Massachusetts residents can access free Google AI online training
Dear Boston University Community,
Good news: Massachusetts residents can access free Google AI online training through the Massachusetts AI Hub [link is https://aihub.masstech.org/google-certificates#:~:text=Massachusetts%20residents%20will%20receive%20no%2Dcost,Google%20AI%20Essentials]. You must be a Massachusetts resident to enroll. The course is available at no cost for a limited time through December 31, 2027. This is an excellent opportunity to build your AI skills before campus gets busy again. Faculty and staff can learn practical ways to responsibly integrate AI into teaching and administrative workflows, while students can gain resume-ready skills and get a head start on projects and internships.
There’s also a significant benefit for campus security. The training covers responsible AI use, data privacy fundamentals, recognizing social-engineering and phishing tactics, and strategies for avoiding accidental data leaks. These skills can help reduce risky behaviors, strengthen protection for research and student data, and contribute to a more resilient campus community. Being AI-savvy also helps you make smarter, safer decisions when using tools powered by large language models.
Bonus: if you complete the training over the summer, you’ll arrive in the fall already familiar with key concepts — less catching up, more confidence in class, research, or advising.
Ready to sign up? Visit Massachusetts AI Hub [link is as above], confirm your eligibility using your Massachusetts ZIP code, sign in or create the required account, and follow the enrollment prompts for the Google AI certificates. The courses are self-paced, making them ideal for a summer learning sprint.
If you encounter any issues, use the MassTech support link on the website. Please consider sharing this opportunity with colleagues and classmates so we can continue building an AI-smart and cyber-safe Boston University community.
Stay curious, stay secure, and remember—we’ve got your back. The BU Information Security team is here to help with resources, guidance, and support whenever you need it.
And as always, BU offers its own AI learning opportunities. The AI Development Accelerator (AIDA), in collaboration with the Institute for Excellence in Teaching & Learning, offers the AI at BU Student Certificate [link is https://www.bu.edu/excellence/programs-services/artificial-intelligence/ai-at-bu-student-certificate/]—an online course designed to introduce students (and open to faculty and staff as well) to the fundamentals of AI and its responsible, ethical, and effective use in academic and professional settings.
Looking to build your skills even further? BU also offers a variety of ongoing training opportunities [link is https://www.bu.edu/tech/about/training/classroom/generative-ai-tools/], including Quick Start: Introduction to Generative AI, Noodle Factory AI: Generative AI Chatbot, and GenAI Tools for Productivity: Microsoft Copilot Chat, Adobe Firefly, and TerrierGPT, provided through EdTech and IS&T.