10 Best Prompt Engineering Courses (April 2024)

In the ever-evolving landscape of artificial intelligence, the art of prompt engineering has emerged as a pivotal skill set for professionals and enthusiasts alike. As AI systems, particularly language models like GPT, become increasingly sophisticated, the ability to effectively communicate with these models has gained paramount importance. Prompt engineering, essentially, is the craft of designing inputs that guide these AI systems to produce the most accurate, relevant, and creative outputs.

But what exactly is prompt engineering, and why has it become such a buzzword in the tech community?

Prompt engineering is the art and science of crafting inputs (or “prompts”) to effectively guide and interact with generative AI models, particularly large language models (LLMs) like ChatGPT. It involves formulating questions or statements in a way that leverages the capabilities of AI to produce specific, relevant, and accurate outputs.

This field sits at the intersection of linguistics, computer science, and creative thinking. It requires an understanding of how AI models process information and a creative touch to tailor prompts that align with the desired outcome. The goal is to maximize the efficiency and applicability of AI responses, whether it's generating text, code, images, or even engaging in complex problem-solving.

In recognition of this burgeoning field, we have curated a list of the best prompt engineering courses. Whether you are a seasoned AI practitioner or a curious newcomer, these courses offer invaluable insights into the nuances of prompt engineering. From understanding the basic principles of language models to mastering advanced techniques for specific applications, these courses cover a wide spectrum of knowledge and skills.

1. Prompt Engineering Specialization (Vanderbilt University)

The “Prompt Engineering Specialization” offered by Vanderbilt University is an exceptional program designed to transform learners into experts in prompt engineering. This comprehensive series of three courses takes you from the fundamentals to advanced techniques, enabling you to harness the full potential of Generative AI. The specialization is centered around practical, hands-on learning, ensuring that students don't just understand the theories but can effectively apply them in various contexts.

The specialization starts with the “Prompt Engineering for ChatGPT” course, which spans 18 hours and has an impressive rating of 4.8 from over 2,000 participants. Here, learners delve into the art of crafting prompts for large language models like ChatGPT, learning how to leverage their capabilities for a range of applications. The second course, “ChatGPT Advanced Data Analysis,” focuses on automating tasks using ChatGPT's code interpreter. This 10-hour course, also highly rated at 4.8, teaches students to automate document handling and data extraction, among other skills. The final course, “Trustworthy Generative AI,” is an 8-hour journey into ensuring reliability and trust in AI outputs.

Key Features

• In-Depth Learning: From basic concepts to advanced skills in prompt engineering.
• Hands-On Projects: Practical exercises to build and refine your prompt engineering skills.
• Diverse Applications: Learn to apply these skills in various contexts like automation, data analysis, and problem-solving.
• Applied Learning Project: Real-world applications, from social media posts to complex problem-solving using AI.
• Expert Instruction: Learn from university and industry experts in the field.
• Certification: Earn a career-enhancing certificate from Vanderbilt University.

This course is ideal for individuals looking to deeply understand and effectively apply prompt engineering in their professional, academic, or personal endeavors.

2. Generative AI: Prompt Engineering Basics (IBM)

“Generative AI: Prompt Engineering Basics” offered by IBM is an essential course for beginners looking to establish a strong foundation in the field of prompt engineering. This 7-hour course is tailored to provide a flexible learning experience, perfect for professionals, students, and enthusiasts who are eager to explore the world of generative AI. The course is structured to impart a comprehensive understanding of prompt engineering concepts, best practices, and practical techniques.

The course is divided into three well-structured modules, each focusing on different aspects of prompt engineering. Module 1 introduces the concept of prompt engineering in generative AI, emphasizing best practices for writing effective prompts. Module 2 delves deeper into specific techniques and approaches to enhance the precision and relevance of generative AI model responses. The final module includes a graded quiz, a hands-on project, and optional content that extends into image generation prompts and the use of IBM's Prompt Lab tool.

