Preparing the Next Generation of Leaders in Artificial Intelligence

New interdisciplinary degrees provide a deep understanding of AI while preparing students for tomorrow’s careers.

AI graphic within University at Buffalo North Campus over Lake Lasalle.
headshot of Atri Rudra.
Researcher

Atri Rudra, Katherine Johnson Chair in Artificial Intelligence, Professor, Department of Computer Science and Engineering; Inaugural Chair, Department of AI and Society, School of Engineering and Applied Sciences

The University at Buffalo, an early pioneer in groundbreaking artificial intelligence research and development, is continuing its record as a trailblazer in AI.

Starting in the fall of 2025, UB is offering seven new degree programs that combine the rapidly evolving field of AI with traditional academic disciplines such as logic, language, communication, geography, policy analysis and economics. They are the first degrees of their kind in the nation.

The university has also launched two AI-focused minors—artificial intelligence, crime and society, and AI ethics. The new majors and minors are supported by $5 million in state funding awarded by Gov. Kathy Hochul to establish the Department of AI and Society (AIS) at UB.

Preparing for an AI-driven future

The new programs train students to apply AI tools to their respective disciplines and prepare them for the anticipated growth of AI applications across virtually all industries. They also give students a deep understanding of AI’s historical context and societal implications. The curriculum ranges from introductions to computational fundamentals to examinations of AI’s potential benefits and drawbacks for society.

“This is not just about infusing AI into other disciplines,” said Atri Rudra, the Katherine Johnson Chair in Artificial Intelligence and professor of computer science and engineering, who also serves as inaugural chair of the AIS department.

“As much as AI can benefit the arts, humanities and social sciences, AI desperately needs the arts, humanities and social sciences as well. We recognize that AI systems cannot benefit society without an AI workforce that understands society," Rudra said.

UB graduates with AI data graphic.

Just the beginning

The seven degrees, which follow an “AI + X” model, are:

  • AI and geospatial analysis
  • AI and language and intercultural competence
  • AI and language technology
  • AI and logic and ontology
  • AI and policy analysis
  • AI and quantitative economics
  • AI and responsible communication

The university estimates that more than 300 students will be enrolled in these degree programs by the programs’ fifth year.

And the new degrees are just the beginning of a much larger effort to educate students to lead in harnessing AI for the public good. Preparations are already underway to develop AI-focused degrees in more areas, and the AIS department is adding full-time faculty. The university is also planning an AI & Society Building that will feature computer labs, offices, conference rooms and space for community-oriented work in AI.

The University at Buffalo has been a worldwide leader in artificial intelligence research and education for nearly 50 years. This includes pioneering work creating the world’s first autonomous handwriting recognition system, which the U.S. Postal Service and Royal Mail adopted in the 1990s to save billions of dollars. As New York’s flagship university, UB continues that legacy of innovation today. More than 200 UB researchers are using AI for social good, including developing new AI-powered technology and ideas that tackle pressing societal challenges in education, health care, sustainability and other areas.