Kahlert School of Computing Launches Bachelor’s Degree in Artificial Intelligence - The John and Marcia Price College of Engineering at the University of Utah

The John and Marcia Price College of Engineering at the University of Utah, alongside the Kahlert School of Computing, has announced the launch of a new Bachelor’s degree in Artificial Intelligence. This initiative marks the first undergraduate program dedicated solely to artificial intelligence within the state of Utah. Applications for the inaugural cohort will open for the Fall 2026 semester. Coursework begins with foundational computer science and mathematics before advancing to specialized areas such as machine learning, data analysis, natural language processing, computer vision, and robotics. Director of the Kahlert School of Computing, Mary Hall, emphasized the necessity of training students to manage technology that has disrupted society. The program aims to equip learners with the skills to develop underlying technologies while also educating them on the ethical and effective use of AI systems. Unlike many existing offerings where artificial intelligence is nested within broader computer or data science programs, this major treats the field as a holistic discipline. Hall distinguished the two fields by noting that while data science focuses on leveraging data for decisions, artificial intelligence creates intelligent systems capable of autonomous action. To support this interdisciplinary depth, several new courses are being developed jointly with faculty from the Department of Philosophy and the Department of Mathematics. Current University of Utah students wishing to pursue this major are advised to meet with a computing undergraduate academic advisor. The new AI Major joins four existing undergraduate programs in the Kahlert School: Computer Science, Data Science, Software Development, and Computer Engineering. An AI Minor was previously established last Fall to complement various majors. With Utah consistently ranking among the top states for tech sector job growth, the program seeks to align student preparation with expanding industry demands. The University of Utah has established the first standalone undergraduate artificial intelligence degree in the state, addressing a gap between general computer science and specialized AI applications. By integrating ethics and interdisciplinary collaboration, the program positions itself to meet the growing demand for professionals who can manage autonomous systems rather than just analyze data. While the curriculum appears robust, the long-term impact on regional workforce readiness will depend on enrollment trends and industry partnerships. Future success hinges on maintaining relevance as the technology landscape evolves rapidly beyond current course offerings.