Generative and Agentic AI for Business: Driving Growth and Competitive Advantage
AI Disruption and Competitive Edge: Rotman’s Blueprint for Business Leaders
Artificial intelligence (AI) is no longer a futuristic concept — it is a business imperative. Generative AI (Gen AI) is transforming industries by automating processes, generating insights, and unlocking new revenue models. However, the real differentiator lies in how leaders leverage AI to drive meaningful business outcomes and address real world business problems.
The Generative and Agentic AI for Business: Driving Growth and Competitive Advantage program, designed by the Rotman School of Management at the University of Toronto, is an intensive 6-week virtual e-learning experience for business leaders, innovators, and strategists seeking to leverage AI for business impact. The program enables professionals across sectors and roles to apply generative AI concepts, gain practical skills, and drive meaningful transformation within their organizations.
Each week, you will gain cutting-edge insights from Rotman’s esteemed faculty and explore how Gen AI is revolutionizing business models, unlocking revenue streams, and fostering business innovation across industries.
75%
25%
Source: BCG
Key Takeaways
The Generative and Agentic AI for Business program will enable you to:
Evaluate the potential of gen AI in optimizing core business functions for efficiency and innovation
Select AI-driven solutions that leverage prompt engineering to enhance decision-making, streamline operations, and drive productivity
Identify strategies to leverage AI for competitive differentiation, market leadership, and organizational growth
Recognize AI’s role in transforming forecasting, risk modelling, and synthetic data generation through the use of gen AI models
Describe key AI evaluation metrics and their impact on organizational performance and scalability
Analyze ethical challenges in AI adoption and design governance frameworks for responsible deployment
Explain the significance of human-in-the-loop (HITL) systems in ensuring AI compliance with business and regulatory mandates
Create a structured road map to drive AI adoption and apply gen AI to foster innovation, cultivate a data-driven culture, and mitigate resistance to change
Curriculum Overview
The Generative and Agentic AI for Business: Driving Growth and Competitive Advantage program from the Rotman School of Management will equip you with the knowledge and skills to navigate AI-driven business leadership. You will build strategic thinking skills, strengthen your understanding of generative AI, generative AI concepts, AI systems, and large language models, and develop AI for business strategies that drive impact and long-term value. You will also gain practical skills in applying generative AI tools and AI driven solutions to real world business challenges, while understanding responsible AI and key ethical considerations shaping today’s generative AI landscape.
Distinguish between various AI types — robotic process automation, predictive, generative, and agentic — and their practical applications
Discover high-impact AI use cases across knowledge work, operations, and technology ecosystems
Assess efficiency improvements enabled by AI-driven automation and informed decision-making
Understand the limitations and risks associated with foundational gen AI
Leverage first-mover advantages by implementing gen AI applications effectively
Craft AI-driven strategies to enhance customer experience, streamline operations, and strengthen business intelligence
Examine real-world case studies showcasing AI's role in driving innovation and strategic growth
Examine emerging gen AI-driven business models and evaluate their market impact
Learn how AI can unlock new revenue streams through content monetization and artificial intelligence as a service
Assess AI’s influence on financial performance, including its impact on profit and loss statements
Use AI tools for scenario analysis and predictive modelling to inform strategic decisions
Combine data-driven insights with intuition to strengthen business decision-making
Apply AI frameworks to enhance operational efficiency and drive improved organizational outcomes.
Recognize ethical concerns, such as algorithmic bias, transparency issues, and data privacy risks
Create governance frameworks that balance AI innovation with effective risk management
Formulate policies that ensure AI adoption aligns with corporate governance and regulatory standards
Craft leadership strategies to cultivate innovation and promote cross-functional collaboration
Examine case studies showcasing successful AI transformations and their roles in driving business growth
Design a strategic road map to accelerate AI adoption and scale initiatives within your organization
Note: Throughout the program, learners will explore the use of tools and technologies such as gen AI, large language models (LLMs), variational autoencoders (VAEs), generative adversarial networks (GANs), and retrieval-augmented generation (RAG). Learners will also engage with interactive text-based simulations powered by custom AI chatbots to apply these tools in real-world business scenarios.
Faculty-Led Insights on Agentic AI
Explore how agentic AI is reshaping business execution, decision-making, and AI workflows. These faculty-led live sessions translate AI agents and agent-driven automation into practical skills for business leaders.
Live Session 1: Agentic AI for Business Growth
This session introduces the fundamentals of agent-driven automation and how AI agents can streamline everyday operations using real business examples. It explains what autonomous agents are, how they plan and execute tasks end-to-end and which processes are best suited for agentic workflows. The session also highlights how to identify strong starting points and evaluate agent impact using clear, measurable metrics.
Live Session 2: Agentic AI in the Real World — Safety, Oversight and Team Readiness
This session focuses on safely integrating agentic systems into existing workflows without requiring technical expertise. It covers common challenges when agents act autonomously, practical ways to prevent errors and the boundaries leaders must set for reliable use. The session also emphasizes the importance of human oversight, team readiness, trust-building and ongoing monitoring to ensure responsible, effective deployment.
