Source:

• Il Sole 24 Ore, published on May 5th, 2026

Source:

• Times of India, published on May 20th, 2026

The Open Institute of Technology (OPIT) is a top destination for learners seeking degrees in Data Science, Computer Science, Cybersecurity, and Artificial Intelligence. The institute’s goal is to ensure that high-quality tech education is accessible and affordable to all. But what’s it really like to study with OPIT?

Student Cristobal Bragagnolo recently spoke with Greta Maiocchi, Head of Marketing and Admissions at OPIT, and Sara Ciabattoni, a Senior Class Coordinator. Cristobal opened up about his experiences learning with OPIT, including how he balanced his studies with other commitments, and the benefits of the industry-first course material.

Quick Summary

• OPIT offers tech courses focused on hands-on experience and the intersection between technology and leadership.
• Courses are held remotely, utilizing online lectures and pre-recorded content.
• Students can also attend events and collaborate with their peers.
• Coursework can be completed at any time as long as it supports the completion of regular assessments.
• Many students get the opportunity to work on meaningful projects that support their future career goals.

The Realities of Online Learning

Attending an entirely online course requires self-discipline and self-motivation. Many OPIT learners have careers and may be balancing several responsibilities already. Some have to juggle parenting or other caring responsibilities alongside studying and work, making it even more difficult to find the time to study.

Thankfully, OPIT’s courses are entirely flexible, so students can view recorded lectures at times convenient to them. Assessments are spread evenly throughout the term, removing the stress of one major exam at the end of the course. This approach also encourages students to focus on the current module, rather than cramming several modules at once.

Cristobal is studying for an MSc in Responsible AI while he continues his career as a biologist at a university in Spain. He’s exploring the crossover between AI and biology, utilizing the knowledge gained from OPIT to create an app that could change the methodology of plant research.

He notes that studying for his Bachelor’s degree was exhausting. By contrast, the ability to study on weekends or late afternoons has been “life changing.” Asynchronous studying means Cristobal can take a break when he’s overwhelmed and jump right back in when he has the energy.

How OPIT’s Platform and Community Support Students

The OPIT platform is intuitive, and students get support every step of the way. As well as the online services, every course has a class or program coordinator. These individuals are here to help with onboarding, reminding learners of important deadlines and course milestones, and supporting individual students as they face their specific challenges. Students can message coordinators through the online platform or book a one-to-one session during their office hours.

Coordinators offer one pillar of support, with experienced faculty members forming a second. A third pillar comes in the form of annual events like careers fairs, which bring students together in the “real world.” But as a course coordinator, Sara notes that there is a fourth pillar of support: the students themselves. The community of OPIT students spans over 90 countries, and they regularly communicate, collaborate, and even mentor each other, adding another layer of support and education to these already rich courses.

Cristobal reiterated that it’s been easy to speak to coordinators and lecturers when needed: “(W)here I have a question, I can talk with a real person, not with a bot; not send an email and hope that you get an answer in a week. You just book a meeting, you get your doubt answered, and it has been great.”

Overcoming Challenges: Practical Solutions for Mastering Balance

Juggling studies, a job, and personal life can be challenging. Cristobal has found that the best way to address this is to dive into the real-time lectures when he has the time. When life gets busy, he sets time aside to catch up with his studies on a less hectic Saturday.

He recalled that during the first semester of his MSc course, he had plenty of free time to study alongside other students. When it came to the second semester, though, suddenly he was working more hours and contributing to two academic papers. He eventually landed on watching the videos during meals and working through the materials in his spare weekend time. However, in order to maintain balance and a fulfilling personal life, Cristobal still tries to ensure he keeps every Sunday free for some “me time.”

OPIT’s Industry-First Approach Prepares Students for Future Work Opportunities

The MSc in Responsible AI is just one course that prepares students for real-life jobs, from data analysts to AI consultants. Cristobal remembers that he was initially not as concerned about the “Responsible” part in the course title – he just wanted to learn the technical and academic details. But he now says that learning about using AI in the real world in a responsible way “…was one of the most impactful things…” about the course.

From working with human-centered AI experts to meaningful Capstone projects to life-changing internships, OPIT takes an industry-first approach throughout its courses. Students aren’t just learning technical theory. They’re gaining hands-on experience they can apply throughout their careers, and use to impress potential future employers.

