Artificial Intelligence Studies, BA

Artificial intelligence is transforming the way people communicate, learn, work, and make decisions across every industry and community. The Artificial Intelligence Studies major at Hilbert prepares students to critically examine AI as a cultural, ethical, philosophical, and social force while developing the analytical, communication, and applied AI literacy skills needed to navigate an AI-driven world.

Unlike traditional computer science or engineering programs, the Bachelor’s degree in Artificial Intelligence Studies is a humanities-based interdisciplinary program focused on ethics, governance, functional AI literacy, and human-centered analysis rather than coding or algorithm development. Students explore how AI technologies influence society, institutions, communication, labor, creativity, policy, and human identity while learning to analyze, interpret, and engage with emerging AI tools, systems, and the opportunities and challenges they create.

Grounded in Hilbert’s Franciscan values of service, compassion, and social responsibility, the program encourages students to approach these emerging technologies thoughtfully and creatively.

Why Study Artificial Intelligence Studies at Hilbert?

• Examine artificial intelligence through the lenses of philosophy, ethics, communication, social theory, and cultural analysis rather than technical programming alone.

• Develop the critical thinking, problem-solving, and ethical reasoning skills needed to evaluate how AI impacts privacy, labor, justice, communication, education, and society.

• Study AI from multiple academic perspectives, including philosophy, cognitive science, media studies, communication, and public policy.

• Build strong abilities in content creation, analysis, communication, research, problem-solving, and policy evaluation that apply across industries adapting to AI technologies.

• Learn how emerging technologies can be used responsibly and effectively to support inclusion, accessibility, equity, and community well-being.

What You’ll Study

Students in the Artificial Intelligence Studies program explore topics such as:

Coursework emphasizes discussion, analysis, writing, research, collaborative projects, case studies, hands-on exploration of AI tools and technologies, and applied ethical evaluation of real-world AI issues and technologies.

Educational Objectives

Graduates of the Artificial Intelligence Studies program will be able to:

• Demonstrate AI literacy by explaining foundational concepts and societal implications of artificial intelligence.
• Apply ethical reasoning to evaluate the social and moral impacts of intelligent systems.
• Analyze philosophical theories of mind, technology, and consciousness as they relate to AI.
• Integrate interdisciplinary perspectives from philosophy, ethics, cognitive science, and social theory to understand AI’s influence on human life.
• Conduct independent research that synthesizes philosophical and applied perspectives on AI and society.

Career Opportunities

The rapid expansion of artificial intelligence technologies has created growing demand for professionals who understand the ethical, social, and communication dimensions of AI systems.

Graduates may pursue careers in areas such as:

The program also provides excellent preparation for graduate study in communication, philosophy, ethics, public policy, law, media studies, technology studies, and related fields.

Academic Support and Student Success

Students in the program benefit from Hilbert’s network of academic and student support services, including:

• Faculty advising and mentorship
• Academic success counseling
• Professional tutoring and Tutor.com access
• Career development and internship support
• Accessibility Services and accommodations
• Counseling and wellness resources
• These services help students succeed academically while preparing for professional and personal growth throughout their college experience.

Artificial intelligence will continue to influence communication, education, healthcare, business, government, and everyday life. The Artificial Intelligence Studies major at Hilbert prepares students to understand these transformations and help shape a more ethical, inclusive, and human-centered future.