Be at the leading edge of technology with NDSU’s artificial intelligence degree
No 21st-century innovation has impacted every corner of the worldwide economy like artificial intelligence, and NDSU is preparing students to take the lead in developing this revolutionary technology. With an eye on the future in an ever-changing industry, the artificial intelligence degree program readies you to guide the way that these intelligent systems will shape our world.
No matter where you go today, it’s hard to find an industry that AI hasn’t impacted, making its programmers, developers and designers immensely important and in high demand. The curriculum is grounded in machine learning, deep learning, natural language processing and the principles of high-quality data management. Students will develop the programming, analytical and systems-thinking skills needed to solve complex, real-world challenges.
“At NDSU, we are teaching every facet of AI,” said Simone Ludwig, computer science department chair. “In the media, AI is currently understood as machine learning, which is just one thing and not the full picture of what AI is. It encompasses a huge field of learning, including logic and reasoning, planning, robotics — each offering different approaches to building intelligent systems.”
This new major builds upon the AI minor that launched in the fall of 2023 and many individual AI courses that came before that. With funding from the North Dakota Legislature, three new courses have been developed by Shawn Merrill, assistant professor of practice, who brings industry experience to the program.
The AI program combines strong theoretical foundations with opportunities for hands-on, project-based learning. Students will graduate equipped for emerging careers in autonomous systems, data analytics, cybersecurity and intelligent software development.
Pari Narkhede, a sophomore computer science major and artificial intelligence minor from Fargo, was in high school when the wave of large language models like ChatGPT lifted AI to worldwide prominence. Seeing the massive potential of this emerging software made her want to study it in college.
“When I first used ChatGPT, I was amazed at how you could get instant results,” said Narkhede, “and it’s only grown in capability since then. I saw the way the developers were working to make it more accurate, and that made me want to understand how the back end of it works.”
In the artificial intelligence program, students have the opportunity to work alongside faculty on cutting-edge AI research. From machine learning and natural language processing to intelligent decision-making systems, students gain hands-on experience contributing to innovations shaping the future of technology.
In addition to technical expertise, students also learn the ethics behind responsible AI, developing the judgment to design transparent and socially responsible AI systems. Program graduates will be prepared to create solutions that align with societal values and make a meaningful impact.
“Right now, we’re really just testing AI and pushing the limits of what it can do,” said Narkhede. “In the rush to make it so big and powerful, the significance of ethics might be overlooked. Addressing concerns about things like accuracy and privacy and bigger questions like ‘should I let this do my job for me?’ will only be more important.”
Faculty in the department are experts in the field, having researched artificial intelligence for decades, and are available to help you achieve your academic and career goals. The accessibility and friendliness of the faculty was a major factor in Narkhede choosing to attend NDSU.
“I explored computer science majors across different schools,” she said, “and NDSU really stood out because the professors are so supportive and ready to help you. That welcoming feeling made me think ‘yes, this is where I want to be.’”
As an NDSU student, you’ll be in an environment where your interests outside the classroom can also thrive. Away from the computer science labs and collaborative study areas in the Quentin Burdick Building, Narkhede is able to develop a different passion in music. She plays flute in the NDSU Wind Symphony, an ensemble whose roots at the university date back over 100 years.
“I’m a big musician, I love music,” said Narkhede. “I’m a part of the NDSU Wind Symphony, which does accept non-music majors. It just shows that you don’t have to be a certain major or anything to be a part of something here.”
Narkhede is also an Engineering Ambassador, a distinguished group of undergraduate students selected to represent the College of Engineering at events for alumni, industry leaders, prospective students and current students.
Narkhede encourages interested students to consider a degree in artificial intelligence.
When you graduate from the artificial intelligence program, you’ll be prepared to step into one of the fastest-growing fields in the world. Companies involved in AI development are always on the lookout for engineers, programmers, designers and developers who understand the full spectrum of AI uses. Labor market data shows that AI graduates find careers with employers like Apple, Amazon and CVS Health and earn an average annual salary of $125,300 within five years of completing their degree.
“I think it’s really important that we have more people specializing in AI,” she said, “and future college students should choose NDSU because of the community that’s here. Everyone is willing to accept who you are, and everyone is excited to work with you.”
See how NDSU is preparing students for exciting careers on the official NDSU YouTube channel.
Shape your future by applying today or scheduling a visit.