Artificial intelligence is no longer a future concept. It is already part of everyday work, from drafting emails and summarizing information to supporting customer service and decision-making. As expectations shift, more people are looking to learn how to use AI in their jobs.

Yet many AI courses are still built for students pursuing four-year or graduate degrees and often assume a technical or computer science background. For working adults, parents and career changers, those pathways are often unrealistic.

Closing the Gap in AI Education

If artificial intelligence is to be a basic workplace skill, education must be accessible to the people expected to use it. That means focusing on applied skills, flexibility and affordability so students can apply the skills they learn right away.

Two-year colleges will play a critical role in expanding access to this education. They serve students balancing work, family and other responsibilities while preparing for immediate career advancement.

Artificial Intelligence for Business – Not Computer Science

At Generations College, AI education is built around everyday business use. The college offers a Business Administration associate degree with an emphasis in Artificial Intelligence for students who want practical experience without pursuing a traditional computer science degree.

The program teaches students how to use AI tools in real business setting for organizing information, improving communication, conducting research and streamlining routine tasks. Students also learn how to assess AI-generated content for accuracy, bias and reliability.

No prior technical background or programming experience is required. AI is integrated into business coursework, so students learn it alongside management, communication and entrepreneurship skills.

As AI continues to shape the workforce, access to artificial intelligence education will determine who benefits from new opportunities.

“AI is becoming a basic workplace skill, not a specialized technical discipline,” said Dr. Grace Alexis, Chancellor of Generations College. “If we want equity in the future economy, we have to make AI education accessible to working adults, parents and students who have traditionally been excluded from emerging technologies.”

Practical, affordable programs can help working adults stay competitive, support entrepreneurs and strengthen local communities.

Designed for Real Lives

Generations College has served Chicago students for more than 121 years, with a mission rooted in access and student support. Small class sizes allow instructors to provide individualized guidance, while flexible online options make it possible to balance education with work and family life.

Visit our web page to learn more about the Business Administration associate degree with an emphasis in Artificial Intelligence.

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Some students make the mistake of selecting a college simply because their best friend is attending the school. Others pick a school just because it is close to home or they think the price tag is attractive. While you should certainly consider schools’ locations and costs, there’s another key factor you should arguably put above all others — your intended major.

Your major is the reason you’re going to college in the first place. It only makes sense to be deliberate about picking a college that has a strong program and reputation for educating students in that major field.

EVALUATING COLLEGES’ STRENGTHS IN YOUR INTENDED MAJOR

Looking closely at how a potential college choice stacks up against the competition takes some effort, but the results can be well worth your time. Here are tips and factors to consider as you evaluate colleges:

1. Do some initial research. You can get a lot of information about colleges online today. Start by visiting the college’s official website to explore the school and its major offerings in its own words. Then, look at general search engine results as well as third-party sites that rank and score colleges on various criteria.
2. Explore requirements. Make sure the major you are considering concentrates on what you want. Can you commit to meeting program requirements? When you have narrowed your college search to just a few schools, evaluate their curriculum goals, number of credit hours needed to obtain your degree, and graduate placement data. Consider also whether you meet any prerequisites for the major course of study.
3. Talk to people. Your next step should be asking for information and feedback from people who know the school you are contemplating first-hand: current students, alumni and professors at the school. Colleges you are considering should be willing to put you in touch with such resources if you ask for them, so don’t be shy. If you are in high school, career counselors can provide invaluable insight into different college options. College admissions offices also have a wealth of information to share with prospective students, to help them make informed decisions.

IS GENERATIONS COLLEGE RIGHT FOR YOU? EXPLORE OUR MAJORS

Even if a potential college checks all of your other requirements, you likely won’t get the education or experience you deserve if that school does not offer your intended major. You may end up settling for a different course of study rather than chasing your dreams.

The right school for your neighbor, best friend or significant other might not be the best fit for you. That’s why you owe it to yourself to choose a school that offers and specializes in your intended major. To explore the degree programs available through Generations College in Chicago, contact us today for more information.

