Ever Wondered How to Make Artificial Intelligence (AI) Bend to Your Will?
As we sail through 2024, the art of prompt engineering has emerged as the secret sauce to loosen up the full ability of AI tools like ChatGPT, Midjourney, and their contemporaries.
With AI becoming a staple in both our personal and professional lives, and with the demand for prompt engineering expertise skyrocketing, showing a staggering 420% increase in job postings, the ability to finely tune these interactions is not just a neat trick—it’s an essential skill for productivity and creativity. As companies race to sway generative AI, those who master the art of crafting effective prompts will be in high demand.
But where do you start? We’ve scoured the web to bring you the 12 Best AI Prompt Engineering Courses to jumpstart your journey.
Let’s have a quick look at these courses!
What is Prompt Engineering?
AI prompt engineering is the process of designing and optimizing text-based inputs, known as prompts, to guide and elicit desired outputs from AI models, particularly large language models (LLMs). It involves crafting clear, specific instructions and examples to align the AI’s behavior with the user’s intent.
Prompt engineering is crucial for effective human-AI communication across various applications, from chatbots and content generation to code development and cybersecurity.
Career Opportunities in AI Prompt Engineering
AI prompt engineering offers exciting career prospects across various industries:
- Technology companies hire prompt engineers to optimize their AI models and enhance user experiences.
- Marketing and advertising agencies employ prompt engineers to generate compelling content and improve campaign performance.
- In healthcare, prompt engineers contribute to developing AI-powered diagnostic tools and patient support systems.
- Educational institutions seek prompt engineers to create personalized learning experiences and AI-driven tutoring platforms.
- Freelance and consulting opportunities are available for experienced prompt engineers to provide expertise to businesses implementing AI solutions.
As AI continues to transform industries, the demand for skilled prompt engineers is expected to grow, offering diverse and rewarding career paths
List of Top 12 Prompt Engineering Courses
| Course Name | Provider | Duration | Cost | Key Topics Covered |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Comprehensive Courses | ||||
| Prompt Engineering for ChatGPT | Vanderbilt University | 18 hours | Free to audit, $49 for certificate | Crafting basic to advanced prompts, hands-on assignments, using ChatGPT for various tasks |
| Cookbook for ChatGPT, Dall-E, Whisper | OpenAI | Self-paced | Free | Example code and guides for using OpenAI API, covering GPT, DALL-E, Whisper, embeddings, fine-tuning |
| Prompt Engineering for Developers | DeepLearning.AI | 1.5 hours | Free | Best practices for using LLM APIs, common use cases, building custom chatbots |
| Professional Certificate in Machine Learning and Artificial Intelligence | UC Berkeley | 6 months, 15-20 hours/week | $7,500 | Foundations of ML/AI, hands-on coding in Python, advanced topics like NLP and deep learning |
| Advanced MidJourney Prompt Engineering | James Bachini | NA | NA | Advanced techniques for using MidJourney to generate images |
| Specialized Courses | ||||
| Prompt Engineering Specialization | Class Central | NA | NA | Specialized topics in prompt engineering |
| Prompt Engineering with Llama 2 | DeepLearning.AI | NA | NA | Prompt engineering techniques specific to the Llama 2 model |
| Short and Intensive Courses | ||||
| Fast & Free Prompt Engineering Course with Cheat Sheets | Codecademy | NA | Free | Quick introduction to prompt engineering with cheat sheets |
| Short Courses in Generative AI | DeepLearning.AI | NA | Not specified | Short, intensive courses on various generative AI topics |
| Online Platforms Offering Multiple Courses | ||||
| The Complete Prompt Engineering for AI Bootcamp | Udemy | 12.5 hours | $84.99 | Comprehensive prompt engineering course covering multiple AI models and platforms |
| Prompt Engineering for Everyone with ChatGPT and GPT-4 | Udemy | 2 hours | $84.99 | Prompt engineering for ChatGPT and GPT-4, suitable for all skill levels |
| Additional Resources | ||||
| OpenAI API Documentation on Prompt Engineering | OpenAI | Not applicable | Free | Official documentation and guides on prompt engineering from OpenAI |
1. Vanderbilt University: Prompt Engineering for ChatGPT
The “Prompt Engineering for ChatGPT” course offered by Vanderbilt University stands out as a beacon for those eager to master the art of communicating effectively with AI, particularly ChatGPT. This course, available on Coursera, is designed to transform beginners into proficient prompt engineers over a concise yet comprehensive one-month duration, dedicating approximately 10 hours per week.
