How to choose a bachelor's in artificial intelligence
By: Sarah Edwards, Edited by: Rebecca Munday
Published: March 21, 2025
Would you like to work with cutting-edge technology and help build the future of professions like cybersecurity and data analytics? You may be a prime candidate for a bachelor's in artificial intelligence (AI). Find out how to discover and enroll in a degree program to help you make your dream career a reality.
Guide to choosing a bachelor's degree in artificial intelligence
With such a new technology on the horizon, are you wondering how to choose a bachelor's in artificial intelligence that fits your needs and professional goals? Evaluating these five elements before you enroll can go a long way in ensuring you end up in the best program for you.
Research your school's accreditation status
The Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET) is responsible for accrediting many bachelor's degree programs in the fields of computing and engineering technology.
The organization has established long-held and globally recognized standards for these programs and expects accredited institutions to maintain a high standard for faculty qualifications, curriculum development, and student outcomes.
Attending an ABET-accredited school can give you peace of mind that you are building the necessary skills for success in AI roles, including:
- Applying principles of computing to solve complex problems
- Designing, implementing, and evaluating computing-based solutions to meet a set of requirements
- Displaying effective communication and collaboration in professional settings
- Understanding and adhering to legal and ethical principles in computing
Keep in mind that, while ABET grants programmatic accreditation, it voluntarily does not participate with the Department of Education or Council for Higher Education Accreditation, which grants institutional accreditation. Institutional accreditation may be required for you to receive federally funded or private loans, grants, and scholarships.
Check out the teaching staff's credentials
Artificial intelligence is one branch of the technology world in which rapid and ongoing development can often occur. Consequently, it's essential that the teaching faculty in the program you choose has extensive experience working with AI technology.
This can help them translate theoretical concepts into practical examples to aid in your understanding of the course material. Additionally, learning from staff who have recent experience in the field helps ensure they are teaching up-to-date concepts relevant to the modern workplace.
Finally, when teaching staff have experience in the field, they may be able to help you make professional connections that can propel your career forward.
Ask about available specializations
As you pursue a career in AI, you may become interested in a particular role or field. In that case, it might be beneficial to speak with program administrators to see if the school offers specializations, concentrations, or minors to support your career goals.
For example, you may wish to build predictive models with large datasets to help business leaders make better decisions. Doing so may require a concentration in data analytics, and you may want to ensure your chosen school offers that before you enroll.
Keep in mind that some schools offer additional certificate programs instead of specializations or concentrations, which may require additional coursework.
Consider the school's extracurricular activities
Participating in extracurricular activities can offer a variety of benefits to you as a student. It provides you with an opportunity to network with and learn from like-minded students, faculty, and alumni, which can boost interpersonal and other soft skills.
It may also help you learn new skills or enhance the ones you already have through your participation in personal projects on topics you are passionate about.
Make sure to ask whether the school hosts or participates in hackathons or coding competitions. These fun and collaborative events can give you hands-on experience with AI applications, which can give you an edge in the job market.
Look into school-wide resources
When learning how to choose a bachelor's in artificial intelligence, school resources can be an important consideration. Since you will be working closely with new technology, make sure the school can provide you with access to computer applications and other resources that give you practical experience.
In addition to technical resources, inquire about alumni mentorship programs and career counseling. Participating in these opportunities can help you align your course selection with your professional goals, give you opportunities to network with those in the field, and show you what you need to do to make yourself competitive for future roles in AI.