AI training and Practitioner Pathway

AI is transforming research and insight at an unprecedented pace. From generative AI and automation tools to synthetic data and intelligent agents, the skills researchers need today are changing. We offer the widest range of AI insight skills courses available in the UK and internationally. Our training ensures professionals understand how AI works, and how to apply it effectively and strategically in their organisations.

New AI Practitioner Pathway  

With AI rapidly reshaping the research profession, AI skills are now essential for research professionals at every career stage. To help you stay ahead, MRS offers the latest practical training in AI and analytics leading to two new professional recognitions: AI Practitioner and AI Advanced Practitioner. Complete the pathway below to build your expertise, demonstrate your capability and gain recognition for your AI skills. 

• Company Partners can use their vouchers against each course 
• Individual Members get a 30% discount on each course

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This is where the MRS AI Practitioner Pathway comes in – it provides a structured route to build critical AI skills. Designed specifically for insight professionals, the pathway takes you from understanding AI fundamentals through to practical application and advanced automation. Guided by expert trainers and aligned to the realities of modern research practice, the pathway helps you future-proof your skills, increase your professional value and gain recognised CPD as you progress.  

AI Practitioner

The AI Practitioner Pathway helps you build the confidence and practical skills to use AI effectively throughout the research lifecycle. You'll learn how to apply generative AI to research design, analysis and reporting, enhance qualitative and quantitative workflows, and create tailored AI-powered solutions. You'll also explore how AI agents are changing the way insights are generated and delivered plus there is optional AI as Co-Pilot in Qualitative Research training which gives you depth into integrating AI into qualitative practice.

• By completing the pathway, you'll be able to work more efficiently, unlock greater value from research and use AI confidently, responsibly and ethically in your day-to-day role.

Advanced AI Practitioner

The Advanced AI Practitioner Pathway is designed for experienced insight professionals who want to develop specialist expertise and help shape the future of AI-enabled research. Choose from two specialist routes: AI Leadership and Transformation, which focuses on driving AI adoption and organisational change, or Synthetic Data and Synthetic Audiences, which explores the opportunities, risks and practical applications of emerging synthetic research methods.

• By completing either route, you'll gain the expertise to lead innovation and influence best practice. Completing these will give you a broader understanding of AI transformation and advanced methodologies, positioning you as a trusted AI leader in your organisation.

How it works

Start by booking a Level 1 course and then progress through Levels 2 and 3 to build your knowledge and practical AI skills – completing the courses from each level. Completing all three levels qualifies you as a recognised MRS AI Practitioner demonstrating your AI expertise within the sector.

• CPD Hours – Earn valuable CPD hours as you progress through the pathway, supporting your ongoing professional development and helping you advance your career.
• Membership savings – If you're not already an MRS member, we strongly recommend joining. Members receive a 30% discount on training courses, meaning you could save significantly across the full pathway while accessing a wide range of additional membership benefits.
• Specialist Pathways – For those looking to deepen their expertise, two optional specialist pathways are available in AI Leadership and Transformation and Synthetic Data and Synthetic Audiences.
• MRS AI Practitioner badge – Once you have completed Levels 1-3, contact training@mrs.org.uk and let us know. We will then verify your attendance and issue you with a MRS AI Practitioner digital badge and LinkedIn card. These can be used to showcase your AI expertise to employers, clients and the wider sector.

By completing the pathway, you'll gain practical AI skills, recognised professional development and a credential that demonstrates you're ready for the new future of research.