Indiana University opens free GenAI 101 to 805,000 alumni worldwide

Written from press release

BLOOMINGTON, Ind. — Oct. 22, 2025 — Indiana University is opening its free GenAI 101 course to more than 805,000 alumni worldwide, extending an introductory program in generative artificial intelligence beyond students, faculty and staff, the university announced.

The self-paced virtual course launched in August and has drawn more than 40,000 participants, IU said. Alumni can enroll by logging into their My IU accounts.

Designed for early- to mid-stage learners, GenAI 101 covers 20 skills across eight modules and 16 short lessons, including prompt engineering, data storytelling, fact-checking AI-generated content and ethical use. The curriculum uses publicly accessible tools such as Google Gemini and ChatGPT and includes an interactive assistant, “Crimson,” to support learners. Graduates can add an IU completion badge to LinkedIn profiles.

“When we introduced our GenAI 101 course for students, faculty and staff, alumni immediately reached out wanting to take part,” IU President Pamela Whitten said. “Now, all members of the IU family can gain the tools to thrive in a rapidly changing technological world. We’re proud to help America’s largest living alumni network continue to learn and lead effectively in the age of artificial intelligence.”

Brian Williams, the course’s lead professor at the Kelley School of Business, said the skills are intended for immediate use in careers and daily life.

https://news.iu.edu/live/news/47733-iu-expands-free-genai-101-course-to-more-than

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