Launch your future in Artificial Intelligence
Are you ready to step into one of the fastest-growing fields of the 21st century? At JMU’s Bridge2AI, we’re opening the door to AI-driven careers for adult learners through an immersive 10-month journey of learning, mentorship, and real-world experience.
Bridge2AI is designed to open up AI opportunities for learners in underserved and rural communities, helping build workforce diversity and regional economic strength.
For more information, sign up to join one of our virtual or in-person information sessions.
Your 10-month journey at a glance
Phase 1: Foundational Knowledge
Begin online learning alongside a peer cohort to build your AI knowledge base.
Phase 2: Skills Training
Dive into targeted instruction and build the hands-on skills that will prepare you for your internship.
Phase 3: Experiential Internship
Complete a 10-week paid internship. You will work on real-world AI and data-driven projects alongside a manager and mentor.
Why enroll?
This innovative program is a unique partnership that kickstarts a career in a growing field. Through funding from the National Science Foundation, we offer students the following:
- A structured program aligned to your goals via an IDP (Individualized Development Plan)
- Full mentorship: JMU faculty + professionals + peer network
- Professional development: leadership, communication, networking webinars and events
- Financial assistance: support for tuition, childcare and travel expenses
Application Details
Eligibility Criteria:
- High school diploma or higher in a non-AI-related field
- Not currently enrolled in a postsecondary program
- At least one year of experience in a non-AI career
- U.S. citizenship or permanent residency by the time of participation
- Internships provide hands-on experience through a hybrid schedule that includes two to three days per week on site
Application Requirements:
- Completed online application form
- Official transcripts from all levels of education required by time of acceptance
Have questions? Contact Ying Jin at jin4yx@jmu.edu and we’ll guide you through the process.
Frequently Asked Questions
There is no cost to participate. Tuition is included for accepted participants.
No. Prior AI experience is not required. In fact, Bridge2AI is specifically designed for individuals without an educational background in computing or AI-related fields who are seeking to transition into AI-enabled careers.
Applicants with degrees or professional experience in computer science, software engineering, information technology, or similar technology-focused fields are not eligible.
The program begins with 9 months of asynchronous training, including enrollment in a spring and summer semester course at JMU. Although there are no course meetings, you can expect to spend a minimum of 5 hours per week reviewing materials and completing assignments. Previous participants reported spending between 5 and 15 hours per week on the training materials. There will also be virtual meetings, some with required attendance, scheduled throughout the 9 months.
After the training program is complete, you may be invited to a 10-week paid internship at CGI. The internship is 40-hours per week, requiring on-site work of 2-5 days per week at CGI’s Lebanon, VA office.