements. They do not imply a partnership with NextNowa.
Your learning content
These objectives describe the training topic. The specific syllabus, dates and trainer are agreed before booking; the written offer is binding.
Frequently asked questions
How does the exam work?
BCS lists 30 minutes, 20 multiple-choice questions and a closed-book format. You pass with 13 correct answers.
Is one training day enough for the exam?
The day covers the syllabus topics. For self-study with no prior knowledge, BCS gives a figure of around 40 hours, so allow time to revise after the training as well.
Does BCS Essentials Certificate in Artificial Intelligence: a compact introduction to AI include a certificate?
The course prepares for the BCS Essentials Certificate in Artificial Intelligence exam. BCS awards the certificate. The exam and fees are included only if confirmed in the offer. It is not an official BCS course unless the offer says so.