Artificial Intelligence
Specialization

The Artificial Intelligence Specialization is a multi-level program offered to Saudi universities students and fresh graduates. The program consists of 4 main stages, with assessments in between each stage to get qualified to the following one. The program covers the field from the fundamentals to the advanced levels of AI technology with capstone projects showcasing the acquired knowledge.

Level
Beginner
Duration
10 weeks or more (split between courses)
user-circle Requirements
  1. You must be enrolled in a bachelor’s degree or graduated within a year from a Saudi university in computer science or a related field. Saudi residency applicants must have valid iqama at least until Sep 2025.
  2. Completion of the prerequisite courses on Coursera.
  3. Passing the assessments at each stage. Top qualified students will be invited to the next stage.
stack-2 Application Announcement
  1. The application will open soon.
  2. Eligible candidates will be invited to the placement test.
  3. To be eligible for the qualification exam, the candidate must be enrolled in KAUST Academy/Coursera Program within 5 days of Coursera invitation and will have to complete the required pre-requisite courses.
*Compulsory Step

Prerequisite Core Courses

To qualify for the Artificial Intelligence Specialization Program, you’ll need to sign up for Coursera within 5 days of receiving the invitation link at your registered email address, and then successfully complete the following courses to be eligible to take part in the placement test:

Python 3 Programming Specialization

Mathematics for Machine Learning and Data Science Specialization

Students with top scores in the placement test will receive invitation for (Introduction to AI) to join a one week in person training during university breaks. At the end of the course, students with top performance will be invited to another one week in person training (Advanced AI) and take an exam at the end of the course as well.

The top qualified students will receive invitation to participate in a variety of KAUST Academy Summer Programs at elite partners institutions in KSA and/or abroad including Summer School, Internships, and Research Programs.

Students who will not be selected after passing the placement test in October, will still have access to 200 courses, specializations, guided projects and more on Coursera until 31 July 2025. They will be eligible to receive a free certificate for each achievement on Coursera during that period.

Screenshot 2024-09-04 193727

Covered topics
in this course

  • Mathematics for Machine Learning and Datascience
  • Python Programming Skills
  • Basic machine learning
  • Computer Vision
  • Graph Neural Networks
  • Natural Language Processing
  • Deep Unsupervised Learning
  • Reinforcement Learning
  • Applications of AI in Physical Sciences
  • Additional courses on core skills, innovation and leadership

Skills you’ll gain

  • Computer Vision
  • Machine Learning
  • Linear Algebra
  • Optimization
  • Deep Learning Libraries
  • Large Scale Deep Learning
  • Python Programming
  • Artificial Intelligence Applications

Student Journey

Stage 1: Prerequisite Course 

Important Note: Signing up for the prerequisite courses on Coursera (Stage 1) does not guarantee participation in subsequent stages. Students must demonstrate their knowledge and skills by excelling in the assessments to progress through the program. Certificates of Completion will be awarded at each stage to acknowledge participants’ achievements. Qualified students will be invited to the next stage.

Duration: 2 to 4 Weeks     Completion Date: To Be Determined      Method: Self-Paced, Online Courses

Description: The students are required to complete 2 dedicated specializations (Python 3 Programming Specialization, Mathematics for Machine Learning and Data Science Specialization) that will supply them with the knowledge for machine learning and artificial intelligence, including basics of linear algebra, calculus, optimization, and Python Programming.

Stage 2: Introduction to Artificial Intelligence

Duration: 5 Days     Start Date: TBD during university breaks     Method: Instructor-Paced, In-Person Lectures

Description: The qualified students will learn classical machine learning tools, including linear regression, logistic regression, decision trees, support vector machine. The students will also be introduced to neural networks, deep networks, and deep learning libraries. Qualified students will be invited to the next stage.

Stage 3: Advanced AI Course

Duration: 4 Days     Start Date: TBD during university breaks      Method: Instructor-Paced, In-Person Lectures

Description: The qualified students will learn about convolutional neural networks and their applications of convolutional neural networks to computer vision applications, including image classification, segmentation, and object detection. Qualified students will be invited to the next stage.

Stage 4: AI Summer Program

Duration: 8 Weeks      Start Date: 29 June, 2025      Method: Instructor-Paced, In-Person Lectures

Description: Qualified students will be invited to the prestigious KAUST Academy Summer Program in one of KAUST Academy top partner institutions in KSA or abroad. Students will be provided with on campus accommodation and privileges.

The students will learn about the following areas of Artificial Intelligence.

1)         Natural language processing

2)         Reinforcement learning

3)         Deep Unsupervised Learning

4)         Graph Neural Networks

 

Recommended Agenda

Below you can find a suggested agenda, with a goal to complete the specified courses to attend the placement test and advance in the program.

