The enrollment in college AI degree programs is rapidly increasing. Is it worth the expense?

• AI-focused degrees are increasingly being offered by schools in response to the growing excitement surrounding artificial intelligence.
• As technology companies face a shortage of AI talent, the demand for AI-specific associate's, bachelor's, master's, and PhD programs has increased, with half of the highest-paid skills in technology being AI-specific, according to Indeed.com.
• Over the past decade, the number of AI degree awards has significantly increased, yet a strong foundation in computer science, mathematics, and engineering principles remains crucial.

With the increasing demand for AI jobs, many colleges and universities are now offering a four-year "AI" degree specifically in computer science.

Programs in artificial intelligence often delve into areas beyond the basics of computer science, such as machine learning, algorithms, data analytics, and robotics. The University of Pennsylvania recently announced that its B.S.E. in Artificial Intelligence program will start in fall 2024. Carnegie Mellon introduced its program in fall 2018, and MIT's program began in fall 2022. Purdue University offers an AI undergraduate major, while many colleges and universities provide AI classes within their computer science department, even if there isn't a dedicated major.

As technology continues to advance, companies are struggling to find qualified candidates for AI-related jobs. According to Indeed.com, half of the highest-paid technology skills are AI-specific. However, there is some doubt about the value of a four-year degree in AI, given how quickly the technology is evolving. Nonetheless, proponents argue that as long as a program emphasizes computer science and other fundamental concepts, a focus on AI could enhance a student's resume.

Anyone considering a new career or returning to school should be aware of the information about a four-year AI degree.

STEM fundamentals remain critical

To succeed in a career in AI, students should look for a program that teaches fundamental concepts such as computer science, statistics, mathematics, and engineering, which form the foundation for an AI-related field, according to Kerem Koca, CEO of BlueCloud, a cloud service provider. These core underpinnings remain relevant even as technology evolves, and can prepare students for success in the future.

Maria Flynn, president and CEO of Jobs for the Future, emphasized in an email that AI degrees and other education training programs should not solely focus on developing specific skills, but should also prioritize teaching students how to learn, including cultivating intellectual curiosity and skills such as leadership, communication, and critical thinking.

AI degree spike since 2011

Over the past decade, the number of programs concentrating on AI at both the undergraduate and graduate levels has grown significantly, resulting in an increase in the number of degrees being granted.

Since 2011, AI degrees have experienced positive growth in degree conferral, while other degree areas have seen negative growth. Additionally, AI-related degree awards have grown even faster than STEM degrees as a whole at bachelor's, master's, and PhD levels. The Georgetown University Center for Security and Emerging Technology described the growth of AI degree conferrals as "dramatic," with an increase of 120% since 2011 at both bachelor's and master's levels.

Several schools, including Miami Dade College, offer an associate's degree in AI for some students.

Education relevance in fast-changing tech market

Some students may question whether obtaining a degree is necessary, considering the rapidly changing job market and the increasing number of employers who are open to hiring workers with the necessary skills, even without a degree.

While recent research suggests that hiring people without degrees may not be effective, a study by the Ladders career site reveals that a degree is still necessary for the highest paying jobs, including software engineers.

According to Celeste Grupman, CEO of Dataquest, a four-year degree is still a significant advantage for job seekers entering the market for the first time. Employers prioritize this qualification, and not having one could hinder a candidate's chances.

Several providers, including Dataquest and Coursera, offer certificate programs for learners to quickly acquire skills. These programs may be suitable for students who lack the time and resources to complete a four-year program or already have a degree and are seeking to enhance their abilities. An online platform enables students to promptly begin constructing projects and comprehend how to apply these tools effectively for employment purposes.

AI vs. computer science

Students should critically evaluate the curriculum of a computer science program, considering its differences from a standard curriculum, potential career trajectory for graduates, and economic outcomes.

Students should carefully consider their goals when choosing an AI program. They should decide whether they want exposure to AI or practice using AI, or if they want a technical program that provides foundational content and courses on AI technology. Additionally, they should consider whether they want skills and knowledge that will get them into the labor market immediately or a broader degree that will be a foundation for long-term advancement.

Nichol Bradford, an AI and human intelligence executive-in-residence with SHRM, stated that if you're an architect, you don't need a degree in hammers. Instead, you need to understand hammers, zoning, and how to build a house that brings a family to life. Similarly, in AI, you need to understand the technology, regulations, and how to use it to improve people's lives.

How to gain an edge with employers

David Leighton, CEO of WITI, believes that an AI-specific degree may be more favorable to some employers compared to a plain computer science degree, as it sets individuals apart.

While it is uncertain what the value of an internet degree will be in the future, in 2000, it would have been highly valued. However, its applicability has decreased over time. On the other hand, a degree in AI could have been highly valuable in 2002 and could still be in the future.

According to some professionals, students can either pursue a traditional computer science degree or an AI-specific one, as long as they cover the fundamentals. Those who choose the former should take classes in AI and data science to enhance their future employment prospects. Alternatively, students who opt for the latter may need to bridge the practical application gap themselves post-graduation, advised Bryan Ackermann, head of AI strategy and transformation at Korn Ferry, in an email.