North Texas universities launch AI degree programs for a changing workforce

The useful part

At some North Texas universities, students can now major in artificial intelligence. UT Arlington and Texas Wesleyan University have introduced degree programs focused on AI, but university leaders say the programs go beyond a crash course in computer science. Students are also learning how to recognize biases, consider the implications of the technology and apply human judgment as AI becomes more common in the workplace.

How it works

• For more than a century, UT Arlington has been training students for the workforce.
• Texas Wesleyan University is taking a similar human-centered approach with its new humanities and artificial intelligence degree.
• The program also focuses on preparing students to consider how AI should be used once they enter the workforce.
• Students don't just study statistics, data and algorithms.
• This fall, the university has a new major: artificial intelligence for business.

What to take from it

UTA junior Usman Siddique transferred to the university for the new degree program. He sees understanding AI as increasingly important for a career in business. "If you look at big companies, they all are using AI in businesses, and yeah, I mean, I think that's the future," Siddique said.

Example or evidence

• Nerur said they also learn the importance of keeping a human set of eyes on the technology.

Details worth keeping

Enrolling in college looks a little different these days.