Course Details
- Duration: 1 month at 10 hours per week.
- Instructor: Dr. Jules White, a distinguished associate professor of computer science at Vanderbilt University.
Course Structure and Content Highlights
The curriculum is meticulously designed to cover a broad spectrum of topics related to prompt engineering. It begins with an introduction to large language models and their capabilities, followed by detailed sessions on crafting effective prompts, optimizing AI outputs, and understanding the ethical considerations in AI use. The course includes:
- Hands-on prompt engineering exercises.
- Techniques for augmenting human creativity and critical thinking with AI.
- Applications of prompt engineering in various domains, such as content creation, problem-solving, and more.
Fees for Vanderbilt University Course for Prompt Engineering
While the course itself is free to audit on Coursera, learners can opt to pay $49 for a certificate upon completion. This certificate can be a valuable addition to a professional portfolio, showcasing the learner’s commitment and expertise in prompt engineering.
Student Reviews and Course Impact
Student reviews consistently praise the course for its comprehensive content, practical exercises, and the expertise of Dr. White. Many have reported significant improvements in their ability to interact with AI tools and apply prompt engineering techniques in real-world scenarios. However, it’s worth noting that the course is particularly beneficial for beginners and those with a basic understanding of computer skills.
2. OpenAI: Cookbook for ChatGPT, Dall-E, Whisper
OpenAI’s “Cookbook for ChatGPT, Dall-E, Whisper” is a journey into the heart of prompt engineering, designed for those who are serious about mastering the craft. With 14.5 hours of on-demand video and 7 insightful articles, this course is a deep dive into the techniques and strategies that make AI tools like ChatGPT, Dall-E, and Whisper truly shine.
This advanced course is structured to provide a thorough understanding of prompt engineering across different OpenAI models. It’s a treasure trove of knowledge for developers, data scientists, and AI enthusiasts looking to leverage the full potential of these cutting-edge technologies.
Course Details
- Duration: The OpenAI Cookbook is designed to be used as a reference, with the time commitment varying depending on the complexity of the task at hand.
- Instructor: There is no single instructor; the Cookbook is a compilation of contributions from various experts at OpenAI.
Content Highlights for OpenAI Cookbook for ChatGPT, Dall-E, Whisper
- Comprehensive Coverage: From text generation with ChatGPT to creating stunning visuals with Dall-E and transcribing audio with Whisper, the course covers a wide array of applications.
- Practical Exercises: The on-demand videos are complemented by hands-on exercises that encourage learners to apply their knowledge in real-world scenarios.
- Advanced Techniques: Learn to fine-tune prompts for specific outcomes, integrate AI models into applications, and explore the latest features of these evolving technologies.
Fees of OpenAI Cookbook for ChatGPT, Dall-E, Whisper
The OpenAI Cookbook is freely accessible, making it an invaluable resource for developers and AI enthusiasts without any additional costs.
Student Reviews and Course Impact
The OpenAI Cookbook has garnered positive feedback on Product Hunt, with an impressive overall rating of 4.7/5 based on all-time reviews. Users have praised its utility across various professional roles highlighting the usefulness of the notebook examples for developing actual projects, indicating that the Cookbook serves as a practical reference for real-world applications.
Users appreciated the Cookbook for its assistance in creating complex prompts, suggesting its value in tackling more sophisticated AI challenges.
3. DeepLearning.AI: Prompt Engineering for Developers
DeepLearning.AI’s “Prompt Engineering for Developers” emerges as a pivotal resource for those looking to harness the power of Large Language Models (LLMs) like ChatGPT. This course, designed in collaboration with OpenAI, offers a concise yet rich learning experience, making it an excellent choice for developers eager to dive into prompt engineering.
Course Details
- Duration: 1.5-2 hours, making it an efficient deep dive into prompt engineering.
