Cambridge Digital Minds

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Introduction to Digital Minds

An 8-week course exploring the possibility, perception, and potential societal and ethical implications of digital minds.

Could AI systems become conscious? How would we know? And what would it mean if they did—or if millions of people believed they had?

These questions are moving from philosophy seminars to boardrooms and policy debates, making it increasingly urgent that we engage with them rigorously.

This free, expert-validated course equips you to navigate current and future questions around digital minds, and prepares you for impactful research in this area.

What You'll Learn

Developed in collaboration with leading researchers from Cambridge, NYU, Oxford, Sussex, Eleos AI and beyond.

1

Introduction to the Field

An overview of digital minds and theories of moral standing

2

Theories of Consciousness

How major theories of consciousness may or may not apply to AI

3

Testing for Consciousness

Current approaches to testing for consciousness and other mental capacities

4

Perceptions of Consciousness

How people perceive AI consciousness and the implications of these perceptions

5

Decision-Making Under Uncertainty

Practical frameworks for making decisions when certainty is impossible

6

AI Safety Intersections

How digital minds questions interact with AI safety considerations

7

Governance Frameworks

Policy and governance approaches for addressing digital minds

8

Synthesis & Application

Bringing together course themes and preparing for further work

Course Format

A structured learning experience combining independent study with facilitated discussion.

Core Programme

8 Weeks

  • 2 hours of reading and preparation per week, following our expert-developed syllabus
  • 1.5 hours of facilitated group discussion each week
  • Engagement with cutting-edge research and real-world case studies
  • Access to a community of peers working on digital minds questions

Project Phase

Optional 4-Week Extension

  • Guidance on selecting and executing an impactful project using what you've learned
  • Prizes for outstanding projects
  • An opportunity to contribute to this growing field
  • Pathway to the Cambridge Digital Minds Fellowship

Syllabus developed in cooperation with leading researchers from the University of Cambridge, New York University, University of Oxford, University of Sussex, Eleos AI, and beyond.

Ready to Join?

Applications open in February 2026. Express your interest now to be notified when applications open.

Express Interest