North Carolina A&T University will offer North Carolina’s first dedicated undergraduate degree in artificial intelligence (AI), marking a pioneering milestone among HBCUs. Approved by the UNC System Board of Governors, A&T’s program aims to prepare students for impactful careers in AI, supported by significant partnerships with leading tech companies and elite research institutions.
North Carolina A&T University is embarking on a groundbreaking journey as it prepares to launch the state’s first undergraduate degree in artificial intelligence (AI). This initiative, sanctioned by the UNC System Board of Governors, will make A&T a pioneering institution within the North Carolina educational landscape. Unlike other universities, which merely offer AI as a concentration, A&T will stand out as the sole provider of a dedicated AI degree, setting the stage for future innovation and academic excellence.
A&T, recognized as the largest HBCU in the nation, has long been a formidable force in engineering and STEM fields, producing a wealth of Black graduates who are ready to lead. Chancellor James Martin emphasized the vital role AI plays in our lives, stating, “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.” This new program promises to equip students not just for jobs, but for influential roles within this evolving sector.
This fall, A&T has taken significant steps forward, partnering with NVIDIA, a leader in AI chip technology, to foster innovation across North Carolina. The university’s involvement in AI extends beyond local borders, with collaborations spanning elite institutions such as MIT, Yale, and Duke, alongside industry giants like Google and Boeing. Such alliances enrich the educational experience and underscore A&T’s commitment to pioneering advanced research.
Students will have the opportunity to dive deep into two concentrations within the new AI degree: Applied AI under the College of Science and Technology and Advanced AI Systems through the College of Engineering. The curriculum is designed with a holistic approach that combines foundational principles, advanced techniques, and practical applications that reflect the interdisciplinary nature of AI development. Provost Tonya Smith-Jackson remarked, “Offering this degree in an interdisciplinary curriculum positions it in way that is aligned with the intent of scientists in the 1950s who first labeled and defined AI.”
As the first cohort prepares to enroll next fall, the excitement at North Carolina A&T is palpable. This bold move not only establishes a new educational model but also aligns with the university’s longstanding legacy of innovation and community leadership in an evolving technological world.
Through this initiative, A&T is not merely adding a degree; it is shaping a future where students emerge as key contributors to the landscape of AI, ready to influence society in meaningful ways from the very start of their careers.
The emergence of artificial intelligence (AI) has transformed numerous sectors, demanding skilled professionals equipped with the knowledge and expertise to navigate this landscape. For historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs), the integration of AI education is crucial for nurturing diverse talent in a predominantly technical field. The approval of an undergraduate degree in AI at North Carolina A&T University marks a significant milestone, reflecting a commitment to academic advancement and innovation within an inclusive environment that fosters STEM-related careers among underrepresented groups.
In conclusion, North Carolina A&T University’s initiative to offer the state’s first undergraduate degree in artificial intelligence sets a progressive trajectory not only for the institution but for HBCUs as a whole. With a vision grounded in collaboration and interdisciplinary studies, A&T is poised to prepare the next generation of leaders in technology, ensuring they are well-equipped to tackle the challenges and opportunities presented by AI in society. This degree embodies a powerful step toward inclusivity, empowerment, and a brighter future for the field of artificial intelligence.
Original Source: clutchpoints.com
