Penn’s School of Engineering and Applied Science announced on Tuesday that it was launching a bachelor’s degree in artificial intelligence. The program, called The Raj and Neera Singh Program in AI, will be available to students starting in fall 2024. This milestone makes Penn the first Ivy League school to offer an undergraduate degree in artificial intelligence, and one of the first major United States universities to do so.
The curriculum of the AI program at Penn will cover a wide range of subjects, including machine learning, computing algorithms, cognitive science, and electrical and systems engineering. Students will also have the opportunity to concentrate in various areas such as robotics, vision/language, machine learning, data/society, and health/systems. The courses will be taught in Penn Engineering’s newest building, Amy Gutmann Hall.
According to a press release from the Engineering School, the goal of the program is to empower students to develop responsible AI tools that can utilize the vast knowledge available on the internet. This will enable them to make transformative scientific discoveries and advancements in healthcare. The program also aims to educate students on the widespread impacts of AI in engineering.
The introduction of this AI major at Penn has garnered much excitement among students and faculty members. Professor George Pappas, the UPS Foundation Professor of Transportation in Penn Engineering and the leader of the program, expressed his excitement about offering a cutting-edge program that will empower students to become leaders and innovators in AI.
The new major aligns with Penn Engineering’s tradition of being ahead of the curve in the field of technology and innovation. Robert Ghrist, the Associate Dean of Undergraduate Education in Penn Engineering, emphasized that the program represents Penn’s forward-thinking mentality and stated, We are future-oriented, and AI is part of our future.
Penn’s AI major is unique in that it combines efforts from the computer science and electrical and systems engineering departments. This fusion allows students to fully immerse themselves in the field of AI within an engineering context. Zachary Ives, Chair of the Department of Computer and Information Science, emphasized the importance of recognizing AI as its own discipline and distinct from other fields.
The AI degree program at Penn also offers an opportunity for education on the responsible use of AI. Vijay Kumar, the Nemirovksy Family Dean of Penn Engineering, sees the program as a means to tackle various challenges faced by society, from healthcare to urban infrastructure. He believes that AI will play a crucial role in discovering new materials, synthesizing antibiotics, and designing advanced chips and circuits.
Students are also thrilled about the opportunity to pursue a major solely dedicated to AI. Emma Twitmyer, an engineering sophomore, expressed her enthusiasm, stating that having all of her coursework and degree reflect her specific interest in AI is tremendously exciting.
The introduction of this AI major at Penn reflects the growing importance and demand for AI expertise. As AI continues to transform various industries, education in this field becomes increasingly valuable. Penn Engineering’s AI program aims to equip students with the necessary skills and knowledge to excel in this rapidly evolving field.
In conclusion, Penn’s School of Engineering and Applied Science is breaking new ground by becoming the first Ivy League school to offer an undergraduate degree in artificial intelligence. The Raj and Neera Singh Program in AI will provide students with a comprehensive curriculum and the opportunity to develop responsible AI tools. The program has generated immense excitement among students and faculty, positioning Penn as a leader in AI education.
