Cloud Security Alliance & Northeastern launch AI safety course
The Cloud Security Alliance has introduced a new certification programme in collaboration with Northeastern University aimed at equipping professionals with essential skills for the responsible management and development of artificial intelligence systems.
The programme, titled the Trusted AI Safety Knowledge & Certification Programme, is designed to help professionals acquire the knowledge necessary to ensure the safe, secure, and ethical implementation of AI technology.
Participants will have the opportunity to earn either a certificate of knowledge or a professional certification through a series of training modules. Each module addresses a specific topic relating to AI safety, security or accountability, and includes an examination component to assess understanding.
Key topics covered in the coursework include ethical considerations, data governance, regulatory issues, cybersecurity, risk assessment, and the application of safety measures in AI deployment. The curriculum aims to provide detailed insights into AI safety principles, strategies for risk mitigation, and widely accepted best practices.
Jim Reavis, Chief Executive Officer and Co-founder of Cloud Security Alliance, commented on the changing landscape of workforce skills driven by the rise of artificial intelligence. "The dramatic rise of AI use across all business sectors is driving an equally dramatic shift in workforce skills, with companies increasingly seeking professionals with expertise in data analysis, data governance, AI technologies, and the ability to integrate AI into various processes," he said.
Reavis went on to highlight CSA's position in the field. "With 16 years of thought leadership, innovation, and global expertise, CSA is uniquely positioned to develop an AI professional certification programme. Building on the success of programmes like the AI Safety Initiative, we are committed to equipping professionals with the skills they need to responsibly and securely develop, deploy, and manage AI systems in an evolving landscape. We're looking forward to advancing additional opportunities for professional development with Northeastern University."
The coursework is self-paced and developed in collaboration with Northeastern University's Institute for Experiential AI, responsible AI specialists, and the Experiential Digital Global Education team, which focuses on online industry learning programmes.
The certification and examination will become available to industry learners later this year. The content has been tailored for a range of professionals, including AI safety officers, security architects, data scientists, developers, auditors, and compliance professionals. The goal is for participants across organisations to gain the expertise required to confidently perform their roles and support innovation alongside AI integration.
Ken Henderson, Chancellor and Senior Vice President for Learning at Northeastern University, commented on the joint initiative. "We have a long history of developing talent to accelerate innovation with industry. We are excited to partner with CSA in advancing AI safety technical skills, knowledge, and training for the AI-driven workforce. We look forward to educating and supporting industry leaders, enterprises, and cloud service providers to produce the responsible AI solutions the world needs," he said.
The partnership seeks to address the ongoing need for specialised training as artificial intelligence adoption increases in sectors such as financial services, healthcare, government, and technology. With the introduction of such certification, the Cloud Security Alliance and Northeastern University aim to bridge skills gaps and meet the growing business demand for knowledgeable professionals in AI safety and security.
