Why study this program?

Build targeted AI and Health skills. Ranked #2 in Canada for AI research. 100% online.

The online Graduate Certificate in AI and Health is designed primarily for working and aspiring health professionals, health researchers, computer scientists and engineers, policymakers, health leaders and health administrators who want to build in-demand AI literacy and apply it to real-world health systems. 

This four-course program provides a flexible pathway for working professionals and those pivoting into new fields to develop foundational knowledge in the strategic application, responsible use, ethical governance, critical evaluation and real-world integration of AI in the health system, addressing the urgent need for an AI-literate workforce in a strained health system.

Why Choose This Program?

AI and Health Skills - Rapidly Expanding Job Market

• AI and big data are the #1 fastest-growing skills in demand through 2030
• AI and Health are seen as one of the biggest growth opportunities in decades
• Labour market indicators show Artificial Intelligence as one of the top 20 skills in demand across all job postings

Sources: Gray DI’s Foundations of Academic Program Evaluation Webinar 2025, World Economic Forum Future of Jobs Report 2025 

Learn From The Global Leader in AI and Health

The U of A is a top Canadian University in AI research and #5 globally in AI research — and is home to one of the most established AI ecosystems in the world. The U of A’s health and medical sciences is rated in the top 100 in the world with the newly created AI + Health Hub positioned to build on these strengths. 

Stand out with Canada’s only graduate-level AI and Health certificate — providing you a distinct competitive edge in the rapidly evolving health ecosystem.

Flexible Delivery, Accelerated Completion  

Designed for working professionals from all sectors, anywhere. Advance your career by completing four (4) seven-week online courses. Courses have an asynchronous delivery — providing you with flexibility through self-paced content and optional real-time virtual connection. Complete the certificate in as few as two (2) academic terms.

Accessible Entry into AI and Health - No Technical Background Required

This program removes traditional barriers to entry with no technical background (no prior background in coding, mathematics or data science) or minimum GPA required for application. 

This program is intentionally designed for learners from all disciplines with consideration of prior learning or professional experience. The program supports learners who may be returning to school after time in the workforce or transitioning from non-technical fields, while ensuring the academic rigour and quality expected of a graduate credential.

Real-World Application and Innovative Delivery

Using case studies and interdisciplinary perspectives, students will apply AI to real clinical and public health contexts, preparing them to navigate and influence the evolving health and AI landscape. Experience engaging, interactive content that brings AI and health education to life in a world-class digital environment.

Who Should Apply?

• Current or aspiring health professionals, health leaders or health administrators.
• Recent and soon-to-be graduates from health-related programs.
• Those looking to improve their foundational AI literacy.
• Those seeking to use AI to create efficiencies within their workplace.
• Learners who completed their undergraduate degrees outside Canada, either in technical or non-technical fields, seeking to reorient or upgrade their AI and health skills.

What You’ll Learn

• Integrate foundational concepts of artificial intelligence, machine learning and health systems to examine digital health technologies in evolving healthcare environments.
• Critically evaluate the ethical, regulatory and governance frameworks, including mechanisms of Indigenous data sovereignty, to ensure the responsible, equitable and secure implementation of AI in diverse health settings.
• Apply interdisciplinary AI-driven approaches and real-world health data to support, implement and deploy ethical AI solutions for complex healthcare problems.
• Advocate for the strategic integration and responsible adoption of AI within health systems to enhance patient care, reduce health inequities and optimize health data and information quality.
• Engage effectively with interdisciplinary and interprofessional teams to address complex challenges at the intersection of AI and health.

Program Structure

Earn your certificate by completing the required four (4) online courses for a total of 12 credits. Each course has a scheduled start and end date and is seven (7) weeks in length. These courses are fast-paced and move quickly. Students can expect to spend approximately 15 - 20 hours per week on coursework. The program can be completed in as little as eight (8) months (only for Fall start), but students can take up to four (4) years to complete the credential. 

The courses for the certificate are: 

• HLTH 500: Foundations of AI and Health: Contemporary Topics 
• HLTH 501: Using AI Responsibly: Governing AI in Health 
• HLTH 502: Strategic AI: Revolutionizing Health Decisions 
• HLTH 503: The Future of Health: AI Integration and Transformation 

HLTH 500 must be taken first. HLTH 501, 502 and 503 can be completed in any order. It is highly recommended that HLTH 503 be taken as the final course in the certificate, as students will be applying concepts learned throughout the program. The certificate will be completed by taking one course at a time, ensuring a manageable workload.

Important Timelines

Applications are now open! Students can begin in Fall or Winter.

Fall 2026 Admission

• Fall Application Deadline: August 15, 2026
• Fall Program Start: September 1, 2026

Winter 2027 Admission
Applications Open: August 25, 2026
Applications Close: December 15, 2026

Limited spots available. Apply today to secure your place and join a global community of learners and changemakers.