Artificial Intelligence (AI) Essentials

Date: 17th February 2026

Modality: In-person

Duration: One day – 9:00am-4:00pm

Price: $1,259.00 (incl GST.) If you are eligible for the UoA Staff or Auckland Council Training Member discount, please email shortcourses@auckland.ac.nz before you register.

In today's rapidly evolving business landscape, AI is revolutionising how organisations operate, make decisions, and compete in the market. AI Essentials is a one-day intensive course designed to equip business professionals with the knowledge and tools necessary to leverage AI effectively within their organisations.

This course demystifies AI, focusing on practical applications and strategies that drive business value. This hands-on session will draw on real-world case studies to provide you with a comprehensive understanding of AI technologies and their impact on various business functions. Key topics include data-driven decision-making, AI-driven process automation, and ethical considerations in AI implementation.

Learn how to integrate AI into your business strategies, enhance operational efficiency, and stay ahead in the competitive landscape. This course is ideal for business leaders, managers, and professionals from all sectors looking to harness the power of AI to transform their organisations*.

*No technical expertise is required.

Short course structure and topics covered:

Morning Session: Introduction and AI in Business

• Introduction to AI: Basic concepts of AI and its relevance in business.
• Key AI Technologies: An overview of AI technologies impacting various business functions today.
• Case Studies: Real-world examples of AI implementation in different industries.

Midday Session: Practical Applications and Hands-On Sessions

• Data-Driven Decision Making: Using AI for data analysis and predictive analytics.
• Hands-On with AI Tools: Practical sessions with selected AI tools for business applications, such as data analysis and process automation.
• AI Productivity Tools: Exploring AI tools to enhance daily routines, from writing reports to creating presentation slides.
• Interactive Exercise: Participants work on a business scenario using AI tools to solve problems or improve processes.

Afternoon Session: Ethics, Governance, and Future Trends

• Ethics and AI Governance: Ethical considerations in AI implementation and best practices for AI governance.
• Future Trends in AI: Exploring emerging AI technologies and their potential business applications.

Learning outcomes: 

Participants will:

• Gain a foundational understanding of AI technologies relevant to various business functions.
• Learn to use specific AI tools to enhance business operations and decision-making processes.
• Develop strategies to incorporate AI into ongoing business practices for long-term benefits.
• Understand ethical considerations and best practices for AI governance.
• Gain insights into future AI trends and innovations to stay ahead in the competitive business landscape.

Your organisation will:

•  Equip your workforce with cutting-edge knowledge and tools to stay competitive.
•  Foster innovation in business strategies through the practical application of AI.
• Enhance operational efficiency and ROI through targeted AI-driven approaches.
• Build a forward-thinking culture that embraces technological advancements.
• Benefit from employees who can strategically implement AI to solve business problems and improve processes. 

Who should attend? / any entry requirements? 

• Business leaders, managers, and professionals from various sectors seeking to leverage AI for improved business operations and decision-making processes.
• Individuals in strategic roles responsible for driving innovation and implementing new technologies within their organisations.
• Small business owners and entrepreneurs aiming to gain a competitive advantage through AI-driven strategies.
• Professionals from non-technical backgrounds who wish to understand and apply AI in their business contexts.
• Consultants and advisors providing strategic guidance to businesses, requiring up-to-date knowledge on AI advancement.

Previous participant Review

"Exceeded expectations, great practical info as well as inspiration for application back on the job."

Shane Ramsay 

Auckland Transport

If you would like to inquire about this course being run inhouse, please email shortcourses@auckland.ac.nz

Payment for short courses is normally by credit card. If you need to pay by invoice or require assistance, please email shortcourses@auckland.ac.nz. Please note that the University does not issue individual invoices for amounts less than $500 New Zealand dollars. 

By enrolling in a Short Course at the University of Auckland you agree to the Short Course Terms and Conditions