NJIT Launches AI Microcredential to Drive AI Literacy, Ethical Practices

New Jersey Institute of Technology (NJIT) will now offer an AI Literacy Microcredential that provides foundational knowledge and skills to thrive in an era shaped by artificial intelligence. The microcredential is designed to ensure that graduates are AI-literate, ethical in AI use and capable of leveraging AI tools effectively across various disciplines.

Launching in spring 2025 through NJIT’s Learning and Development Initiative (LDI), the microcredential features ten non-credit two-hour courses and will be available free of charge to all NJIT students — regardless of level and major — and to the general public for a fee.

The AI Literacy Microcredential is based off of NJIT-developed AI Core Competencies. The standards — developed by a multidisciplinary team of experts — emphasize practical applications of AI, ethical considerations and adaptability, enabling students to address real-world challenges and opportunities. From health care and engineering to the arts and business, the program’s interdisciplinary approach positions NJIT graduates to make meaningful contributions in a world marked by AI-driven innovation.

“NJIT is at the vanguard of higher education institutions that are responding to and shaping the future of artificial intelligence,” said NJIT Provost and Senior Vice President for Academic Affairs John Pelesko. “By developing AI Core Competencies, NJIT has outlined the skills and knowledge all students will need as they graduate and launch their career in today’s rapidly evolving technological landscape.”

Nikki Bosca, Director of NJIT’s new Center for Educational Innovation and Excellence (CEIE) co-chaired the AI Core Competencies working group and highlighted the significance of the standards: "These competencies go beyond technical literacy—they establish a foundation for understanding the ethical, societal, and interdisciplinary impacts of AI. Our graduates will not only be adept at using AI tools but also at questioning and improving them, ensuring their applications are transparent, equitable, and beneficial to society."

With its focus on lifelong learning, critical evaluation and ethical responsibility, the AI Literacy Microcredential embodies NJIT’s mission to foster innovation and excellence. For more information and to register, visit https://ldi.njit.edu/ai-literacy-microcredential.