Key Takeaways

• Students enjoy how the online material and asynchronous learning promote work-study-life balance.
• It’s easy to connect with other students and faculty members.
• OPIT’s industry-first approach augments student experiences with real-world knowledge and skills.

Discover the OPIT Student Experience for Yourself

Even though you’re learning remotely with OPIT, you’re never alone. You’re part of a class of enthusiastic learners, all with diverse career goals. You gain access to an expert faculty, and you get the opportunity to connect with top industry professionals and firms, with whom you can maintain relationships even after your studies have finished.

If you want more information on OPIT courses, get the brochure and discover how you can unlock the next stage of your future in tech.

FAQs

What’s it like to be a student on an OPIT course?

OPIT students report overwhelmingly positive experiences with their studies, praising the exceptional platform and faculty, and the ability to study while maintaining a career.

Are all OPIT courses completed completely remotely?

Yes, every course offers completely online course material, with a combination of live-remote lectures and recorded study materials. In the final terms of some courses, students may get the option to work on a collaborative project or pursue internships with industrial partners. Students can also attend events created specifically to help learners become part of an active community while networking and furthering their potential future opportunities.

How long does it take to complete an OPIT remote course?

Each course has its own timeframe – many offer different course lengths for additional flexibility. For instance, the BSc in Computer Science is a three-year course, while the MSc in Responsible Artificial Intelligence can be completed in one-and-a-half or two years.

Becoming a successful entrepreneur is the dream for many aspiring inventors and creators. Maria Brilaki achieved that dream, thanks to the ability to remotely study for and achieve an MSc in Responsible Artificial Intelligence from the Open Institute of Technology (OPIT).

She recently spoke to BlueSky Thinking about her experience studying with OPIT and her resulting MedTech development. Her insights could help other budding entrepreneurs find the right educational pathway to success.

Quick Summary

• Maria Brilaki is a successful entrepreneur and MedTech developer.
• Learning with OPIT gave her the ability to utilize AI to create a medical device inspired by her diabetic daughter.
• OPIT’s remote courses meant she could learn and work simultaneously.
• The rigorous curriculum allowed her to develop her AI skills to the point where she could develop hardware.
• Maria now hopes to make the personalized MedTech device she has created commercially available.

Meet Maria Brilaki: MedTech Entrepreneur

Maria Brilaki has had a fascinating career, first training as a civil and environmental engineer, then launching an e-learning health platform: Fitness Reloaded. She’s also written a best-selling health book and was Senior Product Manager at Fiery, a digital front-end (DFE) server and workflow solutions provider.

While working at Fiery, Maria was the lead on many AI-powered products. However, she wanted to take things further. She wanted to get to the point where she could create with AI. That required some additional training and education. For this, she went to OPIT. OPIT’s MSc in Responsible Artificial Intelligence gave her the skills she needed to create a wearable, non-invasive device for measuring blood sugar levels.

She now hopes to launch this product as a solution to painful needles and other invasive treatments and monitoring associated with diabetes.

How Maria’s Invention Works

The device brings together Maria’s passions for engineering, AI, and wellness. However, the inspiration came directly from her daughter. A few years back, Maria’s daughter was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes. Since then, she’s had to endure painful injections and pin-prick blood tests, plus the skin irritation associated with current continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) technology. Maria noted that many current CGM devices offer delayed readings that can pose a health risk.

Maria’s solution is based on optics and how light interacts with different compounds in the skin. The device is wearable and uses near-infrared (NIR) monitoring to assess glucose levels. There are no needles or under-skin sensors, removing the pain and irritation associated with CGM.

The creation of this advanced MedTech device occurred as part of Maria’s OPIT MSc course. The course culminates in a Capstone Project and Dissertation. Students get the chance to work on a real-life project or piece of research with industrial relevance. Students can also pursue internships with relevant organizations to complement their project work.

Maria chose to solve the problem of painful CGM. Her work included the development of the device, plus a careful study of 25 participants to understand the impact of the device.

Challenges on the Road to Success

As with any new technology, there were a few bumps in the road to success. Maria noted that the physics of the problem were very challenging. Everyone’s skin compounds are unique, making the creation of patterns for monitoring tricky. She circumvented this problem by calibrating the device to the individual.

