The initiative includes the launch of a new Artificial Intelligence major and minor, as well as AI learning opportunities embedded and integrated in other areas of the university’s curriculum.
Mount Saint Joseph University is launching a new human-centered artificial intelligence initiative that includes the launch of an Artificial Intelligence major and minor, as well as expanded AI learning opportunities that will be integrated into other areas of the university’s curriculum. The university is taking a human-centered approach to artificial intelligence, taking the stance that the technology should enhance human potential, not replace it.
According to an article on Mount Saint Joseph University’s website, Rebecca Allen, who serves as the Computer Science chair and an assistant professor, was quoted as saying of the initiative, "Artificial intelligence is one of the most transformative technologies of our time, but its greatest value comes from the people who use it. At the Mount, we're preparing students not only to understand AI, but to apply it thoughtfully and ethically in their careers and communities. Artificial intelligence is a tool, not a replacement for human thinking. A strong liberal arts education gives students the critical thinking skills needed to evaluate information, ask better questions and make thoughtful decisions. Those skills are more important than ever in the age of AI.”
Beginning with the Fall 2026 semester, the university will offer the Bachelor of Science in Artificial Intelligence degree and an Artificial Intelligence minor. In addition, the university will begin to expand artificial intelligence education throughout the university’s curriculum. The university aims to explore and teach artificial intelligence through a human-centered lens and will focus on the ethical usage of the technology.
Students who pursue an Artificial Intelligence major will gain skills in programming, data management, and large language models, as well as focus on ethics, critical thinking, the liberal arts, privacy, security, and responsible use. The program will prepare students to work in careers like AI consulting, software development, technology strategy, and data analytics. The program will give students the opportunity to participate in a co-op, internship, or volunteer experience before they graduate to give them practical experience in integrating AI into workplaces. The Artificial Intelligence minor is available to students in all majors, and will allow students to combine artificial intelligence education with their education in business, healthcare, education, and more.
In addition, the university is implementing artificial intelligence education throughout its curriculum. This will include new courses like Practical AI and Computers I, Ethics and Society in Artificial Intelligence and Technology, and Design Thinking, AI, and the Future of Innovation, that are available to all students.
The university’s approach to the implementation of artificial intelligence coursework is human-centered, aligning with the recent statement of Pope Leo XIV, who noted that AI should serve humanity and the common good.
Michael Sontag, who serves as the Dean of the School of Arts & Sciences, noted, "Artificial intelligence is not simply a computer science topic anymore. Every industry is being transformed by AI, and our graduates will be prepared to understand the technology, evaluate it critically and apply it responsibly in whatever career they pursue."
For more information about Mount Saint Joseph University, visit the school’s website.