The University of Kentucky has announced the launch of Kentucky’s first Bachelor of Science in artificial intelligence, marking a significant expansion of its undergraduate academic offerings. The program, which will be housed within the Department of Computer Science, is scheduled to welcome its inaugural cohort of students in Fall 2026.
As part of the Stanley and Karen Pigman College of Engineering, the new degree is structured as a 120-credit-hour program that incorporates core computer science principles alongside advanced studies in artificial intelligence, machine learning, and data analytics. The curriculum focuses on essential skills such as programming, algorithms, and computational modeling, with a particular emphasis on Python and AI applications including automation, data-driven decision-making, and human-computer interaction.
Rudy Buchheit, Ph.D., Dean of the Pigman College of Engineering, emphasized the urgency of developing such a program, stating, “AI is powerful technology that is growing rapidly, and in order to not only meet the talent demand but develop experts who will advance science and mitigate unintended consequences, we knew we needed to provide a dedicated degree program in this area.” He further noted that Kentucky would be among a select number of universities nationwide offering a dedicated bachelor’s degree in AI, positioning UK as an attractive destination for students pursuing specialization in this dynamic field.
In shaping the curriculum, faculty members in the Department of Computer Science emphasized the importance of understanding both the practical and theoretical aspects of AI. Brent Harrison, Ph.D., Associate Professor and Director of Undergraduate Studies, remarked, “When you enroll in this program, you’re going to come out of it really knowing how AI works and knowing how to use it in the right way.” He stressed that a solid grounding in core computing principles remains essential for aspiring AI professionals: “Creating machines that can understand, think and learn from their surroundings has historically (and currently) been a computing problem.”
Ethical considerations will be integral to the program, with all students required to complete a dedicated AI ethics course. “We really want to make sure that not only are our graduates effective users, but that they are ethical and responsible users of AI,” Harrison said, highlighting the program’s commitment to fostering a sense of responsibility among future AI practitioners.
Students enrolled in the AI degree program will also have access to various research opportunities across the university. They will collaborate with faculty on interdisciplinary projects that explore areas such as digital humanities, interactive storytelling, and human-centered machine learning. Harrison noted, “I think what makes AI at UK special is the faculty. We have so many interesting, ongoing projects — from Brent Seales’ work in digital humanities to Stephen Ware’s research at the intersection of AI, storytelling and game design.”
The launch of the AI degree aligns with a growing trend as industries across Kentucky increasingly adopt AI-driven technologies in sectors such as health care, agriculture, manufacturing, automotive, and food and beverage production. Harrison asserted, “AI isn’t going anywhere, and our job is to make sure our graduates are prepared to create positive change in the Commonwealth and beyond. We want them to enter the workforce ready to shape policy and help decision-makers make informed choices.”
In addition to the new bachelor’s degree, the University of Kentucky plans to offer an Undergraduate Certificate in artificial intelligence, making the program accessible to students from various disciplines. This initiative reflects a broader commitment to equipping a diverse student population with the skills necessary to thrive in an increasingly AI-centric job market.
Meanwhile, the ETIH Innovation Awards 2026 have been launched, recognizing educational technology organizations that are making notable impacts across K–12, higher education, and lifelong learning sectors. Open to entries from the UK, the Americas, and internationally, the awards will evaluate submissions based on evidence of outcomes and real-world applications.
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