Full course description
This course will run from March 22-April 11, 2027
Registration Deadline: Registrations will be accepted through March 22, 2027. Detailed instructions for enrolling with Canvas Catalog can be found at this link. If you have any questions regarding enrollment or this course, please contact ocpe@vcu.edu for assistance.
Description: Building on conceptual literacy, this noncredit online, asynchronous course focuses on applied workplace use of AI tools. Participants learn how to structure prompts, conduct research and synthesis, design productivity workflows, and generate insights aligned with organizational expectations. The emphasis is on repeatable, reliable practices rather than advanced technical systems.
Who Should Enroll
Administrative staff, analysts, advisors, project managers, early-career professionals, and others seeking practical AI integration.
Course Outcomes
- Use AI for research, writing, productivity
- Structure prompts for reliable results
- Create repeatable workplace workflows
Course Requirements
Participants are required to have access to an AI tool of their choice. A paid subscription is strongly recommended.
Instructor:
Derek O'Leary, Assistant Professor, Website and Social Media Liaison, Robertson School of Communication
Discounts: An early registration discount is available through October 30, 2026. Use code EARLY261 for a 10% discount.
Discounts are also available for military and VCU alumni, faculty and staff. Please email ocpe@vcu.edu to obtain your coupon code prior to registration. Any available coupon codes must be used/applied at the time of enrollment, cannot be combined with other discounts/coupons or waivers, and will not be retroactively applied.
Cancellation and Refund Policies: Refunds will be accepted up to 1 week before course start date. In the unlikely event that this workshop is cancelled or postponed due to insufficient enrollments or unforeseen circumstances, the university will fully refund registration fees, but cannot be held responsible for any other expenses, including change or cancellation charges to include but not limited to airlines, hotels, travel agencies, or other organizations.
Student/Participant Conduct: Participants are subject to all university policies applicable to students, unless a specific university or VCU Continuing and Professional Education policy explicitly states otherwise. University policies governing students are available at https://vcu.public.doctract.com including:
Student Code of Conduct
Honor System and Standards of Academic Conduct
Preventing and Responding to Discrimination
Title IX Sexual Harassment Policy-Interim
Sex-Based Misconduct Policy-Interim
For Academic Accommodations, please visit https://ocpe.vcu.edu/resources/policies/