UNO offering new major in artificial intelligence
It’s the first artificial intelligence bachelor’s degree offered in Nebraska
OMAHA, Neb. (WOWT) - UNO is embracing the growing field of artificial intelligence.
Interest in artificial intelligence has skyrocketed. According to Google trends, it really started to take off in November of 2022, when ChatGPT launched. Since then, Google searches related to the topic have increased five-fold. In the metro, UNO is working to keep up.
Starting next fall, UNO students can major in artificial intelligence: The first bachelor’s degree offering in the state. Professor Mahadevan Subramaniam is the faculty member behind the push.
“We wanted to do it fast, not just because we wanted to be first, but we didn’t want to miss the tide that’s going on. One year later would’ve been too late because AI is progressing very fast,” said Subramaniam. “Artificial intelligence is almost like electricity or it’s a utility.”
He explained how AI permeates and penetrates many industries. For example, Boston partnered with Google to use AI to improve traffic patterns. Some hospitals are testing AI to recommend tests or predict disease. Banks use AI-driven chatbots to offer personalized advices.
“The projected growth is massive,” said Dean Martha Garcia-Murillo of the College of Information, Science and Technology.
She also recognizes there are potential consequences of AI.
“I see this technology not as a threat but more as complement. Now that is not to say there are not negative elements. There are negative elements to this technology, so for us it is important that were are not only ahead of the technology but that we’re also very mindful.”
The major will require core classes like computer science, statistics, and probability. The electives are what professors say give the program and students flexibility to keep up with the evolving industry.
The University of Nebraska Board of Regents approved the major Thursday. Even though it’ll start next fall, students can start taking classes that’ll be part of the curriculum to get a head start.
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