Maria also observed that being a female entrepreneur has its own challenges. Very few women-founded startups receive the same level of funding compared to their male-run counterparts. However, she said that having a working prototype, thanks to her OPIT studies, has changed conversations. In Maria’s words, “Hardware backed by data commands attention.”

What’s Next for Maria?

Maria’s ultimate goal is to remove the need for needles in blood sugar monitoring. If her device becomes widely adopted, it could take the pain out of diabetic monitoring and treatment, improving the quality of life for patients all over the world.

Without the opportunity to learn remotely with OPIT, she would never have had the chance to apply machine learning on a person-by-person basis or create a piece of AI-powered hardware from scratch. She’s now working on commercializing the prototype and gaining FDA approval for her device.

Key Takeaways

• Entrepreneurs are more likely to achieve success with a working prototype of their product or service.
• Remote education in tech-specific subjects can empower entrepreneurs to do more.
• OPIT offers flexible, remote education for professionals and entrepreneurs wanting to expand their skillset.

Discover Your Own Pathway to Successful Entrepreneurship

Maria’s advice to other budding entrepreneurs is, “…focus on solving meaningful problems. The bigger the problem, the more it is worth putting your attention to. Don’t be afraid by the size of it; instead, focus on what it would mean if you were to solve it.”

You can discover the program that led to Maria’s success at OPIT. The MSc in Responsible Artificial Intelligence is a 1.5 to two-year course that you complete remotely. It’s a fully accredited level 7 course and offers opportunities to create a meaningful project and connect with businesses across multiple industries, just like Maria.

If you want more details on this program, get the brochure and discover how easy it is to get started with OPIT.

FAQ

How can an AI degree help me become a successful entrepreneur?

An MSc in Responsible Artificial Intelligence can give you the skills you need to create something unique and tailored to solving a specific problem. You’ll learn about ethics and AI, programming, data analytics, and natural language processing, which are all skills you can combine to create something purposeful and commercially viable.

Can I earn a Master’s degree in AI online?

Yes, with OPIT, you can complete an MSc in AI in as little as 1.5 years, and the course is entirely remote. The final project may involve an internship with a research lab or company, or you may decide to focus entirely on the Capstone Project and Dissertation without pursuing an internship.

How long does it take to remotely complete an MSc in Artificial Intelligence?

The course may take up to two years to complete and is classed as a full-time course. However, many learners complete the course in as little as 1.5 years and manage to balance their studies with existing commitments and jobs.

The Open Institute of Technology (OPIT) has given crypto industry enthusiasts and tech professionals a behind-the-scenes look into the blockchain world through the latest episode of its podcast: OPIT EDGE. The episode involves an interview with Kalidou Diagne, a senior frontend engineer at one of the biggest organizations in the industry, the Ethereum Foundation.

Quick Summary

• The latest episode of the OPIT EDGE podcast involved an interview with Kalidou Diagne.
• Diagne is a senior frontend engineer with the Ethereum Foundation.
• During the podcast, Diagne discussed his transition to Web3.
• He highlighted the importance of independent learning and a focus on practical problem-solving.
• He discussed big crypto trends, like a growing focus on privacy and Zero Knowledge architecture.

Introducing OPIT EDGE

OPIT EDGE is a student-driven podcast project from the Open Institute of Technology. It’s oriented around the tech industry, with episodes exploring the technological world from various perspectives, providing intriguing insights and advice to students and graduates alike. Each episode features a special guest from a specific field, like quantum AI, big data, or, in this case, Web3.

Episode 4: Inside the Ethereum Foundation – How to Break into Web3

The fourth episode of the OPIT EDGE podcast is entitled “Inside the Ethereum Foundation – How to Break into Web3.” It features the podcast’s host, Levi Mandji, sitting down with Kalidou Diagne, architect at the Ethereum Foundation, a non-profit organization that supports the Ethereum ecosystem via research, project funding, and protocol development.

As the title indicates, the episode largely revolved around Diagne sharing his journey as he progressed from conventional software development into the Web3 ecosystem. He touched on several topics during his discussion with the host, including his views on education, advice for those who wish to follow a similar path, and interesting industry trends related to crypto and blockchain.

Here’s a closer look at some of the main talking points from this episode.

