Program FAQs

• What is applied generative AI, and how is it different from theoretical generative AI research?

  Applied generative AI is about putting the technology to work. You build, test, and ship real solutions like chatbots, retrieval-augmented apps, and multimodal tools. Theoretical research sits on the other end. It focuses on advancing the underlying science, exploring new model architectures, and publishing findings. This program lives firmly on the applied side. You spend your time on 50+ hands-on demos and 12+ portfolio projects that take you from concept all the way to deployment.
  

• What is agentic AI, and how is it different from generative AI?

  Generative AI creates content. It writes text, generates images, and produces code in response to your prompts. Agentic AI goes a step further. It reasons, plans, and takes actions on its own to complete multi-step tasks, often coordinating several agents and connecting to live tools and data.
  

  Think of it this way: generative AI produces an answer, and agentic AI gets a job done. This program covers both. You start with generative AI foundations and progress to autonomous, multi-agent workflows.
  

• Do I need a programming or coding background to join this generative AI training?

  A basic understanding of programming concepts and math helps you get the most out of the program. You do not need to be an expert. The specialization opens with a Python bridge module that walks you through fundamentals, syntax, and core concepts, so you can build a solid foundation before the AI-focused work begins.
  

• Can I complete the agentic and generative AI course without the optional Python module?

  The Python module is a bridge. It exists to bring everyone to a shared starting point. If you already code confidently in Python, you can move through it quickly. If you are newer to programming, it builds the skills that later modules rely on, from building RAG apps to engineering autonomous agents.
  

• What is the refund or cancellation policy for this Applied Generative AI program?

  You're encouraged to finish the program to get its full value. Yes, you have to submit your refund request within 7 days of purchasing your course. To learn more, please read our Refund Policy.
  

• Are there any exams or assessments required to earn the certification?

  The program is project-led. You finish with an industry-aligned capstone that brings key concepts together into a portfolio-ready deliverable. Upon successful completion, you earn a joint Virginia Tech - Simplilearn digital badge with a downloadable certificate.
  

• What is the weekly time commitment for this generative AI course?

  Plan for roughly 7 to 9 hours a week. The full specialization runs for 12 weeks and includes 70+ learning hours, so you can pace yourself steadily
  

• Can I complete this generative AI training while working full-time?

  Yes. Classes are delivered live online, and the 7 to 9-hour weekly commitment is designed to fit around a working schedule. Plenty of learners upskill while holding down full-time roles.
  

• Is this generative AI course suitable for non-technical professionals or only developers?

  The program welcomes learners from a range of backgrounds. It is built for software engineers, application developers, data professionals, AI architects, and AI enthusiasts exploring the field from the basics. You will want a basic grasp of programming concepts and math going in, and the Python bridge module helps close any gaps. If you are non-technical but ready to learn the fundamentals, this program can meet you where you are.
  

• How is this applied generative AI program different from other online AI courses?

  A few things set it apart:

  • It covers both generative and agentic AI across 70+ hours, not just one or the other.
  • You practice with 50+ hands-on demos, 12+ portfolio projects, and 30+ industry tools, so you learn by building.
  • You move from concept to deployment rather than stopping at theory and experiments.
    
    

• Is prior AI or machine learning experience required for this beginner-friendly AI course?

  No prior machine learning or AI experience is required. The program starts with the fundamentals and builds up, so beginners can follow along comfortably. What helps most is a basic understanding of programming and math, paired with curiosity and consistency.
  

• How often do new cohorts start for this program?

  An admissions counselor can tell you about the next available cohort and help you reserve your seat. You can schedule a call by clicking the Talk to an Advisor button available on this page.
  

• How do learner reviews help me?

  Learner reviews provide a broader view of the learning experience offered by Simplilearn's programs, including feedback on live classes, instructors, hands-on projects, support, and career-focused outcomes. They help you understand what learners value most across their learning journeys.