Key Features

• Beginner-Friendly: Designed for a wide audience, including professionals and enthusiasts with no prior experience.
• Flexible Learning: Learn at your own pace with a course structure that accommodates different schedules.
• Comprehensive Modules: Covering fundamental concepts, techniques, and hands-on practice in prompt engineering.
• Diverse Techniques: Explore zero-shot, few-shot, Interview Pattern, Chain-of-Thought, and Tree-of-Thought techniques.
• Industry Tools: Introduction to tools like IBM Watsonx Prompt Lab, Spellbook, and Dust for practical prompt engineering.
• Hands-On Experience: Engage in labs and a final project to apply the learned concepts in real-world scenarios.
• Industry Expert Insights: Gain insights from practitioners about effective prompt crafting and tool utilization.
• Career Certificate: Earn a shareable certificate upon completion, adding value to your professional profile.

This course is an excellent choice for those starting their journey in prompt engineering, offering a solid grounding in the field and equipping learners with the skills to effectively guide AI models towards desired outcomes.

3. Prompt Engineering with Generative AI (edureka)

Edureka's “Prompt Engineering with Generative AI” course is an expertly crafted program by leading industry professionals, designed for individuals keen on delving into AI-driven creativity and practical applications of prompt engineering. This comprehensive course is tailored to empower learners with the skills to effectively utilize prompts for generating customized text, code, and more, transforming the landscape of problem-solving. It's an ideal platform for anyone aiming to be a pioneer in the field of artificial intelligence innovation.

The course unfolds through five in-depth modules, each focusing on a distinct aspect of prompt engineering and generative AI. It begins with “Generative AI and its Industry Applications,” introducing the principles of Generative AI, various generative models, their applications, and ethical considerations. The journey continues with “NLP and Deep Learning,” diving into the essentials of Natural Language Processing, deep learning's role in NLP, and foundational concepts of neural networks. The third module, “Autoencoders and GANs,” ventures into the realms of autoencoders and Generative Adversarial Networks, exploring their architecture, training, and diverse applications.

As the course progresses, “Language Models and Transformer-based Generative Models” take center stage, shedding light on different language models, the Transformer architecture, and advanced models like GPT and BERT. The culminating module, “Prompt Engineering,” is dedicated entirely to the principles and practices of prompt engineering, encompassing prompt design strategies, types of prompting, and the art of crafting effective prompts.

Key Features

• Expertly Curated Content: Developed by industry leaders to ensure relevance and practicality.
• Wide-Ranging Curriculum: Encompasses everything from AI fundamentals to sophisticated prompt engineering techniques.
• Focus on Practical Applications: Strong emphasis on using prompts for real-world problem-solving across various domains.
• Detailed Modular Approach: Each module provides thorough insights into specific areas of generative AI and prompt engineering.
• Up-to-Date Industry Topics: Includes the latest developments in AI models and their applications.
• Hands-On Learning: Opportunities for practical application and experimentation with diverse AI tools and models.
• Career Advancement: Ideal for professionals seeking to integrate advanced AI skills into their skillset.

This course is a perfect fit for those seeking a comprehensive understanding of generative AI and its practical applications in prompt engineering, offering valuable knowledge and skills for any AI professional or enthusiast.

4. ChatGPT Complete Course: Beginners to Advanced (edureka)

The “ChatGPT Complete Course: Beginners to Advanced” is a comprehensive program designed for those eager to master generative AI with a focus on ChatGPT. This course covers prompt engineering, plugin integration, and ChatGPT API usage, and offers insights into the latest developments like GPT-4 and ChatGPT Plus. It's tailored for learners who aim to excel in the ever-evolving digital tech space.

The course is structured into five key modules, each offering a unique perspective on ChatGPT and its applications:

1. Unveiling ChatGPT covers the basics of Generative AI and ChatGPT, including its applications and the future of human-AI collaboration.
2. Prompt Engineering and ChatGPT Plugins delves into prompt engineering fundamentals, its applications, and enhancing ChatGPT responses.
3. ChatGPT for Productivity showcases the use of ChatGPT in various fields such as data science, marketing, and project management.
4. ChatGPT for Developers focuses on programming, debugging, and API integrations with ChatGPT.
5. GPT Models and Fine-tuning ChatGPT explores the architecture and fine-tuning of GPT models, including data preparation and training processes.

