The University of Hawaiʻi at Hilo is reshaping how students learn about artificial intelligence (AI)—starting this fall.
The College of Business and Economics will launch a new AI concentration within its bachelor of business administration program. A new AI certificate will also open to students from all majors. New courses will follow, focused on using AI in business, science and public service.
The shift responds to a clear need in today’s workforce.
“AI is no longer a niche or emerging technology,” said Sukhwa Hong, associate professor of data science and business administration. “It’s already embedded in how work gets done across almost every field.”
Students will learn how to work with data, evaluate AI-generated results and apply these tools responsibly.
AI confidence
The new program is being led by Hong and Chenbo Shi, an assistant professor of quantitative business analysis, who are working closely with faculty in business, data science and computer science to support the new offerings.
“We want students to graduate knowing that AI will not replace them,” Hong said. “But people who know how to integrate AI into their work will have a clear advantage.”
The AI certificate is designed to be accessible. It welcomes students from education, the arts, social sciences and beyond.
New courses
A new introductory course will teach students how to guide AI tools, evaluate results and communicate findings. A community-based project will tie those skills to real-world issues.
Upper-division courses have also been updated. They now include AI-supported analysis, prediction and decision-making, with a strong focus on ethics.
“Employers aren’t looking for AI specialists in every role,” Hong said. “They’re looking for professionals who can use AI effectively in context.”
—by Susan Enright
For more go to UH Hilo Stories.