Web2 vs. Web3

Before discussing his work in Web3 in detail, Diagne explains how Web2 and Web3 actually differ. He explained how Web2 is the centralized internet that is largely dominated by big tech corporations, such as Meta, Google, etc. With Web2, users effectively trade data for services, entering their email addresses or phone numbers to create profiles on platforms like Facebook, for example.

He notes that arguably the biggest difference with Web3 is how it has a completely different power dynamic. Instead of central authorities like Google holding the power, Web3 is built around open-source code and peer-to-peer protocols. He explained that this also makes Web3 development and engineering completely different from working with Web2.

Diagne’s Transition

Given the vast differences between Web2 and Web3, it can be difficult even for experienced developers and engineers to move from one ecosystem to the other. They may struggle to adapt to the unique elements of Web3 that simply don’t exist in Web2, and vice versa. Diagne, however, was able to make that transition and explained how he did so during the interview.

He discussed how he took his transition into his own hands by actively contributing to open-source projects on GitHub. He would also seek out projects with bugs or other problems that needed solving and apply his skill set to provide solutions. This helped him gain valuable practical experience with Web3, and it even led to his first job offer from a U.S. company working with NFTs.

Self-Learning Mindset

Diagne emphasized the importance of a “self-learning mindset,” a proactive, growth-oriented approach to education. People with this kind of mindset are naturally curious and eager to improve their skills, gaining personal knowledge not just through books or lectures, but through putting their skills to the test on real-world projects and problems.

Diagne explained how, over the course of approximately six months, he would work on GitHub projects, watch YouTube videos to learn more about Web3, and go as deep into the field as he could. He saw challenges as opportunities to learn, and always sought to test himself; even if he encountered problems or wrote code that didn’t work the first time around, he’d work hard to perfect it.

Degrees vs. Skills

In many ways, Diagne is an autodidact. He explained that he began educating himself about development in his free time during high school. Upon leaving school, he had a choice: go to university or enter the working world. He decided to go directly to work, concerned that if he spent several years on a degree, the technology would evolve so quickly that much of his knowledge could be irrelevant.

So, he honed his skills over time, through trial and error. With that said, he still underscored the importance of education in general, noting that while some companies prize skills and experience, others will only offer roles to those with qualifications. He added that, while the self-study approach worked for him, others may find higher education a much better option to gain the skills they need.

AI-Assisted Coding

Diagne also took a moment to touch on the topic of AI-assisted coding, otherwise known as “vibe coding,” and tied this into a larger discussion of how AI is changing the face of the tech world today. He shared his belief that AI will “revolutionize” most industries, but also warned students and aspiring developers against becoming overly reliant on it.

He highlighted an example in which an app was created via vibe coding, but had a major issue in its backend, which led to users’ private data being leaked. Diagne cautioned that AI-assisted coding can be useful for the basics, but urged those wishing to work in technology to make sure they have their own coding skills and not to simply expect AI to write all their code for them.

The Ethereum Foundation and Crypto Trends

Diagne also shared insights into working in the heart of the crypto industry as part of the prestigious Ethereum Foundation. He mentioned a few of the big trends shaping the industry at the moment, including:

• Privacy: Diagne explained that privacy is a top priority for many organizations in the Web3 world right now, adding that they are experimenting with new ways to keep data private without compromising the security of Web3 tools and services.
• Zero Knowledge: He added that “Zero-Knowledge” technology is becoming a bigger part of the industry, too. This revolves around special cryptographic techniques used to verify statements without relying on potentially personal or sensitive information in the process.

Advice for Aspiring Developers

When asked to share what advice he’d give to someone wishing to break into the Web3 world, Diagne stated that they should not simply fixate on learning, but actually put their knowledge to the test. He recommended that aspiring developers actually try to replicate the things they learn, build their own projects, and implement skills on a regular basis.

In addition, he strongly encouraged students to keep up to date with new trends and technologies as they emerge. He recommended following tech news and blogs so that they don’t get left behind, which is so important right now as the tech world evolves at an increasingly rapid rate.

How OPIT Can Help Aspiring Web3 Developers

OPIT’s unique brand of technological education aligns cohesively with Diagne’s advice, as the institute focuses on giving students practical skills and knowledge they can apply to solve real-world problems. It’s not just about reading books and memorizing statistics; OPIT goes further, helping students get ready to embark on technological careers with confidence and valuable skill sets.

