SBU launches first artificial intelligence degree

Southwest Baptist University recently announced its first artificial intelligence degree.

The Bolivar-based institution revamped an existing pathway to create a bachelor’s degree in artificial intelligence and data science. The pathway previously focused solely on data science.

“This program focuses on real-world skills that are highly relevant today, empowering students to solve industry challenges with AI and data-driven solutions,” said Amos Gichamba, division head and associate professor of computing, in a news release. “Through internships and real-life case studies, students in this program will acquire skills that are on high demand in the industry.”

The university said faculty monitor changes in the field and update programs to meet the demands of the marketplace. SBU also seeks input from advisory boards made up of alumni and industry professionals.

Program courses include AI and machine learning, processing data for decision-making and computing ethics.

Troy Bethards, dean of the College of Professional Programs at SBU, said the new program was based on feedback.

“We seek feedback from various stakeholders such as alumni and business advisory boards to ensure our programs are relevant – not just for what our graduates need today but for what they will need five or even 10 years from now,” he said in the release. “The AI/data science degree serves as an excellent example of forward-thinking academic experience students get at SBU.”

The program is being marketed to the incoming freshman class of 2026.

Students in the degree program will also be eligible for a five-year program offered by SBU, which allows them to complete a bachelor’s degree while also working on a master’s degree in either data science or AI.