The University of Rhode Island plans to launch an interdisciplinary, applied artificial-intelligence bachelor's degree, with a spring 2027 start for initial coursework and a full launch in fall 2027.
The degree will be offered through the College of Business in cooperation with the College of Arts and Sciences, according to the university's Oct. 27 announcement.
Students will be able to pursue it as a standalone degree or a second major. The university said an internship will be required.
The curriculum is intended to combine technical work with questions about responsible use, privacy and consent.
Indrani Mandal, associate teaching professor of computer science and statistics, and Devendra "Dave" Kale, interim associate dean for undergraduate education in the College of Business, will lead the program. URI says spring 2027 offerings will include business analytics and AI courses in the College of Business and AI for Everyone, CSC/DSP 161, in Arts and Sciences. Those credits will apply toward the new major.