Syracuse University will launch bachelor’s and master’s degree programs in Artificial Intelligence Science this fall, arguing that AI has evolved beyond a specialization within computer science. Alex Jones, chair of the university’s Electrical Engineering and Computer Science Department, said AI has developed its own body of knowledge involving machine learning, information theory, learning algorithms, data-centric methodologies, and computing architectures. The university noted that “U.S. job postings requiring AI skills grew 144 percent year over year as of April 2026, compared to 7 percent growth for all job postings combined.” Jones stated that organizations need graduates who understand the underlying principles of AI, not just how to use today’s tools. The bachelor’s degree will feature separate software and hardware concentrations, with the software concentration focusing on machine learning, generative AI, agentic systems, reasoning, and model adaptation, and the hardware concentration exploring GPUs, TPUs, AI accelerators, memory systems, and emerging architectures. The programs are housed in Syracuse University’s College of Engineering and Computer Science. Graduates may pursue careers as AI engineers, AI scientists, researchers, software developers, and entrepreneurs, with opportunities in healthcare, energy, cybersecurity, defense, manufacturing, and finance.