Published on Mar 19, 2025
When BCS introduced its Essentials and Foundation Certificates in Artificial Intelligence in 2019, they were the first professional qualifications looking at the ethical and sustainable development of AI solutions.
The widespread adoption of AI technologies in the six years that followed has been nothing short of remarkable. What was once the research and development focus of technology companies has evolved into a critical strategic priority for organisations of all sizes and in every sector of industry around the world.
While the initial BCS AI Certificates provided foundational skills concerning the responsible development of AI applications, the focus emphasised technical aspects of building AI solutions over the comprehensive oversight mechanisms required for managing AI-related risks effectively. In updating its syllabi, BCS has refocused the programme to highlight essential AI governance processes and frameworks that evaluate, monitor, and mitigate potential ethical and operational risks throughout the AI development lifecycle.
The updated BCS Foundation Certificate in AI addresses the fundamental principles and concepts of AI, along with its practical implications in the real world. Participants will learn the history of AI from its origins to its modern-day resurgence, with a particular emphasis on machine learning, robotics, generative AI and large language models. Attendees will also consider the opportunities in which AI tools and applications can transform business services as we move towards a more technologically advanced society.
The new BCS AI Foundation goes beyond the identification of AI opportunities to provide best practice guidance on performing financial cost-benefit analysis, conducting impact assessments, and structuring business cases, all of which are required to justify undertaking an AI project and secure the necessary funding.
Next, in order to prioritise ethical and sustainable AI solutions, the updated BCS AI Foundation examines the challenges and risks associated with AI projects, such as those related to privacy, transparency and potential biases in algorithms that could lead to unintended consequences. In addressing these challenges, the BCS AI Foundation explores existing regulatory frameworks, including the UK General Data Protection Regulation and the Data Protection Act 2018, as well as AI-related legislation like the EU Artificial Intelligence Act.
Participants will also consider the role of data, effective risk management strategies, compliance obligations, financial cost controls, and ongoing governance of the AI lifecycle.
Award holders of the BCS AI Foundation will be able to demonstrate a thorough understanding of the skills required to ensure the deployment of responsible AI tools and applications.
The BCS AI Foundation is suitable for a range of non-technical and business process-orientated roles, including middle and senior management professionals working with teams expected to create or use AI tools and applications:
The updated BCS Essentials Certificate in AI introduces a complicated topic to provide professionals with a basic understanding in order to facilitate informed conversations with specialist teams responsible for developing AI systems.
Award holders will be able to demonstrate a basic understanding of the following areas:
As an entry-level programme, the AI Essentials is suitable for:
At Freevacy, we offer industry-leading certificated AI governance training from BCS to help teams and their organisations unlock the transformative potential of AI, maximise their return on investment, and ensure long-term success in an increasingly AI-driven world.
Freevacy has been shortlisted in the Best Educator category.
The PICCASO Privacy Awards recognise the people making an outstanding contribution to this dynamic and fast-growing sector.