The institute offers several courses geared towards those who wish to work in Web3, from introductory courses like the Foundation Program through to master’s degrees, like the MSc in Digital Business and Innovation. Learn more on the OPIT website, or submit your application online today.

The Open Institute of Technology (OPIT) has swiftly cemented its reputation as one of the best places to study emerging technologies, like AI. Many students speak highly of the institute’s forward-thinking approach to education and a clear focus on hands-on, practical knowledge. One of those students, Cristobal Bragagnolo, recently sat down for a video interview to explain what made him choose OPIT over other options.

Quick Summary

• Cristobal Bragagnolo, an OPIT master’s student, was interviewed on why he chose OPIT.
• Cristobal cited numerous advantages, like OPIT’s accessibility and the quality of the course.
• He also spoke of the unique freedom and flexibility that only come with online learning.
• Cristobal recommends prospective applicants consider OPIT’s distinct qualities when choosing their next educational steps.

The Interview

This interview was organized as a way for prospective OPIT students to learn more about what makes studying with OPIT so special, different, and beneficial in ways they might not have expected. The interviewer was Santiago Fonesca, OPIT’s International Student Recruiter, who spoke with Cristobal, a student of the Master’s Degree (MSc) in Responsible Artificial Intelligence.

Why Cristobal Chose OPIT

One of the first questions Cristobal was asked was why he chose OPIT over other institutions.

Having previously studied biology at the University of Granada in southern Spain, he was clearly familiar with the world of conventional higher education and could have continued his studies at one of the many highly-rated universities in his own home nation or elsewhere in Europe. Despite this, he chose OPIT, and there were several big reasons behind that decision.

Accessibility

Typically, at a conventional college or university, applicants to study a course related to responsible AI would usually have some sort of background in computer science. Indeed, it would be quite difficult to get a place on a course of this kind without either a relevant bachelor’s degree or extensive working experience with technology or AI in particular.

Cristobal knew this, explaining that “traditional universities’ programs for artificial intelligence” were only open to the likes of mathematicians or physicists. Upon finding OPIT, he realized how different it was. OPIT didn’t turn him away based on his previous, seemingly unrelated resume. Instead, he was invited to an interview and allowed to study a short “pre-course” before enrolling in the master’s program.

For Cristobal, this was a breath of fresh air. He describes the pre-course as “amazing,” adding that it felt like a “small degree in computer science” that gave him the foundational skills and knowledge he needed to progress into the program he wanted. He was immediately impressed with how OPIT opened doors for people like him, while other, more conventional universities kept those doors firmly closed.

Depth

Cristobal was also asked about misconceptions people might have about the idea of studying online. He noted that there are still some outdated views that some people hold when it comes to the idea of conventional versus online education, while also acknowledging that there are some small online courses out there that simply don’t have the same depth as a real university-level course.

But he added that, fortunately, that’s not the case at OPIT. As someone who comes from a highly academic background, Cristobal was pleased to see that OPIT courses are fully accredited and enjoy international recognition. He stated in no uncertain terms that OPIT’s MSc in Responsible AI is a genuine Master of Science degree that demands a strong level of commitment and hard work to attain.

He added that he was impressed by the depth of knowledge and the range of topics covered in the course, and appreciated how OPIT’s instructors and lecturers focus on hands-on knowledge and real-world skills, not just reading books and memorizing facts and figures.

Flexibility

Cristobal also touched on the flexibility of studying with OPIT and studying online in general. He noted that OPIT courses offer a level of freedom that simply cannot be found in conventional education. They give students the ability to balance their work life and personal life, or even – like Cristobal himself – the chance to work a full or part-time job in conjunction with their studies.

He explained how he currently works at least 30 hours per week and has other day-to-day tasks that need completing. For him, and people like him, a conventional college or university would not suffice, as he would have to adapt to the institution’s schedule, rules, and fixed geographic location. But by studying online, he’s free to live the life he wants at a pace that’s right for him.

Cristobal also noted that the flexibility of online learning helps him lead a happier and healthier life. It gives him the time he needs to go to the gym, for example, or step outside and get some fresh air when he feels the need. It frees him to cook good meals for himself.

A Typical Week for an OPIT Student

Asked about a typical week in his life, Cristobal explains how, as previously mentioned, he strikes a balance between work and study, doing 30 hours at his job in AI-related work while also studying for his master’s at other times of day or in the evenings. The fact that OPIT’s lectures are pre-recorded and available on-demand allows him to be able to do this with ease.

