Santa Clara University Unveils Master of Science in Artificial Intelligence to Shape Ethical, Industry-Ready AI Experts
Santa Clara University’s School of Engineering has announced the launch of an innovative interdisciplinary Master of Science in Artificial Intelligence (MSAI) program. Designed to prepare students for leadership roles in the rapidly evolving field of artificial intelligence, the program emphasizes cutting-edge technical skills, ethical responsibility, and real-world application. The MSAI program will welcome its inaugural cohort in Fall 2025, addressing the surging demand for professionals who can design, implement, and manage AI systems responsibly.
Artificial intelligence is no longer a futuristic concept—it is transforming industries, redefining workflows, and reshaping our daily lives. From healthcare to transportation, finance to energy, AI technologies are driving innovation at an unprecedented pace. However, this rapid advancement also raises critical questions about ethics, accountability, and societal impact. Recognizing these challenges, Santa Clara University’s MSAI program aims to produce graduates who are not only technically proficient but also deeply committed to using AI as a force for good.
A Bold Step Forward in AI Education
“This new MSAI program represents a bold step forward in preparing the next generation of AI leaders,” said Kendra Sharp, dean of the School of Engineering. “What sets our program apart is its dual focus on software and hardware applications, robust integration of ethical training, and opportunities for hands-on AI practicums with Silicon Valley partners. Our graduates will leave equipped with the technical expertise and the values needed to use AI responsibly and effectively.”
The program offers two distinct concentrations—Computer Science and Engineering (CSEN) and Electrical and Computer Engineering (ECEN)—to cater to diverse student backgrounds and career aspirations. The CSEN concentration delves into the computational, algorithmic, and software foundations of AI, making it ideal for students with experience in computer science or software engineering. Meanwhile, the ECEN concentration explores hardware-oriented AI applications, such as embedded systems, the Internet of Things (IoT), robotics, and AI chip design, appealing to those with a background in electrical and computer engineering.
A Comprehensive Curriculum for Real-World Impact
The MSAI curriculum is thoughtfully designed to provide a balanced blend of foundational knowledge, advanced technical skills, and practical experience. Key components include:
- Essential Fundamentals: Courses in mathematics, ethics, and professional development ensure that students build a strong base while understanding the broader implications of their work.
- AI Foundational Courses: Students will explore core topics such as machine learning, deep learning, and reinforcement learning, gaining a comprehensive understanding of AI methodologies.
- Advanced Electives: Tailored to each concentration, these courses allow students to specialize in areas aligned with their interests and career goals, whether in software development or hardware design.
- AI Practicum: The program culminates in a capstone practicum where students collaborate with Silicon Valley partners on real-world industry or research-based projects. This hands-on experience bridges the gap between academic learning and practical application, ensuring graduates are ready to hit the ground running in their careers.
“Artificial intelligence is advancing at lightning speed, and we must ensure it evolves responsibly,” said Yi Fang, a professor of computer science and engineering and director of SCU’s Responsible AI initiative. “Through our MSAI program, students will not only gain technical mastery but also develop a critical understanding of AI’s societal impact. They will be empowered to create intelligent, trustworthy, and ethical technologies.”
Interdisciplinary Collaboration and Industry Engagement
The MSAI program leverages the combined expertise of Santa Clara University’s departments of Computer Science and Engineering and Electrical and Computer Engineering. This interdisciplinary approach fosters collaboration across fields, enabling students to tackle complex AI challenges from multiple perspectives. Additionally, the program aligns closely with the University’s Impact 2030 strategic plan, which prioritizes interdisciplinary collaboration, industry engagement, and the ethical application of emerging technologies.
Silicon Valley’s proximity to Santa Clara University provides a unique advantage, offering students unparalleled access to leading tech companies, startups, and research institutions. Through partnerships with these organizations, students will have opportunities to work on cutting-edge projects, network with industry leaders, and gain insights into the latest trends shaping the AI landscape.
Preparing Leaders Who Serve the Common Good
Graduates of the MSAI program will be uniquely positioned to drive innovation in AI-powered industries, including healthcare, transportation, energy, finance, semiconductors, and beyond. Beyond technical excellence, they will embody the Jesuit values of social responsibility and the common good, ensuring that their contributions to AI benefit society as a whole.
In a world increasingly shaped by artificial intelligence, the need for ethical, industry-ready AI leaders has never been greater. Santa Clara University’s MSAI program rises to meet this challenge, equipping students with the tools, knowledge, and values necessary to navigate the complexities of AI development and deployment. By fostering a culture of responsibility, innovation, and collaboration, the program ensures that its graduates are not just participants in the AI revolution—but leaders who shape its future.