- Instructors: Isa Fulford and Andrew Ng, bringing a blend of hands-on experience and visionary leadership in AI.
Content Highlights for Course for DeepLearning.AI Prompt Engineering
- Practical Skills: Learn to summarize, infer, transform text, and expand on ideas, which are crucial for tasks like summarizing user reviews or writing emails.
- Hands-on Experience: Gain direct experience writing and iterating on prompts using the OpenAI API, which is invaluable for real-world application development.
- The course covers essential techniques such as summarizing, inferring, transforming text, and expanding content, providing a solid foundation in prompt engineering.
- It emphasizes practical applications, including building custom chatbots and refining prompts for better AI interactions.
Certification Costs for DeepLearning.AI Course for Prompt Engineering
Currently, the course is free for a limited time during the DeepLearning.AI learning platform beta, making it an irresistible offer for anyone interested in prompt engineering.
Student Reviews and Course Impact
Participants praise the course for its clarity, conciseness, and the practical skills it imparts. Many have reported significant improvements in their ability to leverage ChatGPT and other LLMs for development projects.
4. Professional Certificate in Machine Learning and Artificial Intelligence – UC Berkeley
The Professional Certificate in Machine Learning and Artificial Intelligence from UC Berkeley is a comprehensive program that stands out as one of the best options for professionals aiming to pivot or advance their careers in the dynamic field of AI and ML. Here’s a detailed review of this exceptional program:
Course Details
- Duration: 6 months, online with a commitment of 15–20 hours per week.
- Collaboration: Crafted in partnership with UC Berkeley’s College of Engineering and the Haas School of Business.
Content Highlights for the Prompt Engineering Course from UC Berkeley
- Three Main Sections: The program is divided into foundational concepts, ML/AI techniques, and advanced topics including a capstone project.
- Hands-On Experience: Practical applications are emphasized, with coding in Python and using tools like Jupyter and Pandas.
Instructors’ Expertise and Teaching Style
Instructors like Gabriel Gomes and Joshua Hug bring a wealth of experience and a practical approach to teaching. Guest speakers share insights on successfully deploying ML/AI technologies.
Fees and Certification Costs of the Course
The program fee is $7,500, which is a significant investment in your professional development. Graduates receive a digital certificate, a valuable addition to their professional credentials.
Student Reviews and Course Impact
Students report that the program has equipped them with market-ready skills, opening doors to new opportunities. The program has a high satisfaction rate, with many alumni successfully transitioning to sought-after roles in the industry.
5. James Bachini: Advanced MidJourney Prompt Engineering
James Bachini’s “Advanced MidJourney Prompt Engineering” is a specialized resource that caters to artists and creators looking to leverage the MidJourney AI to generate compelling images.
Course Details
- Focus: The guide is tailored to the nuances of MidJourney, an AI system designed for image creation.
- Tips and Tricks: It provides specific tips for crafting prompts that produce coherent and aesthetically pleasing results.
- Instructor: James Bachini, an experienced AI art enthusiast and educator, shares his insights and techniques for crafting effective prompts.
Content Highlights of Advanced MidJourney Prompt Engineering Course
- Concise Prompts: Learn how to create prompts that are clear and concise, focusing on 2-3 core concepts for optimal results.
- Negative Prompting: Discover how to use negative prompting techniques, such as the “-no” syntax, to exclude unwanted elements from your generated images.
- Practical Tips: The course is filled with practical tips and tricks, such as avoiding negative words like “not” or “without” in your prompts.
Certification Costs of Advanced MidJourney Prompt Engineering Course
James Bachini’s guide is freely available, providing cost-effective access to advanced prompt engineering techniques.
Student Reviews and Course Impact
Students consistently praise the course for its practical, actionable insights and the immediate impact it has on their AI art generation skills. Many learners report significant improvements in their prompting workflows and the quality of their generated art after completing the course.
6. Class Central: Prompt Engineering Specialization
Class Central’s Prompt Engineering Specialization is a curated selection of courses that cater to a wide range of learners, from those seeking a quick introduction to those looking for in-depth knowledge and certification in prompt engineering. Here’s a detailed review of what makes this specialization a top choice for anyone interested in mastering the art of prompt engineering.
