Here is how we reshape academic disciplines with AI
UB offers nation's first AI+X interdisciplinary degrees
The programs will be offered in collaboration with the University at Buffalo's new Department of AI and Society, which is supported by $5 million in state funding awarded by New York State Governor Kathy Hochul.
The degree programs will prepare students to apply AI tools to their respective disciplines, give them a deep understanding of AI’s historical context and societal implications, and provide them with a valuable skillset in a labor market where AI knowledge is increasingly desirable.
The degrees include:
- AI and geospatial analysis (Department of Geography)
- AI and language and intercultural competence (Department of Romance Languages and Literatures)
- AI and language technology (Department of Linguistics)
- AI and logic and ontology (Department of Philosophy)
- AI and policy analysis (Department of Political Science)
- AI and quantitative economics (Department of Economics)
- AI and responsible communication (Department of Communication)
UB estimates that over 300 students will enroll in the degree programs by their fifth year. The university also aims to form additional degrees that merge AI and other disciplines, and is planning an AI & Society Building that will feature computer labs and space for community-oriented work in AI.
“This is not just about infusing AI into other disciplines,” says Atri Rudra, inaugural chair of the Department of AI and Society. “We recognize that AI systems cannot benefit society without an AI workforce that understands society.”
