Overview
Enrollment is open now, but course access does not begin until October 7th. Please note this is a fully self-paced course.
AI is transforming how conservation organizations work, from drafting proposals to analyzing biodiversity data. But without the right skills and safeguards, it can also introduce risks. This course gives conservation professionals a practical, responsible foundation in AI. You will learn how large language models work, how to write effective prompts, and how to apply AI to your specific job, whether that is communications, research, fundraising, program management, or other roles. You will also learn to identify and mitigate risks like bias, hallucination, and data sensitivity. By the end, you will have designed and documented a real AI application for your work: a case study you can share and build on.
Certificate programs
This course is a part of the following certificate programs:
Who this course is designed for
This course is designed for conservation professionals across all job functions and geographies within Conservation International, including (but not limited to):
- Program managers
- Communications and marketing staff
- Fundraising and development staff
- Researchers and data analysts
- Monitoring, evaluation, and learning (MEL) officers
- Policy and advocacy staff
- Field operations staff
No prior AI experience is required.
Outcomes
By the end of this course, you’ll be able to:
- Apply AI tools to real conservation tasks using structured prompting techniques and iterative refinement.
- Evaluate the risks and limitations of AI in conservation contexts, including bias, data sensitivity, and environmental impact, and apply appropriate mitigation strategies.
- Determine effective AI use cases within specific job functions such as fundraising or data analysis
- Design and document a case study demonstrating a concrete AI application in the learner's own professional role.
- Communicate the value, process, and results of an AI-assisted workflow to peers and stakeholders.
Program support
Have additional questions?
Please reach out directly to ConservationFuturesAcademy@asu.edu for all course content related questions.
Connect with our team
Complete a brief form to get program recommendations and answers to your questions.