Period picker
Module 1
Linear Algebra for Machine Learning and Data Science
Module 2
Calculus for Machine Learning and Data Science
Module 1
Probability & Statistics for Machine Learning & Data Science
Module 2
Python Basics
Module 1
Python Functions, Files, and Dictionaries
Module 2
Data Collection and Processing with Python
Module 1
Python Classes and Inheritance
Module 2
Python Project: pillow, tesseract, and opencv
Untitled design (2)

Professor’s Take
on the Course

“Artificial intelligence isn’t just a buzzword; it’s the cornerstone of our future. The potential for AI to revolutionize industries, drive economic growth, and enhance the quality of life is unparalleled. At the AI Initiative, we are committed to bringing the best research, facilities, and products to the Kingdom. Our collaborations with global leaders and institutions ensure that we remain at the forefront of AI research and development.

Our mission isn’t just about technology; it’s about nurturing local talent to sustain our progress. We are partnering with KAUST Academy in providing programs that are meticulously crafted to educate and empower Saudi students with the skills needed to not only keep up with the rapid advancements in AI but to drive innovation themselves. By fostering a vibrant AI ecosystem, we’re ensuring that the Kingdom remains a frontrunner in the AI race”

Professor Bernard Ghanem, Deputy Director of AI Initiative at KAUST

Thousands of happy learners

Testimonial Image
The AI Specialization program was an incredible journey. It took me from the basics to advanced AI concepts, helping me develop important skills through each stage. The hands-on projects and continuous support allowed me to grow both technically and personally. I’m excited to apply what I’ve learned and explore future opportunities in AI.
Yazeed Alhazmi
Testimonial Image
The 8-week journey was transformative, expanding my skills and igniting a passion for innovation. This experience was a stepping stone to turning complex ideas into impactful solutions.
Lama Ayash
Testimonial Image
Knowledge, Experience, Connections. As someone who has acquired all these from the KAUST Academy, I wholeheartedly recommend the AI program. It provides a comprehensive blend of theoretical and practical learning, while also offering the chance to meet remarkable individuals and forge lasting relationships. If you seek to grow, learn, and connect, then this is your moment.
Iyas Baroud
Testimonial Image
Graduating from the KAUST Academy AI summer programs at KAUST and also at Oxford was an incredible experience. The programs offered a mix of deep academic learning and practical AI projects, enhancing my skills and knowledge. Collaborating with peers and learning in diverse environments shaped my academic path and prepared me to excel in AI
Ai - Mohammed Alharbi
Testimonial Image
The future of Saudi Arabia is in our hands, and I’m eager to contribute. With our knowledge and the power of AI, we have the potential to drive innovation, set new global standards, and create endless opportunities. Let’s come together and work towards building a future where our nation leads in technology and inspires the world!
Osamah Sarraj
Testimonial Image
“A mind that is stretched by new experiences can never go back to its old dimensions.” Oliver Wendell Holmes Sr.’s words capture my journey at KAUST Academy AI Program. Surrounded by brilliant minds and guided by top AI professors, I gained immense experience. I am deeply grateful to KAUST for this opportunity. To new students—embrace every moment and let it shape your contributions to this field.
Mohanad Al Dakheel
Testimonial Image
KAUST Academy's AI program fosters innovation and empowers young talents to integrate artificial intelligence across various disciplines. Its support has been crucial in expanding opportunities and fostering significant growth. Deep gratitude is warranted for this visionary initiative that enriches the field and its future prospects.
Abdulaziz Alomair
Testimonial Image
When I knew nothing about AI except its name, KAUST Academy not only took me from novice to skilled but also set me on a path where I can confidently continue my learning journey on my own due to the solid foundation and guidance I received
Ahmed Alnasser
Testimonial Image
Going through KAUST Academy's AI program is like taking normal courses but on steroids. You’ll learn a lot and discover even more; the real challenge is finding your passion among endless opportunities. Covering cutting-edge AI from computer vision to natural language processing and reinforcement learning, this program pushes everyone to work hard. It's designed to create future leaders.
Jawad Khan
Testimonial Image
I’ve always believed that opportunities don’t just happen, we create them. Joining KAUST Academy with no prior knowledge of AI, I took on the challenge to explore what the future of our world holds. Through hands on project and intensive courses from world class professors and experts, this experience has empowered me to lead in the tech world. This journey left a lasting impact on me. And now...
Nayef Aljhani
Testimonial Image
Studying at Oxford and KAUST Academy was a life-changing experience. These places didn't just teach me about AI; they helped me see how I can use it to make a difference. The support and knowledge I gained ... have made me more passionate about AI and its potential. This is something I truly believe in and want to share. No AI model could express these feelings—this comes straight from my heart
Mohammad Ataiq Alzahrani
Testimonial Image
Enrolling in KAUST Academy opened new doors for my career. The program gave me both the knowledge and confidence to take on AI projects that I never thought I could. I encourage everyone to embrace this opportunity and develop their skills in the AI field.
Bader Alshamrani
Testimonial Image
KAUST Academy’s AI program has been transformative, offering invaluable knowledge and hands-on experience. The expert guidance and supportive environment deepened my understanding, empowering me to pursue my ambitions and shaping my academic and professional path in AI.
Ibrahim Alhazmi
Testimonial Image