This course structure ensures a holistic learning experience, combining theoretical knowledge with practical applications.

Key Features

• Comprehensive Curriculum: Covering ChatGPT from basics to advanced applications.
• Practical Projects: Real-life case studies for hands-on learning.
• Emphasis on Prompt Engineering: Focused on prompt engineering and ChatGPT API integrations.
• Latest AI Advancements: Insights into developments like GPT-4 and ChatGPT Plus.
• Versatile Toolset Exposure: Including Python, Java, TensorFlow, and Keras.
• Career Enhancement: Ideal for individuals aiming to enhance their skills in AI and digital technology.

This course is a valuable resource for anyone from beginners to advanced learners seeking to delve into the world of ChatGPT and its diverse applications.

5. Prompt Engineering for ChatGPT (Vanderbilt University)

“Prompt Engineering for ChatGPT” by Vanderbilt University is a course that equips learners with the expertise to work effectively with large language models like ChatGPT. Part of the Prompt Engineering Specialization program, it is designed to demonstrate the transformative power of prompt engineering in various aspects of life and business; this course is perfect for anyone aspiring to master the use of generative AI tools.

The course is structured into six modules, focusing on the significance of ChatGPT and similar large language models in a range of applications. It begins by emphasizing the importance of understanding how these models respond to natural language prompts. The curriculum progresses from basic prompt crafting to sophisticated techniques, aimed at solving complex problems across different domains.

Learners will explore the vast potential of ChatGPT in tasks like writing, summarization, game play, planning, simulation, and programming. The course is designed to build strong prompt engineering skills, making students proficient in using large language models for diverse tasks in their jobs, businesses, and personal lives.

Key Features

• Comprehensive Curriculum: Focused on effective prompt engineering for large language models.
• Practical Application: Showcases diverse uses of ChatGPT in personal and professional contexts.
• Skill Development: Emphasizes building strong prompt writing skills for enhanced productivity.
• Broad Audience Appeal: Suitable for anyone with basic computer usage skills.
• Problem-Solving Focus: Equips learners to tackle complex problems using prompt engineering.

This course is ideal for individuals looking to delve deep into the world of generative AI, offering a gateway to becoming proficient in the rapidly evolving field of prompt engineering.

6. ChatGPT Prompt Engineering for Developers (DeepLearning.AI/OpenAI)

“ChatGPT Prompt Engineering for Developers,” a course offered by DeepLearning.AI, is designed to immerse aspiring prompt engineers into the art of generating precise and engaging AI responses. Created by Isa Fulford from OpenAI and Andrew Ng from DeepLearning.AI, this course goes beyond the basics of prompt creation for web interfaces, focusing on leveraging LLMs through API calls for building generative AI applications.

This course stands out for its practical approach, incorporating real-world examples to provide a thorough understanding of prompt engineering. It starts with best practices in prompting software development, covering essential areas such as summarizing complex information, inferring from incomplete data, transforming text styles, and expanding ideas into detailed narratives using advanced machine learning techniques.

Additionally, the course delves into efficient management of prompt libraries, a crucial skill for prompt engineering roles. It caters to a wide range of learners, from beginners with a basic understanding of Python to advanced machine learning engineers seeking to explore the forefront of prompt engineering and the use of LLMs.

Key Features

• In-Depth Learning: Offers a comprehensive guide on prompt engineering for developers.
• Practical Approach: Emphasizes real-world applications and practical examples.
• Diverse Skills Development: Covers summarizing, inferring, transforming, and expanding text using AI.
• Prompt Library Management: Teaches efficient organization and utilization of prompt libraries.
• Wide Audience Appeal: Suitable for beginners with basic Python knowledge and advanced engineers.
• Expert Creators: Developed by renowned professionals from OpenAI and DeepLearning.AI.

