# AI Certifications Are Everywhere - Here's How to Spot the One That Builds Skills

> Source: <https://dev.to/akash_saini_52d287ad694e5/ai-certifications-are-everywhere-heres-how-to-spot-the-one-that-builds-skills-3oco>
> Published: 2026-06-15 12:23:29+00:00

I decided to take an online AI and ML post-graduation course during my graduation from Amity. When I started comparing some programmes, three names stood out: IIT Kharagpur's Applied AI & ML EPGC, Simplilearn, and Great Learning.

Simplilearn - Modular, tool-focused Generative AI programs (like the Applied GenAI program with Microsoft Azure) offering flexible, business-relevant projects across separate short courses.

Great Learning - University-backed PG programs (with UT Austin McCombs, Johns Hopkins, etc.) covering Python through Generative AI with mentorship, though depth varies by track.

IIT Kharagpur's Applied AI & ML EPGC - An 8-month, 100% live programme run entirely by IIT KGP's own AI department, covering ML, Deep Learning, NLP, GenAI, Agentic AI, RAG, and MLOps with 6 projects and a capstone.

I went for IIT KGP Online…

After comparing the real-life experiences and curriculum, for me, what makes this programme different is that it isn't a patchwork of borrowed modules; it's a complete 8-month journey designed and delivered by IIT KGP's own AI department, with every concept taught alongside real-world deployment.
