Overview

The Deploying AI microcredential provides learners with applied skills to move AI models, especially large language models, from experimentation into real-world production environments, a rapidly growing need across sectors. 

Deploying machine learning models effectively is essential for unlocking their value in real-world applications, from automating workflows to enabling decision-making and improving user experiences. This credential equips learners with practical knowledge in fine-tuning, optimizing, and scaling models responsibly, while addressing performance, reliability, and ethical risks. Real-world examples and toolsets prepare participants to contribute meaningfully to AI integration in industry, government, and research settings, supporting career growth in the fast-evolving field of applied AI. 

This microcredential is designed for past participants of the DSI Data Science and Machine Learning Certificate who are ready to build on their foundational training by learning how to deploy machine learning models in real-world environments. 

It is also open to non-Certificate learners who meet the pre-requisites and want to gain practical skills in moving models from experimentation to production. Whether you’re aiming to contribute to applied research projects or work in industry, this microcredential offers a hands-on introduction to deployment tools, infrastructure, and workflows. No prior experience with deployment infrastructure is required. 

This microcredential is designed for participants who have: 

• Basic-to-intermediate level Python Programming: candidates should be comfortable using functions, control structures (if/else, while, for loops, etc), and data structures (Pandas, Python dictionaries, etc.). 

• SQL Programming: simple queries are sufficient. 
• Shell commands: experience running Shell commands and scripts to navigate file directories and modify files.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) has emerged as a key foundation of applications that can be used to deliver considerable value. In this module, we focus on how to apply Large Language Models (LLMs) to build applications. We begin with a brief overview of LLMs and then focus on how to consistently evaluate their outputs. Learners will explore how recent advances in AI can be applied to solve real-world problems.    

Learning outcomes: By the end of this microcredential, participants will be able to:  

• Explain the core concepts involved in designing, building, and deploying AI systems.  

• Outline the AI application development lifecycle, from concept to deployment.  

• Evaluate and select appropriate models, datasets, and benchmarks for specific tasks.  

• Apply and compare model adaptation techniques, including prompting, fine-tuning, RAG, and agent frameworks.  

• Assess open-ended model performance using qualitative and quantitative evaluation strategies.  

• Identify and address latency, cost, and scaling challenges in deploying AI applications.  

 The microcredential modules are offered live, online over a three-week period. 

• Three days a week for 2.5 hours/day; Tuesday – Thursday 6 – 8:30 PM 

• Optional support and facilitated work periods with learning support staff: half an hour before and after class, and Fridays 1-2:30 pm. Participants are able to have their questions answered or get help with assignments (no new material presented).  

• This microcredential features an industry case study, giving participants a firsthand look at how AI deployment challenges are approached in real-world settings. This applied perspective helps bridge the gap between technical training and practical implementation, and offers insight into the workflows, trade-offs, and decisions faced by professionals deploying AI at scale. 

Evaluation: Completion of this microcredential is evaluated based on whether a participant has achieved its learning outcomes via successful completion of assignments and quizzes. 

Cost: The cost for the microcredential is $650.  

Learners that have completed the DSI Data Science or Machine Learning Software Foundations Certificates can register for a subsidized price of $475 with the financial support of Upskill Canada, powered by Palette Skills and the Government of Canada.  

Within four to six weeks of successful completion, you will receive your microcredential badge indicating achievement of the outlined learning outcomes and competencies/skills. Microcredentials are tamper proof, verifiable, blockchain-based and 100% digital. They can be included on your resume and shared on social media, such as LinkedIn and Facebook.

The Data Sciences Institute  is a University of Toronto hub and incubator for data science research, training, and partnerships. The DSI’s mission is to provide leadership and capacity to catalyze the transformative nature of data sciences across a broad range of disciplines.