RCSI launches free online course on AI in healthcare in collaboration with Microsoft

RCSI University of Medicine and Health Sciences, in partnership with Microsoft Ireland, has launched a free-to-access online course on Artificial Intelligence (AI) in healthcare, designed to equip healthcare professionals and managers with practical knowledge on AI applications, ethics, and governance. The course was officially launched by Jack Chambers TD, Minister for Public Expenditure, Infrastructure, Public Service Reform and Digitalisation.

Open to all healthcare workers globally with no prior AI experience required, the course covers AI fundamentals, clinical and administrative applications, and ethical frameworks for safe AI use. Content is self-paced and estimated to take around ten hours, including quizzes, reflective exercises, and a final knowledge check.

Minister Chambers welcomed the initiative, noting, “Empowering healthcare professionals with the knowledge and skills to harness AI safely and effectively is vital. This new RCSI course ensures digital innovation translates into better outcomes for patients and a more resilient health system.”

Sara McDonnell, Executive Director of RCSI Graduate School of Healthcare Management and RCSI Online, emphasised the programme’s role in digital transformation: “Increasing awareness and understanding of AI among healthcare professionals will help ensure technology is used responsibly and effectively to enhance patient outcomes.”

“This course puts practical skills in the hands of healthcare professionals so AI is applied safely and ethically. Initiatives like this ensure healthcare teams have the confidence and capability to harness AI for better patient outcomes,” Catherine Doyle, Microsoft Ireland General Manager said.

Participants gain insights into integrating AI safely into everyday healthcare practice, supporting Ireland’s National AI Strategy and advancing global digital health education. Discover more in the full article.