The prestigious Indian Institute of Technology Bombay (IIT Bombay) has announced the launch of a new professional certificate programme focused on artificial intelligence. The Shailesh J. Mehta School of Management (SJMSoM) at IIT Bombay is rolling out this initiative in collaboration with the ed-tech platform Great Learning.
Programme Details and Target Audience
This is a four-month online course designed specifically for experienced professionals. The programme is set to commence in January 2026, and the registration process is currently open for eligible candidates. The primary audience includes mid to senior-level professionals, established business leaders, and entrepreneurs who aim to integrate AI into their organisational strategy.
Upon successful completion, participants will be awarded a certificate of completion from IIT Bombay. This credential is intended to formally recognise an individual's preparedness to spearhead and manage AI-driven projects and transformations within their companies.
Curriculum and Industry Focus
The course structure is built to provide a comprehensive understanding of AI in a business context. It starts with core modules that lay the foundational knowledge. These modules cover essential topics such as developing leadership skills for an AI-ready environment, understanding Generative AI and intelligent agents, formulating business strategies led by AI, and establishing ethical and responsible AI-first organisations.
The final segment of the programme offers a practical, hands-on component. Here, participants can choose a specialisation relevant to their specific industry sector. They will work on detailed case studies pertinent to that field, allowing them to gain actionable insights and apply their learning directly to real-world challenges they face.
Expert Insights on the Programme's Vision
Prof. Rajendra Sonar from IIT Bombay explained the programme's objective. He stated that it is crafted to empower leaders to comprehend the profound influence of AI technologies on every aspect of a business—from strategic planning and daily operations to long-term sustainable growth. A significant part of the curriculum is also dedicated to helping leaders critically evaluate both the immense potential and the associated risks of AI implementation.
Echoing this sentiment, Mohan Lakhamraju, Founder and CEO of Great Learning, highlighted the collaborative effort behind the course. He emphasised that the programme seamlessly blends rigorous academic theory from IIT Bombay with practical, industry-relevant knowledge. Lakhamraju noted that effective leadership in today's AI era demands more than just technical understanding; it requires strategic foresight and the capability to not only guide but also successfully scale AI adoption across an entire organisation.
Eligibility Criteria and How to Apply
Interested candidates must meet specific criteria to enrol in this executive education programme. Applicants are required to hold a Bachelor's degree in any discipline from a recognised university. They must have secured a minimum aggregate score of 50% or an equivalent CGPA. Additionally, a minimum of three years of professional work experience is mandatory, ensuring a peer-level learning environment.
All detailed information regarding the course syllabus, fee structure, and the online application portal is available on the official registration website. Prospective participants can visit www.mygreatlearning.com/iit-bombay-certificate-leadership-with-ai to begin their registration process.
This programme marks a significant step by a premier Indian institution to bridge the gap between rapid AI advancement and the strategic leadership required to harness it effectively in the corporate world.