Course Details
- Duration: The specialization includes multiple courses ranging from 30 minutes to 10+ hours, offering flexibility to learners with different time commitments.
- Instructors: Courses are taught by experts from top universities like Vanderbilt University and Arizona State University, ensuring high-quality instruction
Content Highlights for Class Central’s Prompt Engineering Specialization
- Diverse Topics: From JavaScript and legal templates to chatbot prompts and blogging, the courses cover a broad spectrum of applications.
- Practical Applications: Learn to automate tasks, increase productivity, and augment human intelligence with large language models like ChatGPT.
Certification Costs of Class Central’s Prompt Engineering Specialization
Many courses within the specialization are free or free to audit, with options to pay for certification if desired.
Student Reviews and Course Impact
Students appreciate the course for providing a clear introduction to creating effective prompts for ChatGPT and explaining technical concepts in a way that was easy to understand. While the course is highly recommended for beginners and praised for its concise, bite-sized videos, some feedback suggested a desire for more practical examples and real-world use cases to further illustrate the concepts covered.
7. DeepLearning.AI: Prompt Engineering with Llama 2
DeepLearning.AI’s “Prompt Engineering with Llama 2” is a short course that packs a punch for anyone interested in leveraging the latest in AI technology. Here’s a detailed review of why this course might just be the best option for you.
Course Details
- Duration: The course is a quick dive into prompt engineering, lasting approximately 1 hour.
- Instructor: Amit Sangani leads the course, providing insights into best practices for prompting Llama 2 models.
Content Highlights for Prompt Engineering with Llama 2
- Model Interaction: Learn to interact with Meta Llama 2 Chat, Code Llama, and Llama Guard models.
- Best Practices: The course covers best practices for prompting and building applications with Llama 2 models.
- Safe AI Applications: Emphasis on building safe, responsible AI applications using the Llama Guard model.
Fees and Certification Costs for Prompt Engineering with Llama 2
The course is currently free for a limited time during the DeepLearning.AI learning platform beta, making it an accessible option for all.
Student Reviews and Course Impact
The “Prompt Engineering with Llama 2” course by DeepLearning.AI has received positive feedback for its practical approach to teaching prompt engineering. Students have particularly appreciated the course’s focus on real-world applications, such as book PDF querying, payroll auditing, and hotel review analytics. These practical exercises are highlighted as a strong point of the course, providing learners with hands-on experience that directly translates to challenges businesses face daily.
8. Fast & Free Prompt Engineering Course with Cheat Sheets
The Fast & Free Prompt Engineering Course with Cheat Sheets on Codecademy is a gem for those looking to swiftly enhance their AI interaction skills. Here’s why this course stands out as one of the best options for prompt engineering enthusiasts.
Course Details
- Duration: The course is designed to be completed in about 1 hour, perfect for a quick yet thorough learning experience.
Course Structure and Content Highlights
- Concise Lessons: The course is structured into 6 lessons, 2 projects, and 5 quizzes, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of prompt engineering.
- Cheat Sheets: Handy cheat sheets are provided for quick reference, aiding in the immediate application of concepts learned.
Student Reviews and Course Impact
Students have praised the course for providing foundational general knowledge and for teaching how to write prompts more effectively. Comments from verified learners reflect the course’s effectiveness in clarifying the use of ChatGPT and its benefits in everyday life.
]The practical projects and quizzes add to the hands-on experience, making it a quick learning path for immediate application in personal and professional settings.
9. DeepLearning.AI: Short Courses in Generative AI
DeepLearning.AI’s Short Courses in Generative AI offer a unique and focused learning experience for those eager to explore the world of generative artificial intelligence. These courses, designed to quickly bring learners up to speed on key concepts and applications, stand out as one of the best options for prompt engineering and beyond. Here’s a detailed review of what makes these courses a must-attend.
Course Details
- Duration: Each course is designed to be completed in about 1 hour, making them accessible for busy schedules.
- Instructors: Courses are led by industry experts, including collaborations with AWS, ensuring learners receive top-notch instruction.
