AI fundamentals for Earth systems

Microcredential
Online
delivery
Introductory
level
3
courses

Artificial intelligence allows humans to gather and interpret data about the environment in powerful new ways. However, this technology also consumes vast amounts of energy and materials. When you earn an AI fundamentals for Earth systems microcredential online from Oregon State University, you’ll learn how to use AI to protect the planet without placing excessive strain on its resources.

Learn about AI from a general, non-coding perspective — exploring how today’s tools were designed and developed, and the ethical considerations that guide their use. Through hands-on activities, you’ll investigate the environmental impact of emerging technologies and study critical topics such as AI and climate change, water management and resource optimization. You’ll be equipped to turn AI insights into sustainable action for the planet.

Coursework (9 credits)

This is an introductory-level microcredential that is designed for those with no previous experience in a subject. These offerings will help you build a strong foundation in this discipline. Introductory microcredentials might occasionally require some prerequisite college courses.

Not all courses are currently available in the schedule of classes. Check back later for course details.

Prerequisite courses

Prerequisite courses

Before you enroll in the microcredential courses listed above, you must complete certain prerequisites. 

To enroll in PHL 131:

  • AI 100 – AI for Everyone (3)
*Note: AI 100 can be taken concurrently with PHL 131.

 

Explore Oregon State’s AI microcredentials

This is one microcredential within a suite of AI-related offerings from Oregon State, an initiative that — regardless of your career interests — enables you to upskill and explore how AI tools can be used ethically within a specific industry. Learn more about OSU’s collection of AI microcredentials.

Mountain landscape with snow peaks and winding river highlighting Earth's diverse natural environments.

Skills you’ll gain

The in-demand skills you'll develop as a student in this microcredential will give you what you need to stand out and level up in your career.

  • Environmental impact assessment
  • Environmental systems problem-solving
  • Sustainable AI strategy design
  • Technology ethics
  • Power dynamics in technology
  • Values-based decision making
  • Machine learning concepts

Additional details

Oregon State microcredentials consist of at least three courses and 8 credits that follow OSU’s quarterly term calendar. All microcredentials are delivered online and some microcredentials may be offered on campus. All course credits used to complete a microcredential must be completed at Oregon State and transfer credit and placement tests may not be used toward microcredential course credits. Read other important microcredential details » 

Microcredentials allow you to gain specialized skills in focused subject areas in less time than it takes to complete a full degree or certificate program. Typically, you can complete a microcredential in nine to 12 months. All microcredential courses follow the same term schedule as on-campus courses and are not self-paced. Learn more about course delivery methods »

Once you complete all classes in this microcredential, you'll receive a digital badge from Oregon State University. You can add the digital badge to your résumé and on LinkedIn, GitHub or other social media profiles. It provides employers with proof of the skills and discipline-specific knowledge you gained from the microcredential. Oregon State's digital badges are issued by Credly, the world's largest digital credential network.

Completing a microcredential is dependent on course availability, term offerings, course sequencing and any required prerequisites. Connect with the OSU Ecampus enrollment services team to better understand when courses in this microcredential are delivered to help you create a timeline for application and enrollment. You can also explore the schedule of classes to preview course availability.

  • Apply to earn a microcredential as a current student: If you’re a current OSU student interested in pursuing a microcredential online, please submit this form. Note: You must complete at least one of the microcredential courses after having been accepted into the microcredential.

You can find detailed tuition information for microcredential offerings on the tuition rates webpage. Please note: If you are pursuing a standalone microcredential as a nondegree student, you will not qualify for federal financial aid.

If you are pursuing a microcredential as a current student in an OSU degree or certificate program, you will be charged your program's tuition rate (if differential tuition is applicable). 

Earning a microcredential is a great way to develop a skill set that current and future employers are looking for. If your employer offers a tuition benefit program, you may be able to enroll online with Oregon State and receive a tuition scholarship that makes your student experience more affordable. You can also learn about the organizations OSU collaborates with to offer direct tuition benefit programs for online learners.