Produced by the Office of Marketing and Communications
By Matt Nessan
The University of Maryland is expanding its suite of non-credit artificial intelligence (AI) offerings with the launch of a new, free online course, “Artificial Intelligence in Government.” Offered on Coursera, the self-paced course empowers public sector professionals to explore how AI technologies can enhance government operations.
Taught by Joe Mariani, senior research manager at Deloitte Consulting’s Center for Government Insights, the new offering is part of UMD’s growing catalog of AI courses designed for current students, working professionals and lifelong learners.
“These courses aren’t just about AI or even technology,” said Matt Nessan, director of programs, marketing, and communications in Extended Studies, the unit that manages UMD’s non-credit options. “They are about preparing students and the Maryland workforce to be agile, curious and capable in a world where knowledge is rapidly evolving."
UMD’s other non-credit AI courses across Coursera, edX and Open Learning include:
“AI in Digital Marketing”: tailored for digital marketers and business leaders seeking to use AI for customer engagement, personalized content strategies, and campaign optimization.
“AI Empowerment for Small Businesses”: a practical guide for entrepreneurs and small business owners looking to enhance business planning, improve customer experiences, and harness predictive analytics.
“Artificial Intelligence and Career Empowerment”: geared toward early- to mid-career professionals exploring transitions into AI-related roles or seeking new career directions.
Two new courses with an AI focus are currently under development. “Introduction to Using Generative AI for Accounting and Finance Professionals” will provide practical training in tools like natural language processing and computer vision. “AI for Business Leaders” will offer strategic insights into how AI can be applied across domains such as supply chain, healthcare, finance, and marketing.
All courses are available for free, with an option to pay a fee to receive a professional certificate.
“Courses like these lower the barrier to AI education, equipping more students—regardless of major or background—with the skills they need to thrive in an increasingly AI-driven world,” Nessan said.
Maryland Today is produced by the Office of Marketing and Communications for the University of Maryland community on weekdays during the academic year, except for university holidays.
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