American University’s Kogod School of Business launches new AI-focused degree programs

Undergraduate and graduate options expand AI and business analytics education for students across disciplines.

The Kogod School of Business at American University has approved a new set of academic offerings in business analytics and artificial intelligence, including an undergraduate major and minor, a graduate master’s degree, and certificate and micro-credential badge programs.

Broader access to AI-focused study

Kogod, which has specialized in integrating technology with business education, says the expanded programs are designed to give students across multiple disciplines the ability to combine AI learning with their primary fields of study. While business students are the core audience, the school has also positioned the AI minor and certificates for students in STEM, arts, policy, and education.

Jonathan Alger, president of American University, says the programs are intended to prepare students for the broader impact of artificial intelligence on different industries. “At American University, we know that AI is reshaping every field, and we want our students to understand its social, ethical, and strategic impacts,” Alger says.

“I am particularly excited that students in non-business programs—STEM, the arts, policy, and education—can combine their majors with an AI minor. Doing so creates a powerful set of interdisciplinary skills, enabling business and non-business students to launch well in an AI economy.”

The university also plans to offer AI badges and a graduate certificate as stackable options, adding flexible pathways for students who want credentials without committing to a full degree.

Previous AI initiatives and ongoing investment

Since 2023, Kogod has expanded its AI integration through nearly 60 AI-related courses, a partnership with Perplexity AI to provide advanced enterprise tools to students and faculty, and the hiring of six faculty members specializing in AI and machine learning. It also launched the Institute for Applied Artificial Intelligence, a cross-campus hub focused on applied research.

Provost Vicky Wilkins says the expanded curriculum is meant to align AI learning with students’ existing areas of expertise. “These programs give students across our university the opportunity to pair AI savvy with their specific interests and areas of expertise,” Wilkins says.

Dean David Marchick adds that the goal is to make AI fluency a baseline expectation for graduates. “We are preparing students for a future where AI fluency is no longer optional. The goal is to have as many students from as many disciplines as possible become AI fluent, learn how to make ethical decisions, and drive innovation from day one,” Marchick says.