Middle Georgia State University to launch 1st AI bachelors program in USG system

Middle Georgia State University Launches State’s First Applied AI Bachelor’s Degree

Warner Robins, GA – August 2023 – Middle Georgia State University (MGA) is poised to lead the charge in artificial intelligence (AI) education, becoming the first university in the University System of Georgia to offer a bachelor’s degree in Applied AI. This groundbreaking program, launching in August 2025 at the Warner Robins campus, aims to prepare students for the demands of an increasingly AI-driven world.

“This is a brand new bachelor of science degree in applied artificial intelligence,” explains Dr. Kevin Floyd, associate dean of MGA’s School of Computing. “It’s an interdisciplinary degree that looks specifically at artificial intelligence, which is a branch of computer science that really focuses on how we use software to give machines human-like attributes.”

Addressing the Growing Need for AI Expertise

The decision to establish this program stems from the university’s recognition of AI’s pervasive impact across industries. The 120-hour degree program will combine a solid foundation in computer science with specialized AI coursework. This unique blend will also incorporate elements of business and psychology, providing a holistic understanding of AI’s broader implications.

“Artificial intelligence is just becoming more and more part of our everyday lives, is becoming more of a part of business,” says Dr. Floyd. “There’s a lot of ethical and legal issues surrounding the use of artificial intelligence.”

Opportunities at Home and Beyond

The program’s location in Warner Robins holds critically important potential for graduates. Robins Air Force Base, a major employer in the region, increasingly relies on AI technologies for its operations. MGA’s existing computer science and details technology programs have a strong track record of placing graduates in positions at the base.

Current MGA student Jonathan Hatcher sees the program as a valuable addition to the university’s offerings. “I know with the base they have to innovate and constantly build and change how they do things all the time,” he states. “AI allows for more generative processes in terms of testing, simulation, that kind of stuff.”

A Curriculum with a Focus on Ethics and Impact

The curriculum will delve not only into the technical aspects of AI but also its societal impact. “We want to give them an recognition for the power of artificial intelligence, the connection to computer science,” Dr. Floyd emphasizes. “We also want to make sure that they understand all the legal and ethical implications behind AI.”

The program will initially utilize existing faculty from MGA’s Department of Computer Science, with plans to recruit additional professors with specialized AI expertise as the program expands. The university anticipates an enrollment of 65 students in its initial year.

Career Pathways in an AI-Driven World

Graduates of the Applied AI program will be well-positioned for careers in a wide range of fields, including market research analysis, agri-tech data science, logistics, transportation planning, and AI solutions architecture. These skills are especially in demand in Georgia, where industries from agriculture to aerospace are embracing AI technologies.

“We firmly believe that this AI degree, working with our computer science department and program, will see graduates who will be able to get jobs at Robins,” said Dr. Floyd. “They’ll become leaders in software and IT cybersecurity at Robins.”

Prospective students interested in learning more about the Applied AI program can visit MGA’s website at mga.edu. Applications for the program, which begins in August 2025, are now open.

What career pathways do you see for graduates of this program?

Archyde News: Q&A with Dr. Kevin Floyd on Middle Georgia State University’s Groundbreaking Applied AI Degree

How did the idea for offering a bachelor’s degree in Applied AI at Middle georgia State University come about?

Dr. Kevin Floyd, Associate Dean of MGA’s School of Computing: Recognizing the growing impact of AI across various industries, we saw an opportunity to prepare our students for the demands of this increasingly digital world.This program will equip them with a strong foundation in computer science, supplemented by specialized AI coursework and elements of business and psychology to understand AI’s broader implications.

What unique advantages does this program offer, being the first of its kind in the University System of Georgia?

Dr. Floyd: It’s a unique interdisciplinary blend that looks specifically at artificial intelligence, focusing on giving machines human-like attributes. It also puts emphasis on understanding AI’s ethical and legal implications, which are often overlooked in more technical programs.

How does this program align with the needs of local employers like Robins Air Force Base?

Dr.Floyd: Robins Air Force Base, being a major employer in the region, relies heavily on AI technologies for its operations. We anticipate that our graduates will be well-positioned for career opportunities at the base and other local AI-driven businesses.

What can prospective students expect from the curriculum in terms of both technical skills and broader understanding?

Dr. Floyd: Our curriculum will delve deep into the technical aspects of AI while also focusing on its societal impact. We want students to recognize the power of AI,its connection to computer science,and understand all the legal and ethical implications behind it.

As AI becomes more integrated into our everyday lives and businesses, what kind of career pathways do you see for graduates of this program?

Dr. Floyd: Graduates can pursue careers in market research analysis, agri-tech data science, logistics, transportation planning, AI solutions architecture, and more. these skills are highly sought after across various industries in Georgia and beyond.

Looking ahead, what advice would you give to students considering the Applied AI program?

Dr. Floyd: Embrace the challenge offered by this program.It’s not just about learning technical skills, but also understanding how to navigate the complex landscape of AI’s implications. by doing so, you’ll be at the forefront of driving innovation and responsible AI progress.

For more details about the Applied AI program, visit MGA’s website at mga.edu. Applications are now open for the program starting in August 2025.