He adds that he finds time each day for other activities, like taking a walk, and can adjust his schedule to suit his needs and mood each week. Some weeks, he might focus a little harder on studying, for example, spending more time watching lectures live and making notes as he follows. Other times, he may rely more on OPIT’s resource bank to catch or revise certain topics.

He concludes that studying at OPIT has effectively allowed him to have a healthy and balanced life, with equal time for work, study, and personal fulfillment. He compares it to studying for his degree in Granada and notes how he found it much more stressful to keep up with the rigorous routine and fixed constraints of a conventional university.

A Supportive Community

Cristobal also found time during the interview to speak favorably of the OPIT community and support network, bringing up the following key points:

• Sense of Community: Cristobal spoke about how he felt like part of the OPIT community from minute one. He highlighted the availability and friendliness of faculty members and how they were always open and ready to respond to messages or answer questions at almost any time.
• A Global Student Body: Cristobal also spoke favorably of the international quality of the OPIT community, noting how he has professors from different parts of the world, like the United States, Italy, and Germany, and co-learners from places in Africa and Asia.
• Highly Qualified Staff: He also touched on the experience and accomplished nature of the OPIT staff, noting how these aren’t just lecturers or lifelong teachers, but professionals who have proven their skills in real technology businesses.

Summing Up: Cristobal’s Advice for Applicants

Moving forward, Cristobal plans to apply his newfound knowledge in responsible AI to the biological field. He was also asked what he’d tell those who are considering or hesitating about applying to OPIT in the coming weeks and months, noting that he’d encourage them to do their research and weigh up the pros and cons to decide if it’s the right move for them.

Cristobal went on to note that, for many people, OPIT is definitely “one of the best options out there,” due to its peerless levels of accessibility and flexibility. He also noted how the university has a fair and flexible payment system to support different budgets and is highly welcoming even for those who may not already have STEM degrees or experience.

If you feel like OPIT could be the right fit for you, learn more about the courses available on the OPIT website or submit your application today.

The Open Institute of Technology (OPIT) has leveled up its educational offering, adding a professional doctorate program to its curated line-up of courses. The program – Professional Doctorate in Applied Artificial Intelligence – focuses on advanced AI research and the ways in which this exciting technology can be used to shape business strategies and solve organizational problems.

Read on to learn all about it.

Quick Summary

• OPIT has launched a new program: Professional Doctorate in Applied Artificial Intelligence.
• It lasts for six terms, usually spread out over three years of study (a six-year plan is also available).
• It teaches students the skills they need to lead AI-enabled projects, strategies, and research.
• Career pathways include AI business strategy, digital transformation, and AI governance.
• Applicants should hold an MSc (ideally in STEM) and B2 level English proficiency.

Introducing the New Doctorate Program at OPIT

Since its inception, OPIT has offered a small, selective array of courses, giving students a choice of study paths without overwhelming them with too many options. It has focused primarily on bachelor’s and master’s degrees, while also offering an introductory pre-bachelor’s (foundation) program for those taking their first steps towards higher education.

Now, OPIT is offering a whole new level of study with its Professional Doctorate in Applied Artificial Intelligence. It is available to complete on a full-time or part-time basis, and is accessible entirely online. And like other OPIT courses, this program is aimed at the AI leaders, strategists, and project managers of tomorrow, equipping them with the skills and knowledge they need to succeed.

It’s the highest-level program available at OPIT today, for students seeking to achieve the highest standards of knowledge and expertise in their fields. It may not be for everyone, with some students simply settling at bachelor’s or master’s levels. But for those wanting to take that extra step towards excellence, this is the course to choose.

An Overview of OPIT’s Professional Doctorate in Applied Artificial Intelligence

Here’s a closer look at what this course involves:

• Duration: Six terms, spread out over three years (full-time) or six years (part-time).
• Content: Covers foundational and applied topics in AI and technology management. Also involves students creating their own research proposals and carrying out their own investigations, culminating in a doctoral dissertation and defense.
• Focus: Empowering students with the advanced AI research knowledge they need to conduct and even lead AI-enabled projects and strategies in their future careers.
• Format: Delivered entirely online, allowing students to study remotely and at their own pace.
• Assessment: Students will be assessed by completing a capstone research project and a doctoral dissertation, culminating in a defense of their dissertation before a panel of experts.

