BCS Foundation Award – Generative AI

Generative AI is rapidly becoming one of the most exciting and influential technologies today. It can create realistic digital art, write sophisticated text, and enhance various business processes. As more organisations adopt AI solutions, understanding how generative AI works and how to use it is essential for individuals and organisations.

Who is this for?

  • Anyone who wants to learn more about using generative AI.
  • Individuals or organisations who want to ethically improve their efficiency with using generative AI, to meet the objectives of their role or their organisation’s aims.
  • This course could be particularly relevant for people in the following roles: content creators, designers, developers, project managers, product managers, copywriters, chief information officers, change practitioners, business consultants and leaders of people.

Entry requirements

There are no pre-requisites for entry to the exam.

What will I learn?

This award sits within the machine learning and other AI techniques area of the AI Foundation Pathway and offers an introduction into getting the best out of generative AI.

You’ll learn about:

  • The meaning of AI and generative AI, including its history and key principles.
  • The legal, ethical and regulatory considerations when using generative AI.
  • How humans can use generative AI to support business activities.
  • How to identify opportunities for generative AI and implement them.
  • The impact of generative AI on the future of society and business.

Download our latest syllabus (PDF)

This award contributes 3 credits towards the:

  • Foundation Certificate in AI (total credits required: 20)
  • Foundation Diploma in AI (total credits required: 36)

Other Machine learning and other AI techniques awards in the IA Foundation Pathway include:

How can I prepare for this award?

You can achieve this qualification through virtual or classroom training with a BCS-accredited training provider. As a guide, the estimated total qualification time for this award is 30 hours based around 29 hours of independent learning (if at a training provider, we recommend 8 hours of contact time, plus 21 hours of independent learning) and a 30-minute summative assessment. 

Classroom

Virtually

How do I take the exam?

Training and exam (recommended)

Take this course with one of our accredited training providers.

How long will it take?

Classroom courses normally last one day.

Where can I study?

The training provider will be able to advise you, but typical options include:

  • At an approved provider near you
  • At your computer via e-learning or web conference learning

How much does it cost?

Prices for courses vary depending on your chosen training provider, country and course format.

Find a provider

Exam only (self study)

Ideal if you’re self-motivated and already know something about generative AI, although we do recommend a training provider for this course.

How do I book an exam?

Call +44 (0)1793 417417 to book your exam.

How long will it take?

As a guide, the estimated total qualification time for this award is 30 hours based around 29.5 hours of independent learning (if at a training provider, we recommend 12 hours of contact time, plus 17.5 hours of independent learning) and a 30-minute summative assessment.

Where do I sit my exam?

If you’re studying for this qualification without a training provider you can sit this exam directly with BCS online.

How much does it cost?

UK price: £65 + £35 for exam remote proctor + VAT.
International prices may vary by region, please check international pricing via our Customer Service team.

Contact us on +44 (0)1793 417417

What's next?

Continue your journey on the AI Foundation Pathway. Build on your foundation learning and achieve the Foundation Certificate in AI by studying one award from each of the four key awards areas. Study eight awards across the four areas and you’ll achieve the Foundation Diploma in AI. Why not look at…

Data Awards

Learn how data enables AI to perform, how it’s cleaned, structured and stored - and specifically focusing on machine learning how to use data in the right way, work with security protocols and uphold good ethical practice. Choose from:

Understanding data in your organisation

Big data

Data visualisation

Ethics Awards

AI’s ability to learn, replicate and predict means it will have a considerable impact on society and our environment if we don’t approach it ethically, sustainably and with clear governance. This set of awards explores the impact of decision-making and is vital learning for any forward-thinking IT professional.

Understanding ethical principles in the IT profession

This qualification is not regulated by the following United Kingdom Regulators - Ofqual, Qualifications Wales, CCEA Regulation or SQA.