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Simplilearn and UC Santa Barbara’s AI Leadership Program

In an exciting development for professionals looking to harness the power of artificial intelligence, Simplilearn, a renowned global leader in digital upskilling, has partnered with the University of California, Santa Barbara (UCSB) Professional and Continuing Education (PaCE) to unveil the Agentic AI for Leaders: Systems, Design & Impact program. This initiative is aimed at equipping individuals with the essential skills required to navigate the evolving AI landscape and implement agentic AI systems effectively in their organizations.

Program Overview

The Agentic AI for Leaders program emphasizes a hands-on approach to learning about AI capabilities, focusing on real-world applications. Participants will benefit from live virtual classes supplemented with online self-learning modules and recorded sessions available through Simplilearn's Learning Management System (LMS). The 10-week curriculum covers important topics such as:

• - Foundations of AI
• - Agentic AI
• - Python with AI
• - Multi-Agent Ecosystems
• - Tooling Protocols

The structure is designed so professionals can seamlessly integrate their learning into their existing schedules, with an expected commitment of six to eight hours per week.

Industry Relevance

Recent data suggests a growing trend in the adoption of AI technologies among companies, with 66% reporting productivity gains from using AI agents. Furthermore, 88% of executives are planning to increase their AI budgets by May 2026, reflecting a significant shift from test deployments to comprehensive, large-scale implementations. This course not only provides theoretical knowledge but also incorporates techniques and tools that professionals can utilize immediately.

The program features various learning modalities, including over 40+ demos, 30+ tools, and 10+ guided practices. One standout feature is the masterclass centered on building and deploying agentic AI solutions using Microsoft’s Copilot Studio and AutoGen. This class, delivered by a Microsoft-certified trainer, will highlight how low-code solutions can facilitate rapid deployment of AI systems within a business context.

Capstone and Career Support

To affirm their learning, participants will engage in a capstone project where they will develop and assemble a four-agent system designed to conduct coordinated market research and analyze go-to-market strategies. This culminates in practical exposure, fostering a deeper understanding of AI integration in business.

Collaboration doesn’t end with fundamental learning; Simplilearn’s Career Support Services will guide learners in their professional journeys, offering resources like career workshops, networking opportunities, interview preparations, and tailored assessments to transform job searches into successful careers.

Mr. Kashyap Dalal, Co-founder and COO of Simplilearn, commented on the significance of this program, stating, “Agentic AI signifies a monumental advancement in AI adoption, transitioning from mere task assistance to autonomous decision-making and execution. Our collaboration aims to infuse substantial academic depth while keeping strong industry relevance, ensuring our learners are well-prepared for real-world applications.”

Denis Couturier, Dean at UCSB PaCE, added, “We are thrilled to partner with Simplilearn in shaping the future of AI development. This program addresses the pressing need for professionals who can create intelligent interfaces and design agents capable of navigating complexity.”

Upon completion of the course, learners will receive a certificate from UC Santa Barbara PaCE and obtain Microsoft Learn badges for their achievements.

About the Institutions

Founded in 2010, Simplilearn is a leader in digital education and training, leveraging partnerships with esteemed institutions and corporations worldwide to support over 8 million learners each year. UCSB stands as a prestigious research university, recognized widely for its academic excellence and comprehensive learning opportunities.

This collaboration represents a significant step forward in professional education, particularly in fostering skills necessary for the evolving field of AI – a critical need as companies worldwide reimagine and strengthen their AI capabilities.

For those interested in leveraging AI to advance their careers, enrolling in the Agentic AI for Leaders program may just be the stepping stone needed to thrive in an increasingly automated future.