What the Program Covers

OPIT’s Professional Doctorate in Applied Artificial Intelligence is designed to equip students with the skills and knowledge necessary to apply AI technologies strategically across numerous industries and applications. Like other OPIT programs, it combines academic rigor with real-world applications and focuses not merely on knowledge but on how to put that knowledge to use.

The program covers three main areas of research:

• Core AI Technologies: Including machine learning, deep learning, natural language processing, and computer vision
• Industry Applications: Ways in which AI is and can be used in fields like finance, healthcare, smart cities, environment, and manufacturing
• Responsible and Applied AI: The ethics behind AI, the fundamentals of human-centric AI, and a specialist focus on sectors like AutoML and MLOps

During year one (of the full-time course), students will complete core modules like AI Applications in Industry. Moving into year two, they’ll focus on building their own research proposal and carrying out an initial investigation. Year three will focus exclusively on the capstone research project, dissertation, and an oral defense of said dissertation before the OPIT Examining Committee.

Who This Doctorate Is For

As a Doctorate program, this course is, naturally, not for everyone, but is instead aimed at a select group of applicants who already have a certain amount of expertise and/or experience in the field. Ideal applicants include:

• Mid-to-senior professionals or executives seeking to pursue AI-powered digital transformation of their organizations or future employers
• Domain experts who have already studied and worked with AI extensively, but want to deepen their knowledge and understanding even further
• Applied researchers and innovators seeking to bolster the fundamental research and practical skills needed for future projects
• Aspiring thought leaders and responsible professionals who are committed to discovering and deploying more responsible, ethical uses of AI
• Students who have already completed their bachelor’s and master’s degrees in technology, but still want to continue their educational journeys before moving into the working world

Benefits and Value of Studying a Professional Doctorate at OPIT

Many universities around the world are starting to offer professional doctorate programs in AI and other emerging technologies, but studying at OPIT offers unique advantages that no other school can provide:

• Online Learning: OPIT delivers all its courses, including this program, online. Students can tune into live lectures and access an array of pre-recorded learning materials on demand, allowing them to study at their own pace and from any location.
• Practical Applications: Conventional studies still focus heavily on learning statistics and memorizing information. OPIT takes a different approach, focusing much more on the practical applications of knowledge to give students real-world value.
• Strong Support: All OPIT students, at all levels of education, are part of the OPIT community. They can reach out to their tutors or fellow students at almost any time of the week for advice and assistance, as well as use the institute’s peerless array of support tools.
• Industry Leaders: Doctorate students at OPIT will enjoy learning from some of the world’s leading experts in AI, like Pierluigi Casale, AI Area Chair at OPIT, or Filip Bialy, Professor at Adam Mickiewicz University, with over 15 years of web development and AI ethics experience.
• Career Pathways: Those who succeed in this course will find numerous high-salary professional pathways open up to them. Graduates can move into jobs such as C-level executives, AI business strategists, AI consultants, policy advisors, or applied AI researchers.

Entry Requirements and Fees

Given that this is a Doctorate program, applicants will need to meet certain criteria in terms of their professional and educational background. At the same time, OPIT aims to make all of its courses as accessible as possible, so even if you don’t necessarily have a relevant master’s degree in a STEM field, there are still alternative pathways for admission into this course.

Applicants should possess:

• An MSc degree in a STEM discipline or a non-STEM MSc, but with five years of relevant work experience.
• English proficiency at level B2 or better.
• A statement of purpose outlining their intended research topic.
• A provisional supervisory agreement form.

Regarding fees, the total cost for this course is €24,000, with term fees of €4,000 per term for full-time students and €2,000 per term for part-time students. These fees are all-inclusive, with no hidden charges or optional extras to worry about. Funding opportunities are available via employer sponsorships or professional development funds.

Level Up Your Education at OPIT

So, whether you’re a seasoned tech professional looking to make better use of AI in your business, a researcher eager to uncover the next exciting applications of AI technologies, or a tech-enthusiast student who has completed their master’s and wants to take the next step, the Professional Doctorate in Applied Artificial Intelligence might be the perfect course for you. Browse the OPIT website to learn more or apply now.