This course is ideal for anyone aiming to master prompt engineering, whether starting out or looking to advance in the field, providing essential skills for leveraging AI in software development.

7. Introductory Course on Prompt Engineering (LearnPrompting)

LearnPrompting's “Introductory Course on Prompt Engineering” offers an ideal entry point into the world of AI prompt engineering. This free course is tailored for both beginners and advanced learners, providing a comprehensive overview of AI concepts and intricate prompt engineering techniques. Renowned for its high-quality content and effectiveness, the course is a foundational guide in the complexities of generative artificial intelligence, crucial in the modern landscape of computer science.

The course is thoughtfully structured, starting with an introduction to AI systems and their applications, before delving into the basics of prompt engineering. It addresses how input prompts function within language models like ChatGPT. The in-depth learning modules further explore topics like neural networks and machine learning techniques, making complex subjects accessible and understandable.

A standout feature of this course is its hands-on approach, offering students practical experience with real-world generative AI applications. This not only enhances theoretical knowledge but also equips learners with practical skills applicable to prompt engineering roles or similar positions involving AI models.

The course covers a range of topics including prompting, role prompting, few-shot prompting, combining techniques, formalizing prompts, chatbot basics, LLM settings, and the pitfalls of LLMs. Visual aids and examples accompany each concept, ensuring an engaging and contextual learning experience.

Key Features

• Comprehensive Coverage: From basic AI concepts to advanced prompt engineering techniques.
• Accessible Learning: Breaks down complex topics into easily understandable modules.
• Practical Experience: Hands-on work with real-world AI applications.
• Diverse Topics: In-depth exploration of various aspects of prompt engineering.
• Engaging Teaching Methods: Use of visual aids and examples to enhance understanding.
• Free Access: Making quality education in AI accessible to everyone.

This introductory course by LearnPrompting is perfect for anyone looking to step into the world of AI prompt engineering, offering a solid foundation and practical skills that are crucial for success in this field.

8. Building Systems with the ChatGPT API (DeepLearning.AI)

“Building Systems with the ChatGPT API” is a specialized course designed to teach efficient construction of multi-step systems using large language models. This course is ideal for learners looking to automate complex workflows and unlock new development capabilities. Taught by Isa Fulford from OpenAI and Andrew Ng from DeepLearning.AI, it builds on their popular “ChatGPT Prompt Engineering for Developers” and gives insights into creating sophisticated systems that interact dynamically with AI models.

The course is concise yet packed with practical knowledge. It centers around the concept of using multistage prompts to split complex tasks into a pipeline of subtasks, enhancing the efficiency and functionality of LLMs. Key learning points include:

• Developing chains of prompts that build upon the completions of prior prompts.
• Creating systems where Python code interacts with both AI completions and new prompts.
• Building a customer service chatbot using all the techniques covered in the course.

Learners will also gain skills in classifying user queries, evaluating queries for safety, and processing tasks for chain-of-thought, multi-step reasoning. Despite being a one-hour course, it provides a comprehensive understanding of practical applications, including hands-on examples and built-in Jupyter notebooks for experimenting with the concepts taught.

Key Features

• Efficient System Building: Learn to construct multi-step systems using LLMs.
• Practical Learning Approach: Hands-on examples for easy comprehension of concepts.
• Expert Instruction: Taught by industry experts Isa Fulford and Andrew Ng.
• Interactive Learning Tools: Built-in Jupyter notebooks for practical experimentation.
• Advanced Techniques: Focus on multistage prompts and Python code interactions.
• Real-World Applications: Skills applicable to customer service chatbots and safety evaluations.

This course is perfect for individuals who have some familiarity with AI and are looking to enhance their skills in building advanced, AI-driven systems. Whether you've completed the “ChatGPT Prompt Engineering for Developers” course or are just starting, this course offers valuable insights into the practical applications of the ChatGPT API.

