Artificial intelligence spans several areas in computer science and has applications in virtually every sector of modern life, from the economy to government to entertainment and education.
New Mexico State University will be offering the state’s first Bachelor of Science in artificial intelligence starting in fall 2026. The degree was approved by the state’s Higher Education Department and the Higher Learning Commission this spring.
“NMSU’s BS in AI will provide students with a strong foundation in machine learning, automated reasoning, human-computer interaction, data mining, natural language processing, autonomous agents, and ethical and societal aspects of AI,” said Enrico Pontelli, dean of the College of Arts and Sciences and senior adviser to the provost for AI.
AI jobs are those where a significant portion of the tasks can be performed or aided by artificial intelligence. This means that it is likely to impact the way these jobs are done, potentially leading to automation, new job roles or changes in required skills. Pontelli emphasized AI should be viewed as an opportunity.
“Artificial intelligence is a very broad and multifaceted field,” Pontelli said. “The emphasis of NMSU’s BS-AI degree program will be to enable students to address in an analytical and scientific manner problems that are associated to the development of AI solutions. The program will provide its graduates with the necessary skills to succeed in any type of jobs that connect to artificial intelligence.”
Pontelli explained the hands-on activities within the degree program will prepare students for success in the workplace, filling a gap in New Mexico’s and the national workforce, while helping them become leaders in the development of innovative AI-driven solutions. The methodological foundations will prepare students to advance in their careers as well as prepare them for access to research-oriented careers and advanced degrees.
NMSU President Valerio Ferme championed the creation of NMSU’s Institute for Applied Practice in AI and Machine Learning. The institute was recently featured in the NMSU Foundation’s 1888 fundraising campaign, which Ferme supported with matching funds.
Pontelli, a point of contact for the New Mexico AI Consortium, coordinates the institute. With $2 million from the New Mexico Legislature, NMSU will be able to elevate research and educational capabilities in AI to serve the workforce, research and economic development needs of the state and support state-wide initiatives like the New Mexico AI Consortium. To support NMSU’s AI Institute, click here.
“The mission of the AI institute is to bring together AI researchers, educators and practitioners at NMSU and lead the region and the state in the application of AI models and technologies to practical solutions that address real-world challenges relevant to New Mexico.”
The NMSU AI Institute will dovetail with the BS in AI by providing scholarships and resources to ensure equitable access to AI education; building state-of-the-art labs and facilities for innovative research; attracting world-class researchers, educators and innovators to contribute their expertise; and developing solutions that address societal and environmental challenges, making a tangible difference in the lives of individuals in the state and around the globe.
“The Bachelor of Science in AI is just one component of a big picture, said Pontelli. “This big picture is going to include community colleges, it’s going to include graduate programs, and it’s going to include micro-credentials through an NMSU Global. There is a unified vision and a big picture that we are going to achieve.”
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