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1. Accreditation: Look for a college that is accredited. Accreditation means you’ll be able to take advantage of federal financial aid, obtain employer tuition reimbursement (if your employer offers it), and have better job prospects after graduation.
2. Employment prospects after graduation: Evaluate the college’s graduation placement rate. How likely is it that you will be able to get a job in your chosen field within six months after graduation? Consider how well-connected the college is to the business community.
3. Location and environment: Let’s face it, you will be spending a lot of time at the college you choose. You should visit prospective colleges to get a feel for the size and layout. Some students thrive in a large college environment while others prefer smaller colleges. You should also consider how convenient the school’s location is, especially if you will be working while pursuing your degree.
4. Quality of faculty: Look for a college that recognizes the importance of hiring faculty who truly understand and have real-world experience in their chosen fields. When you’re able to learn from people who have been in, and are connected to, the industry you want to get into, you’ll be better prepared to enter the workforce after graduating.
5. Academic support: Choose a college that offers student support services designed to help students succeed. Also consider the student-to-faculty ratio. There can be tremendous benefit in choosing a college with smaller class sizes, because you’ll have a greater opportunity to learn.
6. Cost and financial aid availability: Consider what your degree will cost you. College tuition and fees can vary greatly from one institution to the next, so confirm what the price tag will be before making a decision. You should also evaluate your options for paying for college. Find out what type of financial aid the college offers, and what percentage of students receive aid to help cover the cost.
7. Hands-on learning opportunities: Similarly, consider how the college approaches teaching coursework in the program you want to pursue. Earning credits entirely through classroom lectures can give you the basic knowledge you need, but you might struggle figuring out how to apply that knowledge when you get your first job after graduation. Look for a college that offers hands-on learning — including internship and externship opportunities.
8. Program flexibility: You should also consider how flexible, or inflexible, the college is when it comes to earning your degree. This is particularly important for busy adults who have other work and family commitments. Some colleges, including Generations College, offer students the opportunity to earn their degrees entirely through online learning, as well as offering classes at times that are more convenient for working adults.
9. Diversity and inclusion: Is the school you are considering committed to attracting and retaining students and faculty from diverse backgrounds? Choosing a college that is committed to fostering diversity and inclusion can give you the opportunity to learn more from your fellow students.
10. Extracurricular activities: Finally, remember that your college experience should be about more than just the classes you need to earn your degree. Consider the number and types of student activities, clubs and organizations the college offers.

There is no one-size-fits-all college solution, but evaluating these factors can help narrow your choices so you can take the next step toward your future. To learn more about Generations College and to explore our degree programs, call (312) 922-1884 today.

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1. CHOOSING A MAJOR SETS YOUR CAREER

Many individuals enter college without a definite decision about where they want to end up. It’s OK to enroll in your college education without choosing a major right away. Chances are good you will change your goals as you go through your education anyway.

2. THE COLLEGE EXPERIENCE IS ESSENTIAL

Some people believe the college experience portrayed in movies is authentic — generally, it is not. Many of today’s students live at home or near the campus. You can go to college and continue or pursue other commitments. That is, the college experience is flexible.

3. STEM OFFERS THE BEST JOBS

Science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) careers are very popular, and they are an area to consider if you are interested in science and technology. However, there are many well-paying, satisfying jobs outside this field. If STEM is not for you, you can still find an exceptional career path. Don’t believe the misconception that STEM is a surefire way to get a good job. Not everyone ends up working for the top tech brands.

4. CHOOSING COLLEGE MEANS PUTTING FAMILY ON HOLD

Many men and women put years of their lives on hold while they go to college. For women, for example, choosing to go to college does not mean you have to give anything up. You can enroll in a two-year college program, secure a fantastic position in a business you love, and build your family along the way. In short, college is flexible enough to allow you to have a life you want without waiting.

5. GOING TO A SMALL SCHOOL MEANS FEWER JOB OPPORTUNITIES

This is a misconception that has been around for many years. The truth is, countless companies turn to local community colleges and smaller schools to recruit the top talent they need. A two-year school can help you get the skills you need to enter a fantastic career at the company you want, without limitations. A large school on your resume does not help you land that job.

6. ATTENDING A SCHOOL THAT COSTS MORE MEANS YOU’RE GETTING A BETTER EDUCATION

To be frank, just like any brand in a retail store, not all colleges and universities have a price tag that reflects their true quality. It is possible to find an affordable school that gives you all the tools and access to the career path you want. You could spend thousands of dollars on a large, prestigious school but walk away without a job. Look deeper — what makes the school a better fit for you?

7. YOU CAN’T GET FINANCIAL AID FOR SMALLER SCHOOLS

Here’s the good news — this is false! There are numerous ways to pay for your college education. You do not have to enroll in a four-year college to qualify either. There is a misconception that you cannot get financial aid, scholarships, grants and other options if you are attending less than full time. You can! Find more information through your counselor’s office.

8. THE SCHOOL’S NAME MATTERS MOST

On your resume, your potential employer is looking at you and what you can bring to the table. He or she cares much less about the school you attended than the degree you earned. In fact, if your degree could have been obtained in two years at a more focused school, this may look better than that four-year school’s degree.

9. YOU WILL NOT GET YOUR MONEY’S WORTH

Going to college is a financial commitment. Regardless, the information, insight, experience and networking opportunities you get here define your success. Simply, your education pays for itself on day one. If you are thinking about enrolling but unsure if it is the right path for you, take a closer look at what your school can offer.

College myths like these may convince you that getting an education is hard to do. It does not have to be. The right school and program options can help empower you to achieve your biggest goals and dreams no matter where you are starting right now.

If you’re interested in learning more about one of our programs fill out the form to the right of this page or click this link to Contact Us. 

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