Oxford Programme in Strategic Analysis and Decision Making with AI

Programme FAQs

• What is the primary focus of this AI-driven decision-making programme?

  This programme focuses on applying generative AI into strategic decision-making frameworks rather than just teaching the technical aspects of the tools. You'll learn to use AI as a thinking partner to:

  • Analyse external business environments using PESTEL
  • Reduce risk through AI-supported scenario planning
  • Create customer-centric strategies using segmentation, targeting, and positioning (STP)
  • Make decisions under uncertainty with greater confidence

• Do I need technical coding skills to join?

  ​​​​​​No, technical coding skills are not required to succeed on this programme. The curriculum focuses on the strategic application of generative AI tools, rather than software engineering or programming. You'll learn how to write clear prompts to get useful outputs from these tools.

• How is the programme delivered?

  The programme is delivered entirely online to support working professionals. It combines:

  • Self-paced learning modules: Video lectures and content you can access at your convenience

  • Live interaction sessions: Sessions with Oxford experts to discuss concepts and case studies

  • Hands-on practice: Practical exercises using AI tools and strategic frameworks

• What is the duration of this ‘AI and decision-making’ programme?

  ​​​​​​This is a structured 12-week learning path. It is designed to provide deep insight into strategic analysis and AI application without requiring a year-long commitment, making it ideal for busy executives.

• Does this programme grant Elumni status?

  Successful completion grants you Oxford Saïd Executive Education Elumni status. This connects you with a global network of over 50,000 professionals across 195 countries and offers exclusive benefits including event access and a discount on future study.

• How much time should I dedicate weekly?

  To get the most out of this learning journey, we recommend dedicating three to five hours per week. This allows you sufficient time to engage with self-paced video modules, attend live interaction sessions and complete the hands-on case studies effectively.

• What is the format of the classes?

  The programme uses a flexible blended format designed for working professionals. It combines self-paced learning modules with live faculty interaction sessions, ensuring you benefit from both independent study and direct expert engagement.

• Who is the programme faculty?

  The programme is led by Professor Andrew Stephen, the L'Oréal Professor of Marketing at Saïd Business School. He is a world-leading expert in the intersection of marketing, technology and consumer behaviour, recognised as the top marketing academic in the UK

• Can I pay the fee in instalments?

  ​​​​​​​We offer a variety of flexible payment options to suit your needs. Please contact our admissions team or review the payment section on this page for specific details regarding financing plans or instalment options that may be available in your region.

• Will we learn prompt engineering?

  ​​​​​​​Writing effective prompts is a core part of the curriculum. You will learn to structure inputs to generate useful strategic analysis, using the tools to support your thinking instead of just retrieving information.

• How does this programme differ from a standard strategy course?

  ​​​​​​Standard courses often teach frameworks like PESTEL or Five Forces in isolation. This programme teaches you to integrate generative AI into these frameworks to help generate insights and support scenario planning and risk evaluation.

• Is the programme live or recorded?

  ​​​​​​​You will have access to high-quality recorded video lectures for self-paced learning, supplemented by live interaction sessions. These live elements allow you to discuss complex concepts directly with faculty and peers to deepen your understanding.

• Do I need to buy AI software subscriptions?

  We use publicly available AI tools for all exercises. Free versions are usually enough. We do not provide software licences for these tools.

• Can fresh graduates apply for this programme?

  ​​​​​​​This programme requires a minimum of five years of professional experience and is not suitable for fresh graduates. It is designed for mid-to-senior professionals who can bring their own industry context and leadership challenges to the discussions.

• What is the refund policy?

  To qualify for a refund, you must submit your refund request within 7 days from the start date of the regular class (Live or Recorded, as the case may be), whether attended or not. Any refund request failing to meet this requirement will not be accepted and no refund will be provided.

• What happens if I miss a live session?

  ​​​​​​​All live interaction sessions are recorded and made available for later viewing. However, we strongly encourage live attendance whenever possible to ensure you get the most out of the direct interaction with faculty and the opportunity to ask questions.

• What industries is this relevant for?

  The strategic frameworks and AI applications we cover are relevant across industries. They are highly relevant for professionals in finance, technology, healthcare, manufacturing, consulting and beyond who need to make high-stakes decisions under uncertainty

• Will I learn to code or build AI models?

  This is a management programme, not a technical one, so you will not learn Python or coding. Instead, you will focus on learning to apply existing generative AI tools to solve strategic business problems and support your analysis

• How are the case studies structured?

  You will step into specific professional roles. For VoltEdge Motors, you act as a strategist entering a new market. For GreenTrail, you act as a consultant working on customer alignment. Both scenarios require the practical application of AI tools

• What is the 'Pick Your Battle' framework?

  ​​​​​​​'Pick Your Battle' is a framework for purpose-driven strategy. You will use it to identify social and environmental focus areas that align with your brand and customer needs, ensuring your impact initiatives are strategic rather than just charitable.

• Can I interact with other participants?

  You will join a cohort of experienced professionals from diverse backgrounds. Peer interaction is encouraged through discussion forums and live sessions, allowing you to network, share industry perspectives and learn from your global colleagues.

• Can I change my cohort after enroling in the programme?

  Yes. You are eligible for one complimentary cohort change within the first 30 days of your enrolment. If you cannot continue in your current cohort or have already used your complimentary change, you may request an additional cohort transfer by paying the applicable fee. For details on the process and support with your request, please contact our support team.