The world of artificial intelligence is expanding at a breakneck pace, and with it, the demand for professionals who can not only use AI tools but also build, design, and innovate them. Recognizing this critical need, Penn State University has stepped up to the plate, announcing a new Bachelor of Science degree in Artificial Intelligence Engineering (AIE) set to launch this fall. This isn't just another tech degree; it's one of the very first of its kind in the United States, designed to forge the next generation of AI pioneers.
A Degree Built for the Future
Housed within the prestigious School of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science (EECS), the AIE program is engineered from the ground up to be uniquely comprehensive. While many programs focus solely on the software and algorithms that power AI, Penn State's degree takes a holistic approach. Students will dive deep into the foundations of AI, exploring everything from the hardware that makes machine learning possible to the complex software that brings it to life.
Tom La Porta, director of the School of EECS, highlighted this unique blend, noting that the degree covers a much wider and deeper set of topics than most AI programs. By combining computer science, computer engineering, and electrical engineering, the curriculum ensures graduates aren't just users of AI, but true architects of intelligent systems.
Industry-Approved Innovation
To ensure the program meets the real-world demands of the tech industry, Penn State collaborated closely with industry partners. Dan Grillo, Vice President of Engineering for LinkedIn and a Penn State alumnus, praised the new degree, stating, “This innovative program is a crucial step in equipping the next generation of tech leaders with the advanced skills and knowledge needed to drive impactful AI advancements across industries.”
This industry-first approach means students will be learning skills that are directly applicable to the challenges and opportunities they'll face in their careers. The focus isn't just on learning tools; it's on developing a problem-solving mindset and understanding how to build responsible AI that benefits society.
A Flexible, Three-Layered Approach
The curriculum is structured in three distinct layers to provide both a strong foundation and the flexibility to adapt to the ever-changing tech landscape.
- The Foundation Layer: This core level ensures every student masters the fundamental principles of AI.
- The Bridge Layer: Building on the foundation, this middle layer prepares students to specialize in areas that pique their interest.
- The Elective Layer: The top layer offers a wide range of courses across various disciplines, including hardware systems, learning theory, computer vision, and robotics. This allows students to tailor their education to their career goals.
Mehrdad Mahdavi, one of the faculty members who developed the degree, explained that this structure is dynamic. While the foundations remain constant, new elective and bridge courses can be added as technology evolves, ensuring the program stays on the cutting edge.
Beyond the Degree: An AI Minor
For students who want to integrate AI into their primary field of study without committing to a full degree, Penn State is also launching an AIE minor. This option is perfect for those in computer science, computer engineering, or electrical engineering who want to equip themselves with core AI techniques and tools to enhance their expertise.
Key Takeaways
- Pioneering Program: Penn State is launching one of the first undergraduate degrees in Artificial Intelligence Engineering in the U.S.
- Holistic Curriculum: The degree covers AI from all angles, including hardware, software, algorithms, and applications.
- Industry-Informed: Developed with input from tech leaders like LinkedIn to ensure graduates are career-ready.
- Focus on Responsibility: The program emphasizes problem-solving and the development of ethical, beneficial AI.
- Flexible Options: In addition to the full B.S. degree, a minor in AIE is available for students in related disciplines.