Bowie State University Launches Bachelor of Science in Artificial Intelligence

Degree advances workforce development, innovation and student success in one of the nation’s fastest-growing fields

Bowie State University will launch a Bachelor of Science in Artificial Intelligence in fall 2026. The 120-credit program will be offered on campus, expanding access to one of the nation’s most in-demand fields and preparing graduates to lead in an increasingly AI-driven economy.

“This new degree program represents a significant step forward in the university’s mission to provide students with academic programs that address society’s most pressing challenges and emerging opportunities,” said Dr. Aminta H. Breaux, president of Bowie State University. “As Maryland’s oldest historically Black university, we are committed to preparing a diverse generation of technology leaders who will help shape the future of artificial intelligence and ensure its benefits are developed and applied responsibly.”

Artificial intelligence is transforming industries worldwide, creating unprecedented demand for professionals with expertise in machine learning, data analytics, intelligent systems and AI-based decision-making. Bowie State’s new degree program will prepare students for careers in sectors including healthcare, cybersecurity, education, business, government and advanced technology while contributing to the growing innovation economy in Maryland and across the nation.

The degree aligns with the university’s strategic priorities of academic excellence, innovation, student success and community impact. It also reinforces Bowie State’s commitment to expanding opportunities in science, technology, engineering and mathematics and increasing representation in high-growth technology fields.

Students will build foundational and advanced knowledge of artificial intelligence through coursework emphasizing technical skills, critical thinking and ethical responsibility. The curriculum prepares graduates to develop, evaluate and implement intelligent technologies while addressing the societal and ethical implications of AI.

“Our faculty and students are already at the forefront of artificial intelligence research,” said Rosemary Shumba, chair of the Department of Computer Science. “Our faculty and students are already contributing to important advances in artificial intelligence research. Their work includes natural language processing, computer vision, robotics, autonomous technologies, AI ethics, and the development of AI models for medical applications. This new degree program will give students opportunities to participate in cutting-edge research, address real-world problems and graduate prepared to make meaningful contributions in one of the world’s fastest-growing fields.”

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About Bowie State University
Founded in 1865, Bowie State University is the first Historically Black College/University (HBCU) in Maryland and one of the ten oldest in the country. Bowie State has earned the ‘Research College and University’ designation in the 2025 Carnegie Research Activity Classification. As a leading institution of higher learning, Bowie State offers more than 65 bachelor's, master's, doctoral and certificate programs across arts and sciences, technology, business, education, healthcare and related disciplines. The university provides high-quality and affordable educational opportunities in a supportive environment that empowers students to think critically, make new discoveries, value differences and emerge as leaders in a highly technical, rapidly changing global society. For more information about Bowie State University, visit bowiestate.edu.

MEDIA CONTACT: Stacie Burgess, sburgess@bowiestate.edu, 301-860-4311