Ethics, governance, key pillars of interdisciplinary degree broadening focus of computer science education
A new undergraduate degree from the School of Computer Science is designed for students who want to understand, evaluate and work responsibly with artificial intelligence (AI).
The Bachelor of Artificial Intelligence with a major in human-centred AI (BAI) is a four-year honours degree that defines how the human-AI partnership can solve problems while keeping humans as both the creative source and the governing body.
As AI changes the workforce, this degree will help students grow with it.
“U of G is uniquely positioned to offer this Bachelor of Artificial Intelligence within Canada,” says Dr. Judi McCuaig, associate professor emerita in the School of Computer Science, who led the development of the BAI. “The program draws on our institutional strength as an interdisciplinary institution.”
Training students to use AI responsibly
The BAI places a heavy emphasis on ethics, governance, communication and understanding the impacts of AI. In consulting with various industries, the program development team learned that companies need people who can use AI accurately.
Because the technology is so new, few people are currently trained to fill this gap.
“This makes our program unique,” McCuaig says. “It is designed for students who recognize the fields they are interested in are going to require some use of AI and want to learn how to use it thoroughly and responsibly.”
With AI platforms evolving so quickly, the curriculum focuses on skills that last: scientific reasoning and rigorous evaluation of AI systems, rather than training in specific software.
A program like this is urgently needed, she adds. “People are using AI without really understanding the implications of what they’re doing.”
AI is everywhere, making U of G grads invaluable
The program has approximately 50% technical courses and 50% humanities and social science courses. There are eight core AI courses, four of which are theoretical and four project courses that will involve collaboration with external sponsors.
Experiential learning is integrated throughout the program; the Work Experience Program is an optional pathway that provides one paid work term, and a capstone project also requires students to work with external partners.
Dr. Daniel Gillis, professor in the College of Computational, Mathematical and Physical Sciences (CCMPS), is among the new degree’s faculty.
The program’s focus on applying human skills to AI in a meaningful way presents an opportunity for U of G to tell the world it is positioned to provide solutions, he says.
“When it comes to AI, we often fail to step back and ask, how might this go wrong? This program will attract people who ask those questions, who want to have meaningful impact and do as little harm as possible.”
For a generation of students facing real concerns about how AI is impacting the job market, Gillis says this program will only increase employment pathways, leaving students with future-ready skills applicable across industries.
Future of technology requires humans
“Artificial intelligence is a present reality in our economy and society. The Bachelor of Artificial Intelligence positions the University of Guelph at the forefront of this transformation by preparing students to lead with both technical excellence and ethical responsibility, in alignment with our values as an institution,” says Dr. Stacey Scott, dean, College of Computational, Mathematical and Physical Sciences in the School of Computer Science.
“We believe the future of technology must remain firmly centred on people. Our human-centred AI graduates will be ready to build innovative solutions, thoughtfully navigate the complexity of AI’s impact on people and the environment, and contribute to stronger, more resilient communities.
“This program reflects our commitment to preparing students for successful careers that also help shape a better future,” Scott adds.
Pending formal approval, the first cohort of the Bachelor of Artificial Intelligence will begin in the 2027-28 academic year.