Content Highlights for DeepLearning.AI’s Short Courses in Generative AI
- Diverse Topics: The specialization covers a range of subjects from foundational prompt engineering to advanced applications like knowledge graphs and the LangChain framework.
- Practical Applications: Learners will engage with real-world applications, including building a question-answering system and understanding how to use embeddings and vector stores.
Certification Costs for DeepLearning.AI’s Short Courses in Generative AI
DeepLearning.AI is currently offering its Short Courses for free for a limited time during the platform’s beta phase. This is a unique opportunity for learners to access high-quality educational content without any financial commitment.
Student Reviews and Course Impact
Students have highlighted the courses’ clarity, practicality, and the instructors’ expertise as key factors in their learning success. Many learners report using the skills acquired to tackle new challenges at work, start with personal projects, or even shift into new roles within the AI field.
10. The Complete Prompt Engineering for AI Bootcamp (Udemy)
“The Complete Prompt Engineering for AI Bootcamp” on Udemy is a comprehensive course that promises to be a game-changer for those looking to master the craft of communicating with AI. Here’s a detailed review of why this course is a top contender for the best in prompt engineering education.
Course Details
- Duration: The course offers 6.5 hours of video content, making it a substantial investment in your AI education.
- Content: It spans 17 sections, covering a wide array of topics from the basics to advanced practices
Content Highlights for The Complete Prompt Engineering for AI Bootcamp Course
- Five Pillars of Prompting: The course delves into the foundational aspects of prompt engineering, ensuring a solid base for learners.
- Wide Range of Tools: It covers various AI models, including ChatGPT, Midjourney, GitHub Copilot, GPT-3, DALL-E2, and Stable Diffusion.
- Advanced Practices: Learners will explore advanced text and image model practices and tactics, preparing them for complex prompt engineering tasks.
Certification Costs for The Complete Prompt Engineering for AI Bootcamp
The course is priced at $799, with a 31% discount currently available, making it a premium option for those serious about their prompt engineering education.
Student Reviews and Course Impact
Students appreciate the course’s depth and breadth, enabling them to immediately apply their new skills in various settings.
11. Prompt Engineering for Everyone with ChatGPT and GPT-4 – Udemy
“Prompt Engineering for Everyone with ChatGPT and GPT-4” on Udemy is a standout course designed to demystify the world of AI for beginners and enthusiasts alike. Here’s a detailed review of why this course is a top pick for those eager to learn more about prompt engineering.
Course Details
- Target Audience: Perfect for beginners, this course requires no prior experience in AI or programming.
- Hands-on Experience: Offers a free hands-on experience with ChatGPT in a virtual playground, making learning interactive and engaging.
- Instructor: Andrei Gheorghiu
Content Highlights for Prompt Engineering for Everyone with ChatGPT and GPT-4
- Comprehensive Curriculum: The course covers essential AI concepts and the significance of prompt engineering, providing a solid foundation for learners.
- Practical Applications: It emphasizes real-world applications of ChatGPT and GPT-4, preparing students to apply their knowledge immediately.
Certification Costs for Prompt Engineering for Everyone with ChatGPT and GPT-4
The course on Udemy is currently available for INR 799. With a 25% sale, this course becomes even more accessible to those interested in diving into the world of AI and prompt engineering. The price of the course makes it an affordable option for learners worldwide.
Student Reviews and Course Impact
Students are expected to appreciate the course’s practical approach, enabling them to apply what they’ve learned in various settings immediately. The course’s focus on beginner-friendly content and hands-on experience has garnered positive reviews from learners.
12. OpenAI API Documentation on Prompt Engineering
The OpenAI API Documentation on Prompt Engineering is a valuable resource that provides in-depth guidance on crafting effective prompts for AI models like ChatGPT. Here’s a detailed review of what makes this documentation a standout option:
The Prompt Engineering guide is an official resource from OpenAI, the creators of ChatGPT and other cutting-edge language models. It serves as a comprehensive reference for understanding and mastering the art of prompt engineering.
Content Highlights of the OpenAI API Documentation on Prompt Engineering
- Best Practices: The guide covers essential best practices for prompt engineering, such as separating instructions from content, using specific language, and defining desired output formats.
