The University of Wisconsin-Whitewater has launched a Bachelor of Science in artificial intelligence, beginning this fall.
UW-Whitewater is among the early adopters within the Universities of Wisconsin to offer a dedicated AI major.
“The launch of our Bachelor of Science in artificial intelligence reflects our commitment to career readiness and innovation, ensuring our graduates are prepared for some of the most in-demand roles in the region,” Robin Fox, UW-Whitewater interim provost and vice chancellor for academic affairs, said in a statement. “We are embracing AI as a university and — through our steadfast commitment to hands-on learning and student success — look to be a leader in preparing the first generation of AI professionals.”
The artificial intelligence major integrates computer science, mathematics, psychology and philosophy to help students build the technical and interpersonal skills needed for careers in AI. Graduates of the program will be prepared to enter the data science, information security analysis, AI engineering and machine learning development fields.
“This degree equips students with much more than coding skills,” Jason Janke, dean of the College of Letters and Sciences, said in a statement. “Through an interdisciplinary approach that draws on the breadth of expertise across our college, students gain the technical, analytical and critical thinking abilities needed to lead in a rapidly evolving AI landscape.”
The AI program includes courses in natural language processing and large language modeling, big data and data mining, cognitive psychology, technical and social responsibility and more. Students in the program will also be encouraged to engage in the university’s Undergraduate Research, Innovative, and Creative Activities program and pursue internships to hone their skills in AI development.
In addition to the AI major, UW-Whitewater’s College of Business and Economics offers an emphasis in AI through undergraduate majors in business analytics and marketing.
The University of Wisconsin system Board of Regents approved UW-Madison’s proposal to reorganize the School of Computer, Data & Information Sciences into a standalone College of Computing and Artificial Intelligence in December.