9. Generative AI Fundamentals Specialization (IBM)

The “Generative AI Fundamentals Specialization” by IBM is a comprehensive program designed to impart a deep understanding of generative AI's fundamental concepts, models, tools, and applications. This specialization is ideal for anyone looking to leverage the potential of generative AI in enhancing their workplace, career, and overall life. It's suitable for professionals from all fields and does not require prior technical knowledge or a background in AI.

The specialization consists of five short, self-paced courses, each taking approximately 3–5 hours to complete. These courses cover a range of topics, including:

1. Fundamental concepts and capabilities of generative AI foundation models.
2. Powerful prompt engineering techniques to write effective prompts for desired AI outcomes.
3. Building blocks and foundation models of generative AI, like GPT, DALL-E, and IBM Granite.
4. Ethical implications and considerations of generative AI.
5. Practical applications of generative AI to boost careers and productivity.

The specialization also includes hands-on labs and projects, allowing learners to practice using popular tools and platforms such as IBM watsonx.ai, OpenAI ChatGPT, Stable Diffusion, and Hugging Face. These labs provide practical experience with text, image, and code generation, prompt engineering tools, and foundation models.

Key Features

• Comprehensive Understanding: Gain a thorough insight into generative AI concepts, tools, and applications.
• Practical Prompt Engineering: Learn to write effective prompts for generative AI models.
• Ethical Awareness: Discuss the limitations and ethical considerations of generative AI.
• Career Enhancement: Recognize the potential of generative AI to improve professional skills and workplace efficiency.
• Hands-On Learning: Engage in labs and projects using popular AI tools and platforms.
• Accessibility: Suitable for learners with no prior AI background, benefiting professionals from various fields.

This specialization is a valuable resource for anyone passionate about unlocking the capabilities of generative AI and applying them in a professional context. It offers practical knowledge and skills, making it an ideal learning path for those new to the field or looking to enhance their understanding of generative AI technologies.

10. Generative AI for Everyone (DeepLearning.AI)

“Generative AI for Everyone” by DeepLearning.AI, instructed by AI pioneer Andrew Ng, offers a unique and accessible approach to understanding generative AI. This course is tailored for those seeking a foundational grasp of what generative AI is, how it works, its potential, and its limitations. It is designed to empower individuals and professionals to incorporate generative AI into their work effectively.

The course is structured into three insightful modules:

1. Intro to Generative AI: This module introduces the basics of generative AI, including its common use cases and technological capabilities.
2. Generative AI Projects: Here, learners engage in hands-on exercises, applying generative AI in practical scenarios and learning effective prompt engineering.
3. Generative AI in Business and Society: This module explores the broader impact of generative AI on businesses and society, delving into its opportunities and risks.

Throughout the course, Andrew Ng guides learners through the nuances of generative AI, offering insights into real-world applications and common use cases. The course emphasizes practical experience, with exercises designed to apply knowledge in everyday work situations and explore advanced AI uses.

Key Features

• Foundational Understanding: Learn the essentials of generative AI, its functions, and its limits.
• Practical Projects: Hands-on exercises for applying generative AI in various contexts.
• Expert Guidance: Instruction from renowned AI expert Andrew Ng.
• Business and Societal Impact: Insight into the implications of generative AI for business and society.
• Accessible to All: Designed to make AI knowledge available to everyone, regardless of prior experience.
• Empowering Approach: Equips learners to participate actively in the AI-powered future.

Generative AI for Everyone is an ideal course for anyone looking to understand and apply generative AI in their work and life. It offers a comprehensive yet accessible entry point into the world of AI, making it an excellent choice for beginners and those looking to expand their knowledge in this field.

Navigating the AI Landscape Through Prompt Engineering

These top AI prompt engineering courses offer a comprehensive guide into the evolving world of AI, catering to a wide range of learners from beginners to advanced practitioners. These courses not only equip individuals with the technical know-how of prompt engineering but also open doors to innovative applications in various fields. As AI continues to shape our digital landscape, mastering prompt engineering becomes crucial, empowering users to effectively communicate with and leverage AI technologies. Whether for career advancement, personal growth, or academic pursuits, these courses provide the foundational skills needed to navigate and excel in the dynamic realm of AI.