Generative AI Software Engineering Specialization course Syllabus
Full curriculum breakdown — modules, lessons, estimated time, and outcomes.
This specialization is designed for software engineers looking to integrate generative AI into real-world development workflows. The course spans approximately 16-21 weeks of part-time study, with hands-on projects and practical applications throughout. You'll gain experience using AI across the software development lifecycle—from coding and testing to documentation and deployment—while learning responsible and secure AI practices. Each module combines theory with coding exercises, preparing you to build AI-enhanced applications in realistic engineering contexts.
Module 1: Foundations of Generative AI for Software Engineers
Estimated time: 12 hours
- Introduction to generative AI concepts and capabilities
- Understanding Large Language Models (LLMs) and transformer architectures
- How generative AI differs from traditional AI/ML systems
- Real-world use cases of generative AI in software engineering
Module 2: AI-Assisted Software Development
Estimated time: 16 hours
- Using generative AI for writing and refactoring code
- Techniques for effective prompt engineering in development
- AI-assisted code review and best practices
- Debugging and problem-solving with AI tools
Module 3: Testing, Documentation, and Productivity with AI
Estimated time: 12 hours
- Generating test cases and unit tests using AI
- Automating technical documentation with generative models
- Improving developer productivity through AI integration
- Supporting CI/CD and DevOps workflows with AI
Module 4: Responsible and Secure AI in Software Engineering
Estimated time: 8 hours
- Ethical considerations in AI-powered development
- Understanding risks: hallucinations, bias, and security vulnerabilities
- Best practices for data privacy and AI governance
Module 5: Capstone Project: Building AI-Enhanced Software Solutions
Estimated time: 24 hours
- Design an AI-enhanced software application
- Integrate generative AI APIs into real workflows
- Implement end-to-end AI-assisted development practices
Module 6: Final Project
Estimated time: 24 hours
- Deliverable 1: Functional software solution using generative AI
- Deliverable 2: Documentation and test suite generated with AI
- Deliverable 3: Presentation of AI integration and ethical considerations
Prerequisites
- Basic programming knowledge in any modern language
- Familiarity with software development workflows
- Understanding of fundamental coding concepts (variables, functions, control structures)
What You'll Be Able to Do After
- Apply generative AI to real software engineering tasks like coding and debugging
- Generate and maintain test cases and documentation using AI tools
- Integrate AI APIs into development workflows and applications
- Practice responsible AI use, addressing bias, security, and ethics
- Demonstrate end-to-end AI-assisted software development skills