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Higher Ed

AI Degree Programs

NJ universities are striving to stay on the cutting edge of this ever-evolving technology.

The proliferation of large language models has made terms like artificial intelligence (AI) and data science commonplace across academic disciplines. Today, the sophistication and depth of AI continues to expand, with the technology poised to permanently alter how society functions in the future.

And yet, AI is still in its infancy, which makes its specific impact on the world difficult to correctly predict.

As Eliezer Yudkowsky, American computer scientist and researcher has said, “By far, the greatest danger of artificial intelligence is that people conclude too early that they understand it.”

From an academic standpoint, students increasingly want to understand how these systems work and how they can apply them, no matter their field of study. Robert Bullard, Rowan University’s associate vice president for external engagement and economic development, describes this as a profound societal shift that will affect all of us, adding that universities are already incorporating AI in courses that might never have used the technology before. 

Focus Areas

Bullard says that Rowan is developing interdisciplinary courses and programs that invite critical inquiry into the broader effects of technological progress. 

“Our new programs will prepare students to navigate the complexities of AI deployment in the real world,” he says, adding that he’s seeing increased interest in programs like data science, machine learning, neural networks, robotics, virtual and augmented reality (VR/AR) and cybersecurity.

At the New Jersey Institute of Technology (NJIT), a $10 million AI initiative serves as the cornerstone for all AI-related education, research and development at the university.

In 2023, AI research at NJIT approached $60 million, reflecting the breadth and depth of activity in areas like machine learning, data science, neural networks and AI ethics.

Matthew Golden, vice president for communications at NJIT, says machine learning and data science remain top choices for students due to their practical applications across industries in areas like predictive analytics and automation. 

“Neural networks and natural language processing are popular with students aiming to develop advanced AI solutions such as chatbots and image recognition systems,” Golden says. “The rise of AI ethics reflects the growing emphasis on responsible AI, particularly as AI becomes integrated into daily life and business operations. These diverse fields offer students the chance to work on cutting-edge technologies and tackle complex, impactful problems.”

Separately, Brendan Englot, director of Stevens Institute for Artificial Intelligence (SIAI) at Stevens Institute of Technology, says that in addition to the disciplinary degrees in various fields of science and engineering that one would expect to see, Stevens also offers master’s degrees in machine learning, applied AI, data science, and robotics. 

“I think these programs are popular because they address the specific needs of different groups of people, and because they are taught by world-class experts in these multidisciplinary areas who are continually updating their courses and curricula to reflect the cutting edge of these fields,” Englot explains.

Crafting a Curriculum

Mirroring the technology itself, AI-related curriculums at universities today are ever evolving. 

“One of the key ingredients of a modern curriculum is to ensure we have the most relevant faculty expertise possible, and every year we are hiring new faculty experts in AI to develop and update courses that address areas of growing demand,” Englot explains. “Every one of the academic departments developing these curricula, as well as the schools that house those departments, has an advisory board of industry experts and distinguished alumni who provide strategic guidance to ensure our curriculum is as relevant as possible to the needs of today’s technology workforce.”

“Regular collaborations with top tech firms and special topics courses, such as at our Ying Wu College of Computing, allow us to stay responsive to emerging trends,” NJIT’s Golden adds. “[Additionally,] our newly launched Center for Educational Innovation and Excellence (CEIE) helps us stay current, focusing on improving teaching methods, integrating advanced technologies and advancing educational research. The CEIE collaborates directly with faculty and academic departments to bring the latest pedagogical innovations to our courses.”

Bullard also emphasizes the importance of maintaining strong partnerships with industry leaders and research organizations, explaining that such collaboration informs course updates and helps integrate real-world applications of AI. 

He adds that Rowan University has numerous research-and-development collaborations with industrial partners and government institutions such as: the Department of Defense, National Science Foundation, NASA, National Institutes of Health, among other federal agencies, as well as with private industry titans such as Google, Sony Corporation, Lockheed Martin, Bristol Myers Squibb, CGI and more.

Certifications

Beyond traditional degrees, universities are also offering various AI certification programs designed to meet the evolving needs of the industry. 

“In addition to the traditional master’s degree, we offer a graduate certificate program in AI at our Ying Wu College of Computing,” Golden says. “Comprised of four courses taught by expert faculty, it provides an opportunity for professionals with a background in computer science or data science to upskill or reskill in the AI domain. What’s more, certificate credits can be applied to a master’s degree.”

Engolt says that Steven’s offers several certificates that address the use of AI, machine learning, and data science in specific applications (such as healthcare and pharmaceuticals), which can be helpful both to deepen one’s knowledge and skills in their current field, or to make the transition to a new field. 

Finally, Rowan offers multiple certificates related to AI, including an Applied Machine Learning certificate, various certification programs and concentrations in AI, data science and cybersecurity via its College of Science & Mathematics, as well as a new Bachelor of Arts in computer systems technology, which focuses on practical IT skills, including databases and cybersecurity, all designed around industry-recognized certifications. 

Looking ahead, Bullard says that his university is developing new AI courses that will focus on the legal, ethical, and societal implications of AI technologies. 

“These programs will be a collaborative effort between the Henry M. Rowan College of Engineering, the College of Humanities & Social Sciences and the Rowan Institute for Public Policy & Citizenship,” he says. “This interdisciplinary approach ensures that students receive comprehensive training that integrates technical skills with education in ethics and public policy.”

All three of the universities mentioned in this article are leading the way in equipping the next generation with the skills necessary to navigate and understand the rapidly advancing technologies that will shape our future.

However, as AI itself evolves – driven by breakthroughs in machine learning, data science, and ethical considerations – education must remain dynamic, continuously adapting to new innovations and societal implications. 

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