Professional Certificate Program inMachine Learning and Artificial Intelligence

Professional Certificate in AIML FAQs

• What is the Professional Certificate Program in Machine Learning and Artificial Intelligence by Cal Poly EPaCE?

  Cal Poly EPaCE’s Professional Certificate Program, in collaboration with IBM, powered by Simplilearn, helps you build industry‑ready skills like Python, applied data science, machine learning, deep learning, generative AI, LLMs, prompt engineering, and more, through a rigorous, hands‑on 20‑week curriculum with real‑world projects and capstones.

• Who should enroll in this AI and Machine Learning program?

  This program is designed for early to mid‑career professionals in IT, software, data, and engineering, as well as leaders and entrepreneurs who want to upskill in AI/ML and apply these capabilities to solve business problems.

• What are the key learning outcomes of this Professional Certificate Program?

  By the end of this course, learners will be able to build ML models and neural networks, work with CNNs, RNNs, transformers, and foundation models, and apply transfer learning and prompt engineering. They can also implement generative AI solutions, supported by a portfolio of three capstones and multiple projects.

• What are the tools and technologies I’ll master in this course?

  Learners can gain experience with tools such as Python, NumPy, Pandas, SciPy, scikit‑learn, Matplotlib, Seaborn, TensorFlow, Keras, PyTorch, OpenCV, and NLTK, alongside platforms such as IBM watsonx.ai and Hugging Face.

• What topics are covered in the AI and Machine Learning curriculum?

  The curriculum consists of Python programming, applied data science, supervised and unsupervised learning, recommendation systems, deep learning (including CNNs, RNNs, and transformers), LLMs and GANs, diffusion and foundation models, and prompt engineering.

• Are there any live classes or only self-paced sessions?

  The program includes more than 100 hours of live, interactive online sessions with industry experts, IBM industry masterclasses, hackathons, and ask-me-anything sessions.

• What type of real-world projects are included in this AI ML program?

  Learners must complete over ten applied projects, including 3 capstone projects: vehicle detection and safety analytics, tourism recommendations, sales forecasting, HR attrition analysis, loan default prediction, and marketing and e‑commerce analytics.

• Will I receive guidance from mentors or industry experts during projects?

  Yes, you will get support through live sessions by industry experts and masterclasses IBM experts, with capstones guided by industry practitioners.

• What certificate will I receive after completing the program?

  Learners will receive a program completion certificate from Cal Poly EPaCE and Simplilearn, and IBM issues certificates for IBM courses completed within the program

• Is the Cal Poly EPaCE certificate recognized globally?

  Yes. Cal Poly EPaCE is part of California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo, which is consistently ranked among the nation’s top universities, including #1 Regional University (West), #1 Top Public School, and #7 Best Value School by U.S. News. Hence, the certificate carries strong brand recognition and credibility with employers globally.

• Will I also receive IBM certificates during the program?

  Yes, IBM certificates are awarded for applicable IBM courses taken during the program.

• Are these certifications beneficial for advancing an AI and ML career?

  These certifications, along with hands-on projects and capstone assignments, show that professionals are prepared to take on advanced AI and ML challenges and drive innovation.

• What kind of AI and ML job roles can I apply for after completing this program?

  After completing the program, learners can apply for roles that involve building and leading AI initiatives, such as AI/ML engineer positions and data-focused roles designing ML models, neural networks, LLMs, and generative AI solutions.

• What is the average salary of AI and Machine Learning professionals?

  Built In (2025) reports that AI engineers in the United States earn an average total compensation of $214,227 per year.

• Can this program help me transition from a non-technical to an AI-focused career?

  Yes, the applied, project‑based design and career services support career transitions into AI/ML, though a foundation in programming and mathematics is recommended

• What are the eligibility criteria for this Professional Certificate Program?

  Applicants must be at least 18 years old and have a high school diploma or equivalent. Two or more years of work experience are preferred, and foundational knowledge of programming and mathematics is recommended.

• Do I need prior coding experience to join the program?

  No, prior AI/ML experience is not required, but a basic understanding of programming and mathematics is essential to effectively learn and apply AI/ML techniques.

• Are there financing or installment options available for the course fee?

  Yes. Flexible financing options are available. The total program fee is $3750, and you can pay in installments through Splitit or Klarna, with low APR and no hidden fees. You can reach out to the program advisor for more detailed information.