Programme FAQs

• What is the primary focus of this AI-driven decision-making programme?

  This programme focuses on applying generative AI into strategic decision-making frameworks rather than just teaching the technical aspects of the tools. You'll learn to use AI as a thinking partner to:

  • Analyse external business environments using PESTEL

  • Reduce risk through AI-supported scenario planning

  • Create customer-centric strategies using segmentation, targeting and positioning (STP)

  • Make decisions under uncertainty with greater confidence

• Do I need technical coding skills to join?

  No, technical coding skills are not required to succeed on this programme. The curriculum focuses on the strategic application of generative AI tools, rather than software engineering or programming. You'll learn how to write clear prompts to get useful outputs from these tools.

• What is the refund policy?

  To qualify for a refund, you must submit your refund request within 7 days from the start date of the regular class (Live or recorded, as the case may be), whether attended or not. Any refund request failing to meet this requirement will not be accepted and no refund will be provided.

• Does this programme grant Elumni status?

  Successful completion of the programme makes you eligible for Oxford Saïd Executive Education Alumni status. The alumni process typically takes 60–90 days after programme completion. Once processed, you can join a global network of over 50,000 professionals across 195 countries, receive event invitations, access the Oxford University Research Archive and enjoy a 10% discount on further Oxford online study.
  

• Does this programme grant Elumni status?

  Successful completion of the programme makes you eligible for Oxford Saïd Executive Education Elumni status. The Elumni process typically takes 60-90 days after programme completion. Once processed, you can join a global network of over 50,000 professionals across 195 countries and access exclusive benefits, including event access and discounts on future study.

• Who is the programme faculty?

  The programme is led by Professor Andrew Stephen, the L'Oréal Professor of Marketing at Saïd Business School. He is a world-leading expert in the intersection of marketing, technology and consumer behaviour, recognised as the top marketing academic in the UK.

• Will we learn prompt engineering?

  Writing effective prompts is a core part of the curriculum. You will learn to structure inputs to generate useful strategic analysis, using the tools to support your thinking instead of just retrieving information.

• How does this programme differ from a standard strategy course?

  Standard courses often teach frameworks like PESTEL or Five Forces in isolation. This programme teaches you to integrate generative AI into these frameworks to help generate insights and support scenario planning and risk evaluation.

• Do I need to buy AI software subscriptions?

  We use publicly available AI tools for all exercises, and free versions are typically sufficient. We do not provide software licences for these tools.
  

• Can fresh graduates apply for this programme?

  This programme requires a minimum of five years of professional experience and is not suitable for fresh graduates. It is designed for mid-to-senior professionals who can bring their own industry context and leadership challenges to the discussions.

• How is the programme delivered?

  The programme follows a cohort-based learning model designed for working professionals . Core concepts are taught through pre-recorded videos led by Oxford Saïd faculty, which you can watch flexibly, alongside five live sessions in every cohort - a programme induction by Simplilearn TA, two live online interactive sessions by Oxford experts and two industry masterclasses led by industry experts. Once a week, a dedicated Simplilearn TA is available to moderate group discussions, drive peer-to-peer engagement and address any academic-related queries through a discussion forum. 

• What industries is this relevant for?

  The strategic frameworks and AI applications we cover are relevant across industries. They are highly relevant for professionals in finance, technology, healthcare, manufacturing, consulting and beyond who need to make high-stakes decisions under uncertainty.

• What happens if I cannot attend a live session?

  Live sessions are a core component of the programme, and we strongly encourage you to attend them in real time. If exceptional circumstances prevent you from joining, recordings are available on Canvas and your Program Manager will help you catch up.
  

• How is the programme assessed?

  There are two types of assessment. The first is a summative quiz – autograded-graded and a necessary component in unlocking your programme certificate. The second is a formative project,  which is optional but highly recommended, as it brings together your learning by applying ideas from across modules. Formative projects are often peer-reviewed with additional feedback from TAs (if applicable).
  

• Will I learn to code or build AI models?

  This is a management programme, not a technical one, so you will not learn Python or coding. Instead, you will focus on learning to apply existing generative AI tools to solve strategic business problems and support your analysis.

• How are the case studies structured?

  You will step into specific professional roles. For VoltEdge Motors, you act as a strategist entering a new market. For GreenTrail, you act as a consultant working on customer alignment. Both scenarios require the practical application of AI tools.

• Can I interact with other participants?

  You will join a cohort of experienced professionals from diverse backgrounds. Peer interaction is encouraged through discussion forums and live sessions, allowing you to network, share industry perspectives and learn from your global colleagues.

• What is the total duration of the programme?

  This is a structured 12-week learning path. It is designed to provide deep insight into strategic analysis and AI application without requiring a year-long commitment, making it ideal for busy executives.

• Can I change my cohort after enroling in the programme?

  Yes. You are eligible for one complimentary cohort change within the first 30 days of your enrolment. If you cannot continue in your current cohort or have already used your complimentary change, you may request an additional cohort transfer by paying the applicable fee. For details on the process and support with your request, please contact our support team.