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Artificial Intelligence: Foundations for Practice and Research – January 2026

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Artificial Intelligence: Foundations for Practice and Research – January 2026

Artificial Intelligence: Foundations for Practice and Research is a nationwide online training programme developed by TechUPTraining and funded by EPSRC. Delivered in January 2026 it was designed for graduates from any discipline, resident in the UK who are curious about the world of artificial intelligence, with priority places available for those from under-served communities. 

What did the course involve?

Artificial Intelligence: Foundations for Practice and Research is an intensive 8-week training programme delivered through a combination of:  

  • Weekly live online learning, two hours per week
  • Independent study
  • Group mentoring
  • Peer support system
  • Monthly newsletter
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What will I gain

Throughout the course, you’ll explore the origins and foundational concepts of AI, including its historical development and philosophical questions such as “What is intelligence?”. You’ll explore key topics like ethics, bias, and responsible AI, gaining insight into current regulatory frameworks and societal impacts. Two dedicated sessions on machine learning will introduce you to various algorithm types and models. You’ll get hands-on experience working with datasets, building your own models, and applying no-code machine learning techniques in practice. 

The course also highlights how AI is being used across disciplines, showcasing cutting-edge developments in both industry and academia. You’ll learn about industry-informed practices, discover exciting career paths, and explore research opportunities, including how to apply for an EPSRC funded PhD. Plus, you’ll gain practical experience with a range of current AI tools and discover how to enhance your career potential with excellent everyday use of AI with prompt engineering frameworks. 

As well as access to first class learning TechUPTraining also provides an online learning environment, peer support community and option group mentoring to ensure our learners get the personal support they need to complete the programme. 

Topics included:

  • Origins and Foundational Concepts of AI
  • Ethics, Bias and Responsisble AI
  • Machine Learning
  • AI in Industry
  • AI in Academia
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Why study with TechUPTraining

TechUP works to empower the under-served and improve diversity in the tech sector. In line with this mission, the programme has been designed specifically to be flexible for the diverse needs of under-served communities, including a choice of session times and a peer support community.  

TechUPTraining programmes are developed closely with employers so not only will you be able to access live online lectures from some of the very best tutors in the UK, the course will also offer workshops and group mentoring with industry and academic mentors to further enhance your learning journey, as well as support through our peer support community. 

Applications are open now for our next intake of Artificial Intelligence: Foundations for Practice and Research delivered by TechUPWomen