A bachelor’s degree in artificial intelligence will be taught at North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University.
The Triad Business Journal reports this is the only AI degree program at the Historically Black College and University (HBCU), and it has been approved by the UNC System Board of Governors. North Carolina A&T, the largest HBCU in the world, plans to enroll the first cohort of students in the fall of 2025. The program will be available both on-campus and online, as reported by WFMY-2 News.
“Artificial intelligence and machine learning are increasingly part of everyday life with the potential for profound and far-reaching impact on virtually every facet of society,” said Chancellor James Martin II, according to The Triad Business Journal. “Our new bachelor’s degree will prepare students for immediate impact, especially in the critical area of human interaction with AI.”
Students planning to enroll can expect the degree to launch with concentrations in advanced AI systems, offered through the College of Engineering, and applied AI, available through the College of Science and Technology. Additionally, the interdisciplinary curriculum will incorporate “foundational principles, advanced techniques, and real-world applications,” per the outlet.
“Offering this degree in an interdisciplinary curriculum positions it in a way that is aligned with the intent of scientists in the 1950s who first labeled and defined AI – scientists who included computer experts, anthropologists, technologists, engineers and more. We seek the same holistic, inclusive approach,” Provost Tonya Smith-Jackson told the outlet.
Martin commented to WFMY-2 News:
“We’ve created a rich AI learning environment informed by cutting-edge science and policy. This degree will empower students to make immediate, meaningful contributions, especially in critical areas of human-AI interaction.”
North Carolina A&T’s work to diversify industries and champion Black students is rooted in its foundation. It ranks as the leading institution in the nation for producing Black engineers, notes The Triad Business Journal. Per WXII-12, the university also graduates the highest number of Black students with bachelor’s degrees.
