New minor in artificial intelligence available for all W&M undergraduates

Artificial intelligence isn't just a technological marvel; it's rapidly reshaping every sector, from finance and healthcare to the arts and humanities. The question isn't whether AI will impact your chosen field, but how you will navigate and leverage its power. William & Mary is answering this challenge with a groundbreaking new minor in Artificial Intelligence, designed to equip students from *any* discipline with the essential skills and ethical foresight needed to thrive in an AI-driven world.

AI Fluency for Every Future Leader

Many believe AI is solely the domain of computer scientists, but this perspective misses the profound, widespread impact it's having. As Dean Doug Schmidt of the School of Computing, Data Sciences & Physics emphasizes, “AI is no longer just for computer scientists; it’s transforming art, history, law, business – practically every discipline.” This new minor isn’t about turning every student into a coder; it’s about fostering AI fluency. It enables students to apply AI tools and principles within their specific areas of study, bringing a much-needed interdisciplinary perspective to technical advancements.

Bridging Technology and Ethical Understanding

The W&M AI minor offers more than just technical training. Its curriculum uniquely integrates hands-on experience with a robust framework for ethical responsibility. Students delve into critical questions surrounding privacy, equity, and the societal implications of AI, learning not only how these systems work but also how they *should* be used. This dual focus ensures graduates are not just skilled practitioners but also thoughtful leaders prepared to address complex challenges. Tucker Peters ’28, a finance major and president of the W&M AI Club, highlights this crucial blend: “The AI minor gives undergraduates the chance to pair William & Mary’s historic liberal arts education with the cutting edge of technology, preparing them to lead and innovate in their fields.”

Practical Application and Adaptability

Through practical exercises and real-world applications, students gain concrete problem-solving skills, understanding AI’s strengths and inherent limitations. The program is built with adaptability at its core, recognizing the rapid evolution of AI. Faculty will continuously update course content to reflect the latest advancements, ensuring students develop the resilience and flexibility necessary to navigate a landscape of constant innovation.

A Foundation for Tomorrow’s Innovations

This minor represents a foundational step, paving the way for potential future B.A. and B.S. degrees, as well as graduate programs in AI. Its aim is clear: to create multiple pathways for students to achieve deep fluency in AI, positioning them for success across a diverse range of careers. Graduates of this program will not merely work in AI-driven industries; they will be uniquely prepared to lead, question, and innovate with a comprehensive understanding that only a William & Mary education can provide.

Are you ready to shape the future, not just react to it? Explore how the AI minor can empower your academic journey and career aspirations. Discover more about the program and how you can become a leader in the next wave of innovation.