Boise State University is setting a new standard in education with the launch of its innovative artificial intelligence science degree program. This pioneering initiative, the first of its kind in Idaho and the Pacific Northwest, is designed to equip students with the skills and knowledge necessary to navigate and influence the rapidly evolving field of AI.
The program, which has been in development for several years, recently received full approval from the Idaho State Board of Education. It emphasizes the practical application of AI across various industries, promising to open significant opportunities for both students and the region.
"With recent advancements, artificial intelligence—particularly generative AI—has exploded into everyday life with exciting, and potentially scary, impacts on society," said Jerry Fails, Chair of the Department of Computer Science. "Computers had a similar impact on society, and our department at Boise State is excited to lead the way within Idaho, the region, and nationally to provide students with the knowledge and skills necessary to shape the field of AI and to influence it for the benefit of society."
One of the standout features of the degree is its flexible course offerings. Students have the opportunity to tailor their coursework to fit specific interests through a variety of electives. These electives allow students to combine AI with disciplines such as generative AI, large language models, computer vision, reinforcement learning, deep learning, machine learning for business, and even philosophy.
Associate Professor Casey Kennington, a key figure in the development of the new degree, emphasized the importance of preparing students not just to use AI, but to build the AI of the future. Kennington, who leads the Speech, Language, and Interactive Machines research group, has been instrumental in creating a curriculum that is both forward-thinking and grounded in current research.
The College of Engineering's Dean, Amy Fleischer, highlighted the program's role in reinforcing Boise State's leadership in AI education. "At Boise State, we are committed to providing cutting-edge education that ensures our graduates are ready to succeed in the workforce of today and tomorrow," Fleischer said. "Artificial intelligence is reshaping not only computer science but all industries at an unprecedented pace, and it’s essential that we prepare our students to lead both locally and nationally in this evolving landscape."
Boise State has invested heavily in infrastructure to support the Department of Computer Science, including state investments to expand programs and create additional faculty lines. The strategic move to downtown Boise in 2016 has placed students and faculty in close proximity to the city’s burgeoning technology industry, fostering partnerships and creating a motivated and skilled workforce ready for immediate impact.
The new AI degree is expected to empower Boise State students to shape the future of AI and computing, driving economic growth within the state. The program will begin accepting students in the Fall 2025 semester, marking a significant milestone in the university's commitment to innovation and leadership in education.
For more information about the new degree program, visit Boise State University.