TLDR: The University of Arkansas at Little Rock (UA Little Rock) is significantly enhancing its Extended Education program by introducing three new artificial intelligence (AI) courses. These programs are designed to equip the Arkansas workforce with practical AI skills, catering to a diverse audience from business leaders and marketing professionals to individuals interested in everyday AI applications.
LITTLE ROCK, AR – The University of Arkansas at Little Rock (UA Little Rock) announced on August 26, 2025, a major expansion of its Extended Education program with the launch of three innovative courses focused on artificial intelligence. These new offerings are strategically designed to prepare Arkansas’s workforce for the evolving demands of the future by providing practical, hands-on experience with AI tools that are rapidly transforming various industries.
Marla Johnson, UA Little Rock’s distinguished tech-entrepreneur-in-residence and an instructor for several of these new courses, emphasized the broader impact of the initiative. “These courses are about more than learning technology. They’re about giving professionals the ability to apply AI to real business challenges, solve problems creatively, and gain a competitive edge,” Johnson stated. With over 30 years of experience in innovation and digital transformation, Johnson’s classes integrate strategy, tools, and practical application to ensure immediate relevance for participants.
The new curriculum includes three distinct programs:
Supercharge Your Marketing Strategy with AI: This four-week certificate program is tailored for marketing professionals. It will teach participants how to effectively leverage tools like ChatGPT and other AI technologies to accelerate campaign planning, uncover deeper customer insights, and generate content at scale.
Basics of AI for Better Living: A beginner-friendly, 1.5-hour course designed to introduce AI for everyday applications, such as planning travel or organizing hobbies. This accessible course aims to make AI approachable for non-technical learners, including seniors, retirees, and anyone curious about integrating AI into their daily lives. Sessions are scheduled for September 19 (3-4:30 p.m.) and October 17 (9:30-11 a.m.) in the Reynolds Business Building Room 108.
Customized AI Solutions for Business: This offering provides tailored AI consulting and training services to assist companies in integrating AI tools directly into their operations, marketing strategies, and customer engagement efforts.
Dr. Aaron Duvall, executive director of workforce development at UA Little Rock, highlighted the immediate applicability of the skills gained. “Whether someone is new to AI or looking to implement advanced solutions in their business, participants will leave these courses with actionable strategies they can apply right away,” Duvall affirmed.
Also Read:
- Great Andhra Announces Generative AI Program Commencing September 20
- Generative AI Initiatives Set to Bolster Workforce Development, With Ontario Leading Educational Push
Upon successful completion of the program, participants will earn an AI for Business Certificate, underscoring the university’s commitment to fostering a skilled and competitive workforce in Arkansas.
