KENNESAW, Ga. – Kennesaw State University is set to introduce a master’s degree program in artificial intelligence, becoming the second institution in Georgia to offer such a program. This development solidifies the university’s position as a significant contributor to meeting the increasing demand for AI specialists.
The approval for the Master of Science in Artificial Intelligence (MSAI) degree by the Board of Regents of the University System of Georgia was granted on Monday, with the program scheduled to launch in the fall of 2024.
Overview of the Master of Science in Artificial Intelligence Program
Situated within the College of Computing and Software Engineering, the interdisciplinary MSAI program expands on the current Artificial Intelligence Concentration within the Department of Computer Science. The primary objective of the program is to equip graduates for various roles, including AI application developers, ethics researchers, product managers, research scientists, solutions architects, and algorithm developers.
President of Kennesaw State University, Kathy Schwaig, expressed her excitement about the new program, emphasizing, “The Master of Science in Artificial Intelligence underscores our university’s dedication to delivering cutting-edge education to our students while meeting the evolving demands of Georgia and beyond. The MSAI program will provide students with a dynamic learning environment that encourages collaboration and innovation as we nurture a new cohort of AI leaders.”
Operational Structure of the KSU Artificial Intelligence Program
The MSAI curriculum will capitalize on the university’s existing strengths in computer science, data science, information technology, and software engineering, offering a holistic approach to AI education. Ivan Pulinkala, the provost and executive vice president for academic affairs at KSU, stressed the significance of artificial intelligence in contemporary workforce preparedness, stating, “The MSAI degree will not only furnish our students with the essential skills and expertise to excel in diverse career fields but also empower them to lead in innovation and problem-solving.”
As per estimates by PricewaterhouseCoopers, the artificial intelligence sector is projected to contribute around $15.7 trillion to the global economy by 2030. Additionally, the Bureau of Labor Statistics anticipates a 21 percent increase in employment for computer and information research scientists from 2021 to 2031, underscoring the evident demand for AI professionals. Sumanth Yenduri, the dean of the College of Computing and Software Engineering, highlighted the program’s emphasis on practical experience, mentioning, “Our master’s program will prioritize hands-on learning and practical exposure, ensuring that our graduates are well-equipped to tackle real-world AI challenges.”
The MSAI program, comprising 30 credit hours, is designed to be completed in a year and a half by full-time students. However, an accelerated option allows for completion in just one year or three semesters. Students will participate in internships, collaborative projects, and capstone courses, enhancing their learning journey and readiness for a future driven by AI.
