Empowering professionals to lead with confidence into tomorrow’s AI-driven world

September 23, 2025 ·

Contributed by: DeGroote School of Business

A woman with earphones in smiling and waving at her laptop screen.

Artificial intelligence is transforming the way every sector operates. To meet this moment, the DeGroote School of Business at McMaster University is proud to announce the launch of a new Graduate Academic Certificate in Data Science, Applied AI and Organizational Leadership. This specialized program is designed specifically to empower mid-career managers who want to transform apprehension about AI into a strategic advantage. Participants build tangible new capabilities in data-fluency, applying AI responsibly and shaping the future of their organizations.

“Mid-level managers face a double challenge: sustaining their current performance while reimagining their potential in a rapidly shifting landscape,” notes Khaled Hassanein, dean of the DeGroote School of Business. “This credential will not only give them technical literacy, but the strategic and ethical grounding needed to lead AI initiatives with confidence and credibility.”

From uncertainty to confidence: Why this certificate matters

AI and data science are redefining the skills expected of managers across every sector. Findings from recent global workforce studies, including the AI-Enabled ICT Workforce Consortium, underscore that while AI can automate routine tasks, the need for analytical, ethical and strategic leadership is growing rapidly. Managers who can confidently demonstrate digital fluency and guide teams through AI-enabled change will remain not just relevant, but indispensable.

This graduate academic certificate addresses the very real concerns of managers facing AI disruption. Rather than fearing job obsolescence, DeGroote’s solution is proactive and empowering. Students will learn how to leverage AI to excel in their role, to drive business outcomes, and to become champions of smart organizational innovation.

“AI will not replace managers who know how to harness AI,” says Manaf Zargoush, associate professor of Health Policy and Management, and the faculty lead of the McLean Centre’s Data Analytics and AI Hub.

“Our graduate academic certificate equips professionals to make the leap from uncertainty to leadership in this transformative age, providing them with the tools and strategic mindset needed to excel and inspire.”

What makes this program distinct?

• Immediate, Applied Learning: Three courses focusing on strategic data leadership, hands-on AI skill-building and real-world application through capstones and case studies. Bring your workplace challenges into the classroom for discussion and solutioning. Course assignments are designed to help you turn theory into action and to facilitate immediate application at work.
• Build an AI and Data Strategy: Build your own or contribute to a peer’s organization-specific AI strategy while gaining a roadmap for leading with AI and data at any level within your organization. No technical knowledge required.
• Flexible Hybrid Delivery: On-campus, live, virtual and self-paced modules suit the schedules of busy professionals.
• Microsoft Credential Alignment: Prepare for globally recognized exams (e.g., Microsoft DP-900, AI-900) as part of your studies.
• Immediate Impact: Assignments are built around your real workplace challenges, turning theory into action from day one.

Sample curriculum highlights:

• GC700 Strategic Leadership with Data & AI: Develop a personalized roadmap for digital transformation and lead culture change for AI adoption.
• GC701 Leveraging AI for Organizational Leadership: Build AI-driven solutions for managerial challenges, including prompt engineering and business AI integrations.
• GC702 Business Data Fundamentals & GC703 AI Foundations for Business: Gain foundational and advanced skills in data management, analytics and responsible AI.

Building AI confidence and career resilience

Managers who complete the certificate will:
• Learn to design and implement actionable AI and data strategies.
• Gain hands-on experience with cutting-edge tools including Chatbots, AI Agenda, Azure AI and Power BI.
• Enhance organizational value by leading AI adoption and change management.
• Receive a digital badge that signals to current (and future) employers the commitment to ethical, secure and impactful technology leadership.

Meet the instructor

Ryan Tessier is a technology strategist, educator and senior leader in Canada’s energy sector. With a PhD in mathematics focused on machine learning and quantum systems, he helps professionals turn AI and data into tools for leadership, strategy and transformation. Tessier has led national training initiatives including the Microsoft Canada Digital Skills program and is known for making complex concepts accessible and actionable.

Next steps for applicants

The first cohort will start in Winter 2026, with registration now open for qualified candidates. To support managers balancing work and study, the program is delivered in a hybrid, high-impact format.

Start your application today.

For more details, including information sessions and group registration, please email gradcert@mcmaster.ca or visit our website.