All our programs are completely free for participants. We believe that high-quality AI safety education should be accessible to everyone, regardless of financial circumstances. This includes all course materials, mentorship, and certification upon completion.

Our programs and activities are primarily geared towards Rochester Institute of Technology students. If you are not an RIT student but are interested in AI Safety, we recommend exploring resources from other organizations in the broader AI Safety community.

Some excellent resources include programs from organizations like the Center for AI Safety, AI Safety Fundamentals, and various university-based AI safety groups.

Our programs are specifically designed for the RIT community, combining rigorous academic content with hands-on research opportunities. We offer:

• Small cohort sizes (5-12 participants) for personalized attention
• Direct mentorship from faculty and industry researchers
• Opportunities to contribute to real research projects
• Integration with RIT’s broader AI and computing programs
• Networking with the local AI safety community

For most students, we recommend starting with AI Alignment 101, which provides a comprehensive foundation in AI safety concepts. Choose based on your background:

• New to AI Safety: Start with AI Alignment 101
• Policy Interest: AI Governance (can be taken independently)
• Strong ML Background: Consider the ML Skill-Up Bootcamp
• Advanced Students: AI Alignment 102 (requires 101 or equivalent)

Time commitments vary by program:

• AI Alignment 101 & AI Governance: 2-3 hours per week
• AI Alignment 102: 4-6 hours per week
• ML Skill-Up Bootcamp: 40+ hours per week (full-time intensive)

All programs include weekly group discussions, individual reading/study time, and a capstone project.

We offer programs quarterly throughout the year:

• 2025 Start Dates: January, April, July, October
• Application Deadlines: 2-3 weeks before each start date
• Response Time: 1-2 weeks after application submission

We recommend applying early as cohort sizes are limited to ensure quality mentorship.

Prerequisites vary by program:

• AI Alignment 101: No prerequisites – open to all RIT students
• AI Governance: No prerequisites – open to all RIT students
• AI Alignment 102: Completion of AI Alignment 101 + ML background
• ML Skill-Up Bootcamp: Undergraduate mathematics + Python programming

If you’re unsure about your readiness, contact our admissions team for guidance.

Our application process focuses on fit and motivation rather than just academic credentials. We look for:

• Genuine interest in AI safety and alignment
• Commitment to the time requirements
• Willingness to engage collaboratively with peers
• Relevant background for advanced programs

The ML Skill-Up Bootcamp is the most selective due to its intensive nature and limited cohort size.

Absolutely! Many students progress through multiple programs. Common pathways include:

• AI Alignment 101 → AI Alignment 102
• AI Alignment 101 → ML Skill-Up Bootcamp → AI Alignment 102
• AI Governance + AI Alignment 101 (can be taken in any order)

We encourage students to build their expertise progressively across different aspects of AI safety.

Programming requirements vary by program:

• AI Alignment 101 & AI Governance: No programming required
• AI Alignment 102: Basic programming helpful but not required
• ML Skill-Up Bootcamp: Python programming experience required

We focus on concepts and understanding first, with technical skills built progressively.

Our programs prepare students for various AI safety career paths:

• AI safety researcher at organizations like Anthropic, OpenAI, DeepMind
• AI alignment team member at AI companies
• Policy researcher or analyst focusing on AI governance
• PhD programs in AI safety or related fields
• Independent research fellowships
• Founder of AI safety organizations or initiatives

We also provide career guidance and networking opportunities with our alumni network.