Note: Live sessions and speakers are subject to change.
Program Experience
Reinforce key concepts and build a solid understanding of generative AI concepts through short knowledge checks.
Engage with the program leader to gain insights on AI for business applications and real-world decision making.
Apply applied generative AI to real world business problems through case studies and practical assignments.
Test your grasp of critical concepts across artificial intelligence, machine learning, and gen AI.
Learn from best in class professors with deep expertise in AI and machine learning and business strategy.
Explore generative AI tools, AI systems, and large language models used in modern business environments.
Deepen your understanding of agentic AI through live sessions focused on real-world use cases, oversight, and impact.
Hear from Past Participants
Who Should Enrol?
This virtual e-learning program is ideal for senior leaders, strategists, and entrepreneurs aiming to harness gen AI for business transformation, particularly:
C-Suite Executives and Leaders
driving AI-powered business strategies and innovation
leveraging natural language processing (NLP) for enhanced decision-making and customer insights
Vice Presidents, Heads, and Directors of:
Marketing, Finance, Operations, and Project Management aiming to improve efficiency and customer engagement through AI
Digital Transformation, Innovation, Technology, AI Transformation, and Data Strategy working to align AI initiatives with business goals and scale high-impact use cases
Strategy, Revenue, Product, Innovation, Data Strategy, and AI Strategy focused on identifying market disruptions and creating profitable AI-driven models
Entrepreneurs and Founders
exploring scalable AI opportunities
focused on monetizing AI-powered solutions
Case Study Spotlight: AI in Action
Goldman Sachs developed an AI assistant that analyzes financial data, enhancing decision-making while enabling professionals to focus on strategy.
Pfizer launched Charlie, a gen AI platform that automates fact-checking, editing, and content risk categorization to accelerate approvals.
Morgan Stanley partnered with OpenAI to build an AI assistant that provides real-time insights, reducing research time for advisers.
Nvidia uses synthetic data to train autonomous vehicles in simulated environments, improving safety and development speed.
Citibank uses AI-driven risk modelling to predict economic shifts, improving investment decisions through scenario-based insights.
Brex introduced AI-powered financial tools that analyze spending patterns and provide real-time budget insights.
Cohere launched Command R+, an AI model that simplifies document Q&A and text summarization for faster insights.
Faculty
World-renowned Rotman faculty in the Generative and Agentic AI for Business: Driving Growth and Competitive Advantage program will prepare you to navigate the strategic and organizational challenges of AI-driven leadership. You will leverage their expertise in artificial intelligence, generative and agentic AI, and business strategy to sharpen your decision-making and build the critical capabilities required to lead AI initiatives at the enterprise level.
Through a comprehensive curriculum, faculty-led sessions, and peer learning, you will develop a deeper understanding of AI-enabled business models, organizational readiness, and governance considerations—positioning you as a trusted partner to senior stakeholders and enabling you to drive sustainable business growth with confidence.
Professor of Economic Analysis and Policy; Academic Director, Rotman Executive Programs
Walid Hejazi is an expert in economic analysis and policy at the Rotman School of Management. He teaches in Rotman’s MBA, Executive MBA, and custom programs, offering insights...
Assistant Professor of Financial Technologies
Zissis Poulos is an expert in machine learning and applications of gen AI for financial markets. His research covers AI applications in derivatives hedging, risk management, a...
Certificate
Upon successful completion of this 6-week virtual e-learning program, participants will receive a digital certificate from the Rotman School of Management, University of Toronto.
Note: all certificate images are for illustrative purposes only and may be subject to change at the discretion of the Rotman School of Management.
FAQs
How do I know if this program is right for me?
After reviewing the information on the program landing page, we recommend you submit the short form above to gain access to the program brochure, which includes more in-depth information. If you still have questions on whether this program is a good fit for you, please email learner.success@emeritus.org, and a dedicated program advisor will follow-up with you very shortly.
Are there any prerequisites for this program?
Some programs do have prerequisites, particularly the more technical ones. This information will be noted on the program landing page, as well as in the program brochure. If you are uncertain about program prerequisites and your capabilities, please email us at the ID mentioned above.
Note that, unless otherwise stated on the program web page, all programs are taught in English and proficiency in English is required.
What is the typical class profile?
More than 50 percent of our participants are from outside the United States. Class profiles vary from one cohort to the next, but, generally, our online certificates draw a highly diverse audience in terms of professional experience, industry, and geography — leading to a very rich peer learning and networking experience.
What other dates will this program be offered in the future?
Check back to this program web page or email us to inquire if future program dates or the timeline for future offerings have been confirmed yet.
How much time is required each week?
Each program includes an estimated learner effort per week. This is referenced at the top of the program landing page under the Duration section, as well as in the program brochure, which you can obtain by submitting the short form at the top of this web page.
How will my time be spent?