The KAUST Academy program has been an incredible experience, enhancing my AI knowledge and skills. Its comprehensive curriculum opened many doors for me, deepening my understanding of AI and its applications. I encourage you to seize the chance to lead innovation in this transformative field. Best of luck on your exciting journey into AI!
Mohammed Bremoo
Testimonial Image
Studying KAUST Academy’s AI Program at Oxford was truly a life-changing experience. The structure of the program and its exercises taught me how to approach any problem, guiding me from the initial idea, through theory, and into practical implementation. Learning state-of-the-art AI techniques was an incredibly enriching journey, and the knowledge gained is directly applicable to real-world market
Abdulrahman Almalki
Testimonial Image
My journey at KAUST Academy was not just about learning in the field of artificial intelligence; it was about learning discipline, commitment, hard work, and diligence. If I could describe my experience in one phrase, I would say, 'the most impactful, inspiring, and transformative experience.
Renad Abdulkhaleq Alshamrani
Testimonial Image
The Summer AI Program was an opportunity to gain cutting-edge AI skills, but more importantly, to connect with passionate individuals. The collaborative environment was rich with diverse perspectives and conversations that went far beyond the classroom. It’s not just what you learn, but the network you build that makes the experience unique, and KAUST Academy delivered that opportunity brilliantly
Abdulhadi Zubailah
Testimonial Image
Attending the KAUST Academy AI Summer Program has been a key moment in my academic journey. Strengthening my AI skills through hands-on projects gave me the confidence to apply them effectively. Engaging with mentors and peers deepened my passion for AI. Eager to make an impact, I’m excited for future innovations. Looking ahead, I feel ready for the challenges to come.
Abdulrahman Alghamdi
Testimonial Image
Embracing AI as an Aerospace Engineering student has been an eye-opening journey.From crafting aerodynamics to crafting algorithms, I've discovered the immense potential of AI, transcending disciplinary boundaries. I encourage everyone, irrespective of their majors, to dive into AI. It's not just a skill; it's a gateway to endl
Omar Alghamdi
Testimonial Image
Personally, I was having a hard time choosing a path for my career, but learning about all the different topics that emerged from AI was an eye-opening experience that made me realize the relevance of AI to the development of our beloved country. Now, I'm more confident than ever about what I want to do.
Faisal Alharthi
Testimonial Image
I have had a fabulous experience with the academy. Several doors have opened for me from spending my time in the academy learning about Artificial Intelligence and its different applications. The academy is more than just an academy, it shaped my future and has set my path that I can pursue to contribute back to society with the knowledge that I have gained.
Danah Almuhassin
Testimonial Image
KAUST Academy's innovative program turned my AI dreams into reality. It excels in academic challenges, offers a supportive environment, and provides guidance from knowledgeable professors. It significantly enhanced my AI understanding.
Hussain Almansory
Testimonial Image
KAUST Academy program enhances knowledge and develops skills in artificial intelligence. With Comprehensive curriculum covers theoretical foundations and practical applications. Engaging with interactive modules, hands-on exercises, and real-world case studies. Joining this outstanding program will help you thrive in the dynamic realm of artificial intelligence.
Ehab Abu-Alqumboz
Testimonial Image
AI represents both the reality of the present and the promise of the future. Take the chance to lead innovation in this revolutionary industry. Advance from novice to expert by learning from the top minds. You have an unique opportunity thanks to KAUST's priceless experience. I'm wishing you luck on your amazing adventure!
Ahmed Youssef Radwan
لقد حظيت بتجربة رائعة خلال البرنامج الصيفي للذكاء الاصطناعي. كان المنهج شاملاً وجذابًا، وكان المعلمون على دراية وداعمين، وقاموا بتوجيهنا خلال المختبرات والمشاريع العملية. أوصي بشدة ببرنامج الذكاء الاصطناعي الصيفي لأي شخص مهتم بالغوص في عالم الذكاء الاصطناعي المثير
Mohammed Atif Alshabrawi
Testimonial Image
Studying at Oxford and KAUST Academy profoundly enriched my educational journey, blending academic rigor with a welcoming community. Invaluable knowledge and connections were acquired, reflecting the synergy of academic excellence and support. Grateful for these distinguished learning communities.
Talal Majed Alkharashi
Will I be able to apply AI concepts in real-world scenarios after this course?

Absolutely. The course emphasizes practical programming and covers foundational concepts that are applicable to real-world AI solutions.

Is this course only for technical professionals?

This course is catered to University Students

How much time should I dedicate to the course each day?

(1st Stage) Prerequisite online course is self-paced, suggested completion time is 2 weeks.

(2nd to 4th Stages Introduction, Advanced, and Summer Program) are in-person and instructor-paced.

Will I receive a certificate upon completion?

Yes, participants who successfully complete the course will receive a certificate of completion to showcase their newfound AI knowledge and skills at each stage.

Is tuition free for the KAUST Academy Specialization Programs?

The program is currently offered with a full scholarship for talented students at all Saudi universities.

Do I have to complete the 200 courses to be invited to the Introduction to AI Program?

No, to qualify for the placement test, you are required to complete only the course(s) which are auto-enrolled to your access upon joining Coursera.

However, do not forget that you have free access to 200 courses, specialization, guided projects, and more through the KAUST Academy/Coursera license. We strongly recommend you complete and earn free certificates for as many courses as you like, during the entire period of the program.

Contact us for more information AR