Overview
The Microsoft Azure AI Fundamentals Certification (AI-900) is an entry-level credential designed to introduce individuals to the basic concepts of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) within the Microsoft Azure ecosystem. This certification covers core AI workloads, including computer vision, natural language processing (NLP), conversational AI, and AI principles. It aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of AI services available on Azure and how they can be leveraged to solve real-world business problems. The AI-900 exam assesses a candidate’s understanding of these concepts through Azure-based AI solutions, without requiring deep technical expertise in coding or data science.
Qualification Pre-requisites
The Azure AI Fundamentals certification does not have any formal prerequisites, making it accessible to beginners. While candidates don’t need prior experience in AI or Azure, having a basic understanding of cloud computing and fundamental data concepts can be beneficial. Familiarity with general programming or data structures may also provide a smoother learning experience, although it is not mandatory for success in the exam.
Who is This Qualification For?
This certification is ideal for a wide range of individuals, including technical and non-technical professionals. It is suited for IT professionals, business decision-makers, project managers, and those involved in managing AI or data-driven projects. Individuals from a non-technical background who want to explore AI solutions without diving into coding, as well as developers or data scientists looking to understand Azure AI capabilities, can also greatly benefit from this qualification.
Benefits of This Qualification
Achieving the Azure AI Fundamentals certification provides several advantages. It equips professionals with foundational knowledge of AI principles and their application in Azure, helping them understand and communicate how AI solutions can improve business outcomes. This certification can be a stepping stone toward more advanced AI or data science certifications within the Azure suite, including Azure AI Engineer Associate or Azure Data Scientist Associate. It also enhances one’s marketability in job roles that involve AI and cloud technologies, making it easier to transition into AI-related positions.
Average Salary of People with This Qualification
The average salary for professionals holding the Microsoft Azure AI Fundamentals certification can vary depending on the job role and location. However, those with this certification typically earn around £65,000 to £76,000 per year in AI-related or cloud computing roles. Entry-level professionals might start at the lower end of this range, while experienced candidates using the certification as a stepping stone into AI engineering or data science roles could command higher salaries.
Career Prospects
The career prospects for individuals with the Azure AI Fundamentals certification are promising. The growing demand for AI and machine learning solutions across industries means professionals with knowledge of Azure AI tools are well-positioned for roles like AI business strategist, cloud consultant, AI project manager, or junior AI engineer. This certification also serves as a foundation for advancing into more specialized roles such as AI Engineer, Data Scientist, or Cloud Solution Architect within the Azure ecosystem, opening doors to lucrative positions in the expanding AI field.