This fall, North Carolina Central University (NCCU) is breaking new ground by launching the ‘Institute for Artificial Intelligence and Emerging Research.’ It’s an exciting time as this initiative positions NCCU as a leader in AI education among historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs). “This institute is the first of its kind nationally, and we’re very proud of that,” says Dr. Siobahn Day Grady, the director of the institute.
The program is set to equip 200 students with the skills they need to thrive in the fast-growing world of artificial intelligence. Thanks to a generous $1 million grant from Google.org, the institute is ready to provide a transformative educational experience over the next two years. Dr. Grady explains, “Through AI literacy and hands-on opportunities, we can really help our students and the entire campus community understand that AI is a tool.”
But NCCU isn’t the only school stepping up its AI game. North Carolina Agricultural & Technical State University is planning to roll out its bachelor’s degree in AI by fall 2025, initially welcoming up to 150 students. “Our bachelor’s degree will enable our graduates to help create real-world solutions to complex global issues and shape a brighter future through science and technology,” shares CoST Dean Abdellah Ahmidouch.
Meanwhile, Duke University’s master’s program in AI, which started in 2021, is seeing a surge in interest. “Every year it’s grown quite a bit,” notes Jon Reifschneider, the program’s executive director. “Last year we grew about 30%, and we anticipate growing about another 30% in terms of applications.” This boom in AI academic offerings is boosting job prospects for students, especially in Durham County, a hotspot for tech innovation.
Reifschneider highlights the advantages, saying, “We’ve got a highly educated workforce, some great companies, and big tech firms doing research here in the Triangle. I think the rise of academic AI programs is really creating a new breed of students who are equipped right from the start.”
