Hamburg, NY — Hilbert College is expanding its academic offerings with the launch of two new on-campus undergraduate programs: the Bachelor of Arts in Artificial Intelligence Studies and the Bachelor of Arts in Sports Communication. The new programs are designed to prepare students for emerging career opportunities in two rapidly evolving industries while reinforcing Hilbert’s commitment to hands-on learning, ethical leadership, and career-focused education.
The new Artificial Intelligence Studies program builds on the momentum of Hilbert’s recently launched Institute for Applied Artificial Intelligence, which emphasizes the responsible and human-centered use of AI technologies. Students in the program will explore artificial intelligence through an interdisciplinary lens, studying the ethical, social, creative, and professional impact of AI across industries and communities.
Rather than focusing solely on technical coding skills, the program emphasizes practical AI literacy, critical thinking, communication, ethical decision-making, and real-world application. Students will gain hands-on experience using industry-leading AI tools while learning how artificial intelligence is transforming business, media, healthcare, public service, and creative industries. The curriculum reflects Hilbert’s Franciscan values by encouraging students to approach technology with integrity, compassion, and responsibility.
“At Hilbert, we are not preparing students to compete against artificial intelligence. We are preparing them to lead because of how well they understand it,” said Michael R. Cornell, Interim President of Hilbert College. “The future belongs to people who can think critically, act ethically, communicate clearly, and use AI as a tool to solve real human problems. That is exactly what this program is built to do.”
The new Sports Communication program prepares students for careers in sports media, broadcasting, journalism, digital content creation, public relations, and sports storytelling. Combining communication strategy with the fast-paced world of athletics, the program gives students opportunities to develop skills in multimedia production, interviewing, reporting, social media management, sports analytics communication, and live event coverage.
Students will gain practical experience creating sports-focused content across digital and broadcast platforms while learning from faculty and Heard of Buffalo, an on-campus media production company that produces the Trainwreck Sports podcast. The program complements Hilbert’s existing strengths in digital media and sports industry management, providing students with opportunities for interdisciplinary collaboration and experiential learning.
“Sports communication is no longer confined to the broadcast booth,” said Cornell. “Today’s sports industry runs on storytelling, digital engagement, live content, analytics, and real-time connection with audiences around the world. This program prepares students to step into that environment with the creativity, confidence, and communication skills to lead the conversation, not just report on it.”
Both programs reflect Hilbert College’s emphasis on career readiness, small class sizes, individualized faculty mentorship, and applied learning experiences. Students will have opportunities to participate in internships, collaborative projects, and experiential coursework designed to connect classroom learning with professional practice.
The programs are now accepting students for the upcoming academic year.
To learn more about the new programs, visit Hilbert College Artificial Intelligence Studies, BA and Hilbert College Sports Communication, BA.
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