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Saïd Business School, University of Oxford

AI Essentials

Matthias Holweg

Instructor: Matthias Holweg

Included with Coursera Plus

Gain insight into a topic and learn the fundamentals.
Beginner level

Recommended experience

13 hours to complete
3 weeks at 4 hours a week
Flexible schedule
Learn at your own pace
Gain insight into a topic and learn the fundamentals.
Beginner level

Recommended experience

13 hours to complete
3 weeks at 4 hours a week
Flexible schedule
Learn at your own pace

What you'll learn

  • Understand the core concepts behind machine learning, neural networks, and deep learning.

  • Identify practical applications and limitations of AI across industries.

Details to know

Shareable certificate

Add to your LinkedIn profile

Recently updated!

July 2025

Assessments

4 assignments

Taught in English

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Build your subject-matter expertise

This course is part of the AI Foundations for Business Professionals Specialization
When you enroll in this course, you'll also be enrolled in this Specialization.
  • Learn new concepts from industry experts
  • Gain a foundational understanding of a subject or tool
  • Develop job-relevant skills with hands-on projects
  • Earn a shareable career certificate

There are 5 modules in this course

AI is transforming how decisions are made, insights are generated, and value is created across every industry. In this course, you’ll learn how AI systems work, what makes them different from traditional tools, and where their real power lies. You’ll also explore the ethical risks they pose, and what it takes to lead AI initiatives with clarity and care.

What's included

2 readings

Artificial Intelligence is rapidly reshaping industries, redefining how organisations make decisions, create value, and interact with customers. In this module, you'll explore what AI really is, how it works, and why understanding its potential, and its limitations, is essential for responsible leadership.

What's included

3 videos5 readings1 assignment6 plugins

Artificial intelligence may feel like a modern breakthrough, but its roots stretch back over 80 years. In this module, you’ll trace the intellectual and technical evolution of AI, understanding how each generation of research has influenced today’s capabilities. You’ll also explore why expectations often outpace reality, and how tools like the Gartner Hype Cycle help us think more critically about AI’s path from experimental concept to business-ready solution. With this historical context, you’ll be better equipped to evaluate where AI is going, and what questions we should be asking next.

What's included

1 video4 readings2 assignments5 plugins

AI is no longer theoretical; it’s powering tools that detect fraud, recommend products, diagnose diseases, and generate content. In this module, you’ll explore the core types of machine learning, the role of neural networks, and the real-world capabilities and limitations of the AI systems used in business today.

What's included

2 videos4 readings1 assignment2 plugins

This final module consolidates your learning from across the course and invites you to reflect on how AI can be used responsibly and effectively in your own context. You’ll revisit the key themes of prediction, value creation, ethics, and oversight, then apply your knowledge through a peer reviewed assignment that challenges you to create an AI implementation strategy for an insurance company.

What's included

4 readings1 peer review

Earn a career certificate

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Instructor

Matthias Holweg
Saïd Business School, University of Oxford
1 Course1 learner

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