- Advanced Techniques: It delves into advanced techniques like few-shot learning, chain-of-thought prompting, and using external tools to augment AI capabilities.
- Practical Examples: Numerous practical examples are provided, illustrating how to apply the techniques to various tasks, from summarization to code generation.
OpenAI API Documentation on Prompt Engineering is Free!
The OpenAI API Documentation on Prompt Engineering is indeed a free resource, accessible to anyone interested in learning the art and science of prompt engineering. This comprehensive guide offers a wealth of information, from best practices to advanced techniques, without any cost to the reader.
Reader Reviews and Impact
The guide’s comprehensive nature and practical examples suggest it is well-received and impactful for those seeking to improve their prompt engineering skills. By mastering the techniques outlined in the guide, users can unlock the full potential of AI models for a wide range of advanced applications, from content generation to data analysis.
How to Choose the Best Prompt Engineering Course?
When it comes to selecting the perfect prompt engineering course, there are several factors to consider to ensure you make the most of your learning journey. Here are some key points to keep in mind:
- Skill Level: Assess your current knowledge and choose a course that aligns with your expertise. Some courses cater to beginners, while others are geared towards intermediate or advanced learners.
- Course Content: Look for courses that cover the topics you’re most interested in, whether it’s the fundamentals of prompt engineering, advanced techniques, or specific applications like AI art generation.
- Instructor Expertise: Consider the instructor’s background and experience in the field. Courses taught by industry experts or university professors can provide valuable insights and a deeper understanding of the subject matter.
- Learning Format: Decide whether you prefer self-paced online courses, video lectures, or more interactive learning experiences. Some courses offer hands-on practice with AI tools, while others focus on theoretical concepts.
- Time Commitment: Evaluate how much time you can dedicate to learning and choose a course that fits your schedule. Some courses are designed to be completed in a few weeks, while others offer a more flexible, self-paced approach.
- Cost and Certification: Consider your budget and whether you’re looking to earn a certification. Some courses are free, while others require a fee. Determine if the cost aligns with the value you expect to gain from the course.
- Community and Support: Look for courses that offer a supportive learning community or access to the instructor for questions and guidance. Engaging with fellow learners can enhance your understanding and provide valuable networking opportunities.
By carefully considering these factors, you’ll be well-equipped to choose a prompt engineering course that meets your learning goals, fits your schedule, and provides the knowledge and skills you need to succeed in this exciting field.
Answering the FAQs Related to AI Prompt Engineering Courses
What Skills are Needed for Prompt Engineering?
Key skills include understanding how language models work, creativity in prompt design, attention to detail, and the ability to iterate and refine prompts based on results.
Are there any Prerequisites for taking a Prompt Engineering Course?
Most introductory courses don’t require prior technical knowledge, but some advanced courses may require familiarity with programming, machine learning, or natural language processing concepts.
What are the Best Online Platforms for Prompt Engineering Courses?
Popular platforms include Coursera, Udemy, edX, and platforms by companies like DeepLearning.AI, OpenAI, and IBM. Universities like Vanderbilt also offer specialized programs.
What topics are typically covered in Prompt Engineering Courses?
Common topics include language model basics, prompt design principles, advanced techniques like few-shot learning, evaluating outputs, and specific applications like code generation or data analysis.
Do Prompt Engineering Courses offer Certificates or Credentials?
Many paid courses offer certificates of completion, which can be valuable for professional development and demonstrating expertise to potential employers.
How Important is Hands-on Practice in Prompt Engineering Courses?
Hands-on projects and exercises are crucial for developing practical prompt engineering skills, so courses with interactive components are generally preferred.
Wrapping Up
So there you have it – a diverse range of courses to kickstart your journey into AI prompt engineering. Whether you’re a complete beginner or looking to enhance your existing skills, these programs offer something for everyone. The key is finding the right fit based on your goals, learning style, and schedule.
Don’t let the opportunity to master this in-demand skill pass you by. With AI rapidly transforming industries, prompt engineers will be at the forefront, shaping how we interact with and take advantage of these powerful technologies.
Keep an eye out for updates and new resources, as the field of AI is always developing. Your journey to becoming a prompt engineering wizard is just a click away!
