Fresno State launches artificial intelligence minor open to students across disciplines

FRESNO, Calif. (KFSN) -- As artificial intelligence becomes increasingly integrated into everyday life and the workforce, Fresno State is expanding educational opportunities to help students develop AI-related skills.

Beginning this fall, the university will offer a new minor in artificial intelligence that is open to students regardless of their major. University officials say the program is designed to help students understand how AI can be applied within their chosen fields of study.

"This is the minor who is designed for everybody," said Dr. Alex Liu, chair of Fresno State's Department of Computer Science. "Whoever wants to get more knowledge about AI, how to apply AI to their own discipline."

The minor consists of 20 to 21 units and includes four required courses and one elective. According to Liu, Fresno State already offered the necessary classes and had faculty expertise in place, making the creation of a formal minor a natural next step.

"When that is printed on the transcript or their diploma, it makes a difference, because that's a specialty that's being recognized by employers," Liu said.

University officials say the program reflects growing demand for AI skills in the workforce. Liu noted that the Central Valley faces unique opportunities and challenges related to artificial intelligence, including agricultural automation, rural health care access and workforce development.

He said the new minor was developed in response to both employer demand and student interest.

"So, with this all together, students need employer needs and the improved efficiency and productivities," Liu said. "We see though all these intersect together."

Students interested in adding the minor are encouraged to meet with academic advisers early in the fall semester to determine how the coursework could fit into their academic plans.

Liu said the program supports a broader vision for Fresno State's role in emerging technologies.

"We consider ourselves an AI hub of the Central Valley," he said. "So we want to provide education in AI. We also want to provide AI solutions to our employers."

In addition to the new undergraduate minor, Fresno State offers an AI certificate program for community members who are not currently pursuing a degree at the university.

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