SALT LAKE CITY \u2014 The University of Utah is on track to offer a first-of-its-kind bachelor’s degree program in artificial intelligence this fall.<\/p>\n
After receiving the nod from the U.’s board of trustees during a meeting earlier this month, the proposal from the Kahlert School of Computing awaits a final decision from the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities, the U.’s accrediting body.<\/p>\n
If approved, the AI bachelor’s program \u2014 Utah’s first \u2014 would begin accepting applicants for the upcoming fall 2026 semester.<\/p>\n
“Utah has always been at the forefront of computing education. In 1964, we were one of the first programs in the nation to offer a B.S. in Computer Science. Utah faculty were pioneers in computing technologies, from the internet to computer graphics, and beyond,” Mary Hall, director of the Kahlert School of Computing, said in a statement. “It’s imperative to train students to develop and manage the technology that has disrupted all aspects of society.”<\/p>\n
But what will the degree actually look like in practice?<\/p>\n
Foundational coursework will include computer science and mathematics before building toward core AI areas like machine learning, data analysis, natural language processing, computer vision and robotics, according to a release from the U.<\/p>\n
It will also pair technical training with theoretical aspects, exploring the ethical and effective use of AI.<\/p>\n
The U. is hopeful the addition of the degree will help meet an ever-growing demand for workers in an expanding sector. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics,<\/a> Utah consistently ranks among the top 10 states for tech sector job growth.<\/p>\n The new major joins four other undergraduate programs offered through the Kahlert School: computer science, data science, software development and computer engineering. Additionally, the school introduced an AI minor last fall designed to complement other majors.<\/p>\n The David Eccles School of Business will also offer an AI minor in the fall 2026 semester, available to all U. undergraduates, regardless of major.<\/p>\n While graduate programs in AI are becoming common \u2014 UVU in 2024 launched<\/a> the Applied Artificial Intelligence Institute and an AI master’s program \u2014 undergraduate programs are not, with only a small number of programs strictly dedicated to AI.<\/p>\n