BRIDGEWATER, Va. (WHSV) – Bridgewater College will offer students a 12-credit certificate focused on AI literacy starting in fall 2026.
The certificate will dive into courses like prompt writing and the ethical use of artificial intelligence in the workforce. The college said the unprecedented rise and use of AI has caused the workplace to adapt quickly and students might be unprepared by the time they complete school.
Barbara Long, dean of the Nolen School of Business and Professional Studies at Bridgewater College, said there’s no way to fully understand what the workforce will look like with AI usage, but this certificate is a way for students to feel more connected to the software and equip them with the skills they need to use it.
“It’s important for us to make sure our students are not only prepared for careers happening today, but for careers for the future as well,” Long said. “There’s no way that we can identify every single thing the future might have to earn folks money or the skills they need. We can begin to build a literacy of tools like AI.”
Long highlighted the software’s ability to compile information, but noted the troubles and dangers of solely relying on AI as a reference. She said these classes will allow students to understand the usage of AI without diving into the technical details of the software.
According to the college, the certificate will be open to all students. No technical or coding background will be required for students to get the certificate. Long said students who have an interest in learning the foundational skills of AI usage could benefit from a program like this.
The program is offered in partnership with Rize Education. More information can be found on the college’s website.
Copyright 2026 WHSV. All rights reserved.
Leave a Reply