AI Certifications Are Everywhere - Here's How to Spot the One That Builds Skills

Akash Saini — Mon, 15 Jun 2026 12:23:29 +0000

I decided to take an online AI and ML post-graduation course during my graduation from Amity. When I started comparing some programmes, three names stood out: IIT Kharagpur's Applied AI & ML EPGC, Simplilearn, and Great Learning.

Simplilearn - Modular, tool-focused Generative AI programs (like the Applied GenAI program with Microsoft Azure) offering flexible, business-relevant projects across separate short courses.

Great Learning - University-backed PG programs (with UT Austin McCombs, Johns Hopkins, etc.) covering Python through Generative AI with mentorship, though depth varies by track.

IIT Kharagpur's Applied AI & ML EPGC - An 8-month, 100% live programme run entirely by IIT KGP's own AI department, covering ML, Deep Learning, NLP, GenAI, Agentic AI, RAG, and MLOps with 6 projects and a capstone.

I went for IIT KGP Online…
After comparing the real-life experiences and curriculum, for me, what makes this programme different is that it isn't a patchwork of borrowed modules; it's a complete 8-month journey designed and delivered by IIT KGP's own AI department, with every concept taught alongside real-world deployment.

Everyone Said Learn AI. I Did. Here's What Nobody Tells You About Where to Start

Akash Saini — Wed, 20 May 2026 09:34:25 +0000

AI literacy is not just a bonus skill that you learn. In 2026, AI is the standard baseline in the Industry. From automating workflows to building intelligent systems, professionals who choose not to develop their AI skills risk being left behind. So, it’s no longer a matter of whether to upskill; it's where to upskill.

Here are the Four Platforms I Explored:
YouTube: Free and vast. But it lacks structure. Excellent for learning but not in-depth.
Udemy: Affordable one-time courses with decent content. However, it lacks mentorship and credentials, and it has no accountability.
Coursera: Strong university partnerships and certifications.
However, courses seem to be more academic than real-world based, and may be too slow for working professionals.
upGrad: Industry-focused AI programs with mentorship, live sessions, and career support built in.

My Honest Take
Each platform has merit depending on your goal. YouTube works if you're curious. Udemy is fine for specific technical skills on a budget. Coursera suits those who value academic credibility. upGrad is for those who want more than a certificate, a career-focused experience designed around real working professionals.

But after comparing all four, I find myself leaning toward upGrad, particularly for AI courses. The combination of structured learning, access to mentors, industry-relevant projects, and active student support makes it the most comprehensive package for someone serious about an AI career, not just about collecting certificates.

If you're ready to commit to real growth in AI, upGrad offers the ecosystem that others simply don't.

DEV Community: Akash Saini

AI Certifications Are Everywhere - Here's How to Spot the One That Builds Skills

Everyone Said Learn AI. I Did. Here's What Nobody Tells You About Where to Start