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Deadline: 15 November 2026
Summary
Carnegie Mellon University Africa is accepting applications for a six-course online Certificate in Artificial Intelligence for Africa. The programme is free for qualified applicants, with the next cohort starting on 17 January 2027. Nigerian students and professionals who meet the prerequisites can apply.
Courses cover AI in Africa, Python, mathematical foundations, machine learning and generative AI. Learners earn digital badges and a certificate; the programme does not carry university credit.
Requirements
- Basic knowledge of linear algebra, probability, statistics and computer programming.
- A laptop or desktop computer and reliable internet access.
- Time to study for at least five to six hours each week.
Six-course curriculum
- Artificial Intelligence – Past, Present and Future.
- AI and Machine Learning in Africa.
- Python for AI.
- Mathematical Foundations of Machine Learning.
- Machine Learning Essentials.
- Applied Generative AI.
Study format and workload
CMU engineering professors designed the online curriculum. Each course contains 14 or 15 lessons, with approximately three hours per lesson and about 45 hours per course. Learners should allow five to six study hours weekly. Completing courses earns digital badges; completing all six earns a shareable, verifiable certificate. The programme is non-credit.
Skills developed
- Understand what AI tools can do, their limitations and their appropriate use.
- Build analytical and technical foundations for African applications.
- Develop models using current frameworks, tools and engineering practices.
- Translate real problems into deployable data-driven solutions and evaluate their impact with validation methods and appropriate metrics.
Who the programme serves
The certificate is suitable for university students, early-career learners seeking internships or entry-level positions, and technical professionals developing their skills. Relevant pathways include machine-learning applications, AI development, product support, research and innovation.
Dates and contact
Applications and recommendations are accepted from 15 October to 15 November 2026. The cohort begins 17 January 2027. Programme enquiries can be sent to cmuafricacerts@andrew.cmu.edu.
How to apply
Use the university’s official programme page and select “Apply to the program.” Complete the application by the closing date. Recommendations are accepted during the same application window.
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