Oklahoma State Universities to Offer Artificial Intelligence Degree Programs
Introduction
The Oklahoma State Regents for Higher Education has announced that several universities in Oklahoma, including the University of Oklahoma (OU), will now offer undergraduate degree programs in artificial intelligence (AI), bringing this emerging field of study to the state for the first time. This decision comes as the demand for AI professionals continues to grow across various industries.
Program Proposals and Implementation
The Oklahoma State Regents for Higher Education presented the AI program proposal for OU during a meeting held on May 31. Alongside OU, Rose State College and Southwestern Oklahoma State University will also be offering AI degree programs. However, the timeline for implementing these programs has not been specified in the press release.
Growing Significance of AI Degrees
Carnegie Mellon University became the first university in the United States to offer a bachelor’s degree in AI back in 2018. Now, with OU and Southwestern Oklahoma State University joining the movement, students in Oklahoma will have the opportunity to pursue a bachelor’s degree in AI. Additionally, Rose State College will offer an associate’s degree in AI and machine learning. Both traditional and online course options will be available to accommodate different learning preferences.
Aiming for Leadership in AI
Oklahoma Governor Kevin Stitt expressed his support for the newly established AI degree programs, highlighting the transformative impact of AI in various aspects of our lives. He believes that these programs will position Oklahoma as a leader in the AI revolution and equip students with the necessary skills to thrive in the job market.
A Bright Future for AI Professionals in Oklahoma
According to the press release, there are currently over 19,000 AI-related jobs in Oklahoma, offering a median annual earning of nearly $106,000. It is projected that the number of AI-related positions in the state will increase by 21% over the next decade. This surge in demand for AI education is fueled by the widespread adoption of machine learning technology across industries such as healthcare, finance, manufacturing, and aerospace.
Commitment to AI Research and Education
Oklahoma takes pride in being the first state in the nation to establish a statewide committee focused on AI impacts in higher education. State Regents Chancellor Allison D. Garrett represents Oklahoma on the Southern Regional Education Board’s Commission on Artificial Intelligence in Education, which strives to lead the use of AI in teaching, learning, and career preparation. The goal is to ensure that Oklahoma’s institutions produce skilled graduates who can meet the state’s current and future AI workforce needs.
Embracing New Career Opportunities in AI
Jack Sherry, the State Regents Chair, emphasized the increasing significance of AI in the job market. Career prospects in areas such as machine learning, data science, robotics, and AI ethics are on the rise, and Oklahoma’s state system colleges and universities are ready to fulfill the demand by offering comprehensive AI programs.
Conclusion
Oklahoma is investing in the future by introducing undergraduate AI degree programs at several universities. With a rapidly growing demand for AI professionals and the transformative nature of AI across industries, these programs aim to equip students with the skills needed for successful careers in this field. By establishing a statewide committee focused on AI impacts in higher education, Oklahoma is actively preparing its institutions to remain at the forefront of AI education and research.
Question and Answers
1. Why is the announcement of AI undergraduate degree programs significant?
The announcement is significant because it marks the first time AI undergraduate degree programs will be offered in Oklahoma. This provides students with the opportunity to pursue studies in this emerging field.
2. Which universities in Oklahoma will offer AI degree programs?
The University of Oklahoma (OU), Rose State College, and Southwestern Oklahoma State University will offer AI degree programs.
3. What types of AI degrees will be available to students?
OU and Southwestern Oklahoma State University will offer bachelor’s degrees in AI, while Rose State College will offer an associate’s degree in AI and machine learning.
4. How does the governor see the AI programs benefiting Oklahoma?
Governor Kevin Stitt believes that the AI programs will position Oklahoma as a leader in the AI revolution and prepare students to excel in the evolving job market.
5. What is the projected future for AI professionals in Oklahoma?
With over 19,000 AI-related jobs in Oklahoma currently, and an expected 21% increase in AI positions over the next decade, the future for AI professionals in the state looks promising.
