BLOOMINGTON, Ind. — Indiana University will introduce a new, free artificial intelligence course this fall that will give ALL students, faculty and staff essential AI skills that are critical for today’s workplaces.
The course, GenAI 101, will introduce practical skills in generative AI to students in all degree programs, providing a foundation in AI literacy that is applicable to each student’s chosen field. It will also be available to anyone else with an IU login, reflecting IU’s commitment to cultivating a future-ready workforce.
“Our new GenAI 101 course will ensure that all members of our community — regardless of role or major — are prepared to meet the opportunities of an AI-powered world,” IU President Pamela Whitten said. “By building a foundation of AI literacy and practical skills, IU is preparing students to excel in their careers and support the evolving needs of Indiana’s workforce and economy. I am looking forward to being the first to take this course when it goes live next month.”
Developed for early to mid-stage learners with no prior experience required, GenAI 101 offers a comprehensive, self-paced, hands-on curriculum. Participants will master 20 key generative AI skills across three major areas: Foundational Prompt Engineering, GenAI as a Thought Partner and GenAI as a Productivity Amplifier.
The course is structured into eight modules and 16 concise lessons, each featuring practical takeaways, high-quality visuals and real-world applications tailored for today’s digital landscape. Participants will be equipped with critical skills, such as prompt engineering, data storytelling, fact-checking AI-generated content and ethical AI use.
IU’s GenAI 101 stands out for its real-time, conversational AI learning agent named Crimson, who will provide on-demand support for learners. All tools and examples are built around GenAI platforms already available to IU students and employees, making the course both relevant and immediately applicable.
“Generative AI is evolving rapidly, creating real opportunities for those who are comfortable with these tools,” said Brian Williams, the lead professor for the course and chair of the Virtual Advanced Business Technologies Department at the Kelley School of Business. “We designed this course to help participants develop practical skills they can immediately apply in their own field to work more effectively and efficiently.”
IU is already a national leader in artificial intelligence, developing new AI applications at a rapid pace, as well as offering degrees in AI for those wishing to make it a career.
More information, such as how to register for the course, will be shared soon.
