It is not surprising that AI is a growing, rapidly evolving field of study.
In fact, “AI and education: Preserving human agency in a world of automation” was chosen as the 2025 International Day of Education theme to inspire reflections on the power of education to equip individuals and communities navigate, understand and influence AI technological advancement.
Parisa Pouladzadeh, professor and program coordinator of AI Graduate Program at Humber, shared with me how Humber FAST programs are highlighting the importance of AI in education and how future leaders can use artificial intelligence effectively.
Parisa Pouladzadeh, professor and program coordinator of AI Graduate Program
Began Pouladzadeh, “In alignment with global initiatives like the UN’s efforts to promote ethical and accessible AI, Humber is investing in cutting-edge AI infrastructure and equipment to support our academic and research community. This infrastructure not only enables learners and researchers to develop expertise using sovereign public data models and AI tools but also provides valuable resources for our local community.”
“By fostering innovation, reducing reliance on expensive commercial tools, and creating accessible AI solutions,” added Pouladzadeh, “Humber is committed to empowering learners with the skills they need to succeed in emerging fields while driving meaningful impact in local communities.”
“By staying proactive and leveraging industry innovations, students can secure their operations and position themselves for growth in a rapidly evolving digital landscape,” stated Pouladzadeh.
Humber Meets AI Demand
“At Humber, we understand that AI is more than just a technical tool—it’s a transformative force that intersects with ethics, governance, and human interaction,” said Pouladzadeh. “This philosophy is reflected in programs like our newly launched AI Integration & Governance graduate certificate, which equips learners with the skills to integrate AI into organizational strategies responsibly, balancing innovation with accountability and transparency.”
Added Pouladzadeh, “AI’s transformative potential extends beyond technical applications, and Humber is leading the way by embedding AI into a wide array of disciplines. From specialized programs like Cybersecurity and Artificial Intelligence and AI Integration & Governance to micro-credentials such as Artificial Intelligence for Digital Marketing and Communications and the AI for Professionals program offered by the Longo’s Faculty of Business, we prepare students and professionals to apply AI in innovative and ethical ways.”
I asked Pouladzadeh to explain how AI is being taught and to elaborate on a few course offerings, as examples.
“Humber Polytechnic prepares students for the rapid evolution of AI by embedding digital fluency and lifelong learning into its curriculum,” responded Pouladzadeh.
“AI is seamlessly integrated across various programs, ensuring graduates have the skills to adapt to technological advancements in any industry. By emphasizing Humber Learning Outcomes, the institution cultivates a mindset that empowers students to harness AI-driven innovations,” explained Pouladzadeh.
“To meet the growing demand for AI education, Humber continuously evolves its curriculum, collaborates with industry leaders, and invests in faculty development. Its commitment is to equip students with the expertise and confidence to navigate technological transformations and tackle emerging challenges head-on,” said Pouladzadeh.
Pouladzadeh outlined for me two Graduate Certificate programs on offer for students eager to learn AI:
1. Artificial Intelligence with Machine Learning – “This program is designed for students with a background in computer science, mathematics, computer engineering, or programming. It provides comprehensive training in machine learning algorithm design across various fields, including machine vision, natural language processing, AI-driven decision-making, machine learning engineering, and data analytics.”
2. AI Integration and Governance (AI for Everyone) – “This newly introduced program is tailored for students from diverse backgrounds. It covers foundational concepts in data analytics and machine learning while equipping students with the skills to apply AI tools and applications based on their prior knowledge and expertise.”
“Both programs,” suggested Pouladzadeh, “are designed to prepare students with the essential skills needed to succeed in the rapidly evolving field of AI.”
“We know that students in our programs are focused on how AI can impact real-world challenges as shown through their capstone projects,” shared Pouladzadeh. “We are confident that the high-quality polytechnic education provided at Humber with an emphasis on theoretical and hands-on learning will continue to position Humber as a destination for students interested in AI.”
Added Francis Syms, P.Eng, Associate Dean, Information & Communications Technology at Humber, “Humber courses use these initiatives to ensure graduates are equipped not only to design and implement AI solutions but also to navigate the ethical and human-centred dimensions of AI adoption, fostering trust and integrity across industries.”
Pouladzadeh further shared how AI education is permeating other faculties and courses.
“Micro-credentials such as Artificial Intelligence for Digital Marketing and Communications and the AI for Professionals program offered by the Longo’s Faculty of Business, will prepare students and professionals to apply AI in innovative and ethical ways,” explained Pouladzadeh.
“By integrating AI into business, technology, and education, Humber ensures learners are equipped to address challenges like data privacy, digital ethics, and equitable implementation,” added Pouladzadeh.
Student Interest in AI
“AI is certainly an emerging market, with great job prospects,” remarked Pouladzadeh. “Students expect that AI learning has a place in how they learn and will influence careers and how they work both in their studies and on the job.”
“Humber engages with students through various channels, including Open House events, graduate fairs, social media, email outreach and more,” said Pouladzadeh. “We aim to be accessible to prospective students in multiple ways, striving to connect with them wherever they may be.”
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