AI for Executives: The Basics gives managers a practical, non-technical introduction to artificial intelligence and machine learning for business decision-making. You’ll learn how AI fits into executive strategy, what ML models can and can’t do, and how to lead data-driven initiatives that create measurable value. Starting with the fundamentals, the course explains algorithms vs. models, core ML tasks, and the lifecycle for building and governing solutions. You’ll then design a data strategy—covering data quality, privacy, and responsible use—before applying techniques such as regression, decision trees, and modern large language models (LLMs) to real executive-level use cases. Finally, you’ll put it together by planning AI pipelines, evaluating model performance and non-functional properties, and knowing when to customize or reuse off-the-shelf models. Hands-on assignments use familiar tools and require no coding. By the end, you’ll be able to map business problems to the right AI approach, communicate with technical teams, and build an informed roadmap for adopting AI across your organization.



Recommended experience
What you'll learn
Map executive decisions to the right AI/ML methods; distinguish algorithms vs. models.
Build a governance-ready data strategy—data quality, anonymity, and privacy—for AI projects.
Plan AI pipelines and evaluate/select models—including when to reuse LLMs and off-the-shelf options.
Skills you'll gain
- Data Quality
- Decision Tree Learning
- Data-Driven Decision-Making
- Machine Learning
- Data Management
- Artificial Intelligence
- Technical Management
- Large Language Modeling
- Business Leadership
- Data Strategy
- Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning (AI/ML)
- Business Analytics
- Analytics
- Regression Analysis
- Strategic Decision-Making
- Predictive Analytics
- Data Governance
Details to know

Add to your LinkedIn profile
6 assignments
See how employees at top companies are mastering in-demand skills

There are 5 modules in this course
This module provides a foundational understanding of the crucial role Machine Learning plays in shaping executive decision-making processes. Participants will explore the core concepts of Machine Learning, uncovering its strategic significance in influencing high-level business decisions. The module offers a comprehensive exploration of the fundamental principles that govern the application of Machine Learning in an executive/business context.
What's included
11 videos7 readings2 assignments1 ungraded lab
What's included
5 videos2 readings1 assignment1 ungraded lab
What's included
14 videos14 readings1 assignment2 ungraded labs
What's included
11 videos12 readings1 assignment
What's included
4 videos4 readings1 assignment
Instructor

Offered by
Why people choose Coursera for their career





Open new doors with Coursera Plus
Unlimited access to 10,000+ world-class courses, hands-on projects, and job-ready certificate programs - all included in your subscription
Advance your career with an online degree
Earn a degree from world-class universities - 100% online
Join over 3,400 global companies that choose Coursera for Business
Upskill your employees to excel in the digital economy
Frequently asked questions
To access the course materials, assignments and to earn a Certificate, you will need to purchase the Certificate experience when you enroll in a course. You can try a Free Trial instead, or apply for Financial Aid. The course may offer 'Full Course, No Certificate' instead. This option lets you see all course materials, submit required assessments, and get a final grade. This also means that you will not be able to purchase a Certificate experience.
When you purchase a Certificate you get access to all course materials, including graded assignments. Upon completing the course, your electronic Certificate will be added to your Accomplishments page - from there, you can print your Certificate or add it to your LinkedIn profile.
Yes. In select learning programs, you can apply for financial aid or a scholarship if you can’t afford the enrollment fee. If fin aid or scholarship is available for your learning program selection, you’ll find a link to apply on the description page.
More questions
Financial aid available,