As artificial intelligence reshapes industries from healthcare to finance, universities are racing to prepare students for this fast-growing field. Once a niche within computer science, AI is now emerging as a standalone major, offering dedicated undergraduate and graduate degrees. A new wave of programs is giving students direct pathways to AI careers, challenging the long-standing dominance of computer science as the primary route into tech. Here’s a roundup of colleges pioneering AI education and what their programs offer.
The AI Degree Revolution
The demand for AI expertise is booming, with companies like Amazon, Google, and NVIDIA investing heavily in talent to build advanced systems like large language models and autonomous technologies. Universities are responding by launching specialized AI degrees that dive into machine learning, robotics, data analytics, and ethics, going beyond the broader scope of traditional computer science curricula. According to David Garlan, associate dean at Carnegie Mellon’s School of Computer Science, AI is now woven into nearly every academic discipline, a trend that’s “here to stay.”
These programs are timely, as the tech job market grows more competitive. While computer science degrees remain valuable, AI-specific training can give graduates an edge in roles like AI engineer, machine learning researcher, or data scientist, where demand is projected to grow 35% over the next decade, per the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Top Undergraduate AI Programs
Several universities have introduced bachelor’s degrees in AI, a shift that began with Carnegie Mellon’s groundbreaking program in 2018. Here are some standout schools:
- Carnegie Mellon University (Pittsburgh, PA)
The first U.S. university to offer a Bachelor of Science in Artificial Intelligence, Carnegie Mellon remains a leader. Its program blends core AI topics like machine learning and natural language processing with hands-on research opportunities. Graduates have landed roles at tech giants like Amazon and in fields like robotics and healthcare, proving the degree’s versatility. - University of Pennsylvania (Philadelphia, PA)
In February 2024, Penn became the first Ivy League school to launch a Bachelor of Science in Engineering (BSE) in Artificial Intelligence. The curriculum covers computing algorithms, data analytics, and advanced robotics, preparing students for “jobs that don’t yet exist,” says Robert Ghrist, associate dean of undergraduate education at Penn Engineering. - Rice University (Houston, TX)
Known as a “Southern Ivy,” Rice announced a Bachelor of Science in Artificial Intelligence in May 2025. The program emphasizes responsible AI development, equipping students to shape the technology’s future in industries like energy and healthcare. - Massachusetts Institute of Technology (Cambridge, MA)
MIT’s Bachelor of Science in Artificial Intelligence and Decision Making, launched in 2022, integrates computer science, mathematics, and ethics. Students must take at least one course on the social implications of computing, reflecting MIT’s focus on responsible innovation.
Other notable programs include Purdue University, which offers a dedicated AI major, and the University of Southern California, with its BS in Artificial Intelligence for Business, combining technical skills with entrepreneurial training.
Graduate AI Programs
For those seeking advanced study, many universities offer master’s and PhD programs in AI or related fields like machine learning and robotics. These programs often provide access to cutting-edge research labs and industry partnerships. Some top options include:
- Stanford University (Stanford, CA)
Stanford’s Master’s in Computer Science with an AI specialization leverages its historic Stanford Artificial Intelligence Laboratory, founded in 1962. Students explore topics like computer vision and natural language processing, benefiting from proximity to Silicon Valley. - University of Washington (Seattle, WA)
The Paul G. Allen School of Computer Science & Engineering offers an MS in Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning, with research opportunities in robotics and human-AI interaction. Its collaboration with the Allen Institute for AI enhances its industry ties. - Georgia Institute of Technology (Atlanta, GA)
Georgia Tech’s MS and PhD in Machine Learning, alongside its AI Makerspace Lab with NVIDIA, focus on practical applications like intelligent tutoring systems and autonomous agents. - University of Michigan (Ann Arbor, MI)
Michigan’s MS and PhD programs in Computer Science and Engineering emphasize AI through its Michigan AI Laboratory, offering hands-on experience in areas like human-centered computing and robotics.
Choosing the Right Path
With AI degrees still relatively new, students should carefully evaluate programs. Key questions to ask: Does the curriculum emphasize practical skills, like coding and model development, or focus on theory? Are there opportunities for research or internships? How does the program differ from a traditional computer science degree? Bryan Ackermann, head of AI strategy at Korn Ferry, advises students pursuing computer science to take AI-related electives to stay competitive.
For those unsure about committing to an AI major, many schools offer AI concentrations within computer science or related fields like data science. Harvard, for example, provides robust AI courses within its computer science program, including a top-rated machine learning class. Certificate programs or online courses, like MIT’s free Introduction to Machine Learning on Coursera, can also test the waters.
The Future of AI Education
As AI continues to evolve, more universities are expected to launch dedicated programs. The growth of AI degree conferrals—up 120% since 2011 at bachelor’s and master’s levels—outpaces even STEM fields, according to Georgetown University’s Center for Security and Emerging Technology. This trend reflects the urgency to train a workforce for an AI-driven economy.
For students, the rise of AI degrees offers exciting opportunities but also requires strategic planning. Whether at Carnegie Mellon, Penn, or a rising star like Rice, these programs are preparing graduates to lead in a world transformed by AI. As Rice’s Amy Dittmar puts it, the goal is to equip students not just to navigate this future but to “shape it responsibly.”