The era of artificial intelligence is shaping our future. Are you ready?

Rapid technological advances in artificial intelligence (AI) are being found in many aspects of society. Companies across all sectors are integrating it into their workflow, which has created a precipitous demand for professionals with knowledge in this area. This is why the Department of Computer Science and Information Systems at Rhode Island College is working hard to offer a bachelor’s degree in AI.

According to program director and professor Timothy Henry, few universities in the region offer a similar program that prepares students to be leaders in AI.

“We worked with Rhode Island businesses and national organizations to design a practical program that prepares our students to bridge the skills gap in AI while contributing to local businesses and the Rhode Island economy,” he explains. “Our program balances that technical knowledge for innovation with the business perspective to effectively integrate AI into an organization.”

In the AI degree, students receive a solid foundation in artificial intelligence and machine learning, followed by practical courses in natural language processing, computer vision, robotics, and more.

Upon completion of the program, each student will be able to create and evaluate AI models, develop innovative resources to solve complex and multifaceted problems related to artificial intelligence, and critically evaluate the ethical, legal, and social impacts of this technology. These are essential skills for a successful career in this broad labor market.

RIC also offers two new specializations: one in Artificial Intelligence and one in AI Applications; designed to prepare even students from other areas in how to use AI responsibly and ethically, and to provide them with a fundamental understanding of AI principles, machine learning algorithms, ethics, and data analysis; skills they can apply in their own field of study or in their future career path.

Ultimately, each of RIC’s AI programs will not only enhance students’ employability but also foster their critical thinking, problem-solving, and ethical decision-making, all in the name of strengthening the current and future needs of Rhode Island businesses.

For more information, visit Artificial Intelligence BS and Minor