We have designed this program to fit into your current working life as efficiently as possible. Time will be spent among a variety of activities including:
Engaging with recorded video lectures from faculty
Attending webinars and office hours, as per the specific program schedule
Reading or engaging with examples of core topics
Completing knowledge checks/quizzes and required activities
Engaging in moderated discussion groups with your peers
Completing your final project, if required
The program is designed to be highly interactive while also allowing time for self-reflection and to demonstrate an understanding of the core topics through various active learning exercises. Please email us if you need further clarification on program activities.
What is it like to learn online with the learning collaborator, Emeritus?
More than 300,000 learners across 200 countries have chosen to advance their skills with Emeritus and its educational learning partners. In fact, 90 percent of the respondents of a recent survey across all our programs said that their learning outcomes were met or exceeded.
All the contents of the course would be made available to students at the commencement of the course. However, to ensure the program delivers the desired learning outcomes the students may appoint Emeritus to manage the delivery of the program in a cohort-based manner the cost of which is already included in the overall course fee of the course.
A dedicated program support team is available 24/5 (Monday to Friday) to answer questions about the learning platform, technical issues, or anything else that may affect your learning experience.
How do I interact with other program participants?
Peer learning adds substantially to the overall learning experience and is an important part of the program. You can connect and communicate with other participants through our learning platform.
What are the requirements to earn the certificate?
Each program includes an estimated learner effort per week, so you can gauge what will be required before you enroll. This is referenced at the top of the program landing page under the Duration section, as well as in the program brochure, which you can obtain by submitting the short form at the top of this web page. All programs are designed to fit into your working life.
This program is scored as a pass or no-pass; participants must complete the required activities to pass and obtain the certificate of completion. Some programs include a final project submission or other assignments to obtain passing status. This information will be noted in the program brochure. Please email us if you need further clarification on any specific program requirements.
What type of certificate will I receive?
Upon successful completion of the program, you will receive a smart digital certificate. The smart digital certificate can be shared with friends, family, schools, or potential employers. You can use it on your cover letter, resume, and/or display it on your LinkedIn profile. The digital certificate will be sent approximately two weeks after the program, once grading is complete.
Can I get the hard copy of the certificate?
No, only verified digital certificates will be issued upon successful completion. This allows you to share your credentials on social platforms such as LinkedIn, Facebook, and Twitter.
Do I receive alumni status after completing this program?
No, there is no alumni status granted for this program. In some cases, there are credits that count toward a higher level of certification. This information will be clearly noted in the program brochure.
How long will I have access to the learning materials?
You will have access to the online learning platform and all the videos and program materials for 12 months following the program start date. Access to the learning platform is restricted to registered participants per the terms of agreement.
What equipment or technical requirements are there for this program?
Participants will need the latest version of their preferred browser to access the learning platform. In addition, Microsoft Office and a PDF viewer are required to access documents, spreadsheets, presentations, PDF files, and transcripts.
Do I need to be online to access the program content?
Yes, the learning platform is accessed via the internet, and video content is not available for download. However, you can download files of video transcripts, assignment templates, readings, etc. For maximum flexibility, you can access program content from a desktop, laptop, tablet, or mobile device.
Video lectures must be streamed via the internet, and any livestream webinars and office hours will require an internet connection. However, these sessions are always recorded, so you may view them later.
Can I still register if the registration deadline has passed?
Yes, you can register up until seven days past the published start date of the program without missing any of the core program material or learnings.
What is the program fee, and what forms of payment do you accept?
The program fee is noted at the top of this program web page and usually referenced in the program brochure as well.
Flexible payment options are available (see details below as well as at the top of this program web page next to FEE).
Tuition assistance is available for participants who qualify. Please email
What if I don’t have a credit card? Is there another method of payment accepted?
Yes, you can do the bank remittance in the program currency via wire transfer or debit card. Please contact your program advisor, or email us for details.
I was not able to use the discount code provided. Can you help?
Yes! Please email us with the details of the program you are interested in, and we will assist you.
How can I obtain an invoice for payment?
Please email us your invoicing requirements and the specific program you’re interested in enrolling in.
Is there an option to make flexible payments for this program?
Yes, the flexible payment option allows a participant to pay the program fee in installments. This option is made available on the payment page and should be selected before submitting the payment.
How can I obtain a W9 form?
Please connect with us via email for assistance.
Who will be collecting the payment for the program?
Emeritus collects all program payments, provides learner enrollment and program support, and manages learning platform services.
Are there any restrictions on the types of funding that can be used to pay for the program?
Program fees for Emeritus programs with The Rotman School of Management may not be paid for with (a) funds from the GI Bill, the Post-9/11 Educational Assistance Act of 2008, or similar types of military education funding benefits or (b) Title IV financial aid funds.
What is the program refund and deferral policy?
For the program refund and deferral policy, please click the link here.
Didn't find what you were looking for? Write to us at rotman@emeritus.org or Schedule a call with one of our Program Advisors or call us at +1 985 616 5261 (US) / +44 127 959 4639 (UK) / +65 3138 5295 (SG)
Flexible payment options available.
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