MBZUAI Launches Groundbreaking AI Undergraduate Program
Empowering future AI leaders with advanced knowledge and skills, fostering innovation and driving technological advancements in the field.
The Mohamed bin Zayed University of Artificial Intelligence (MBZUAI) is reshaping AI education by introducing its inaugural undergraduate program. This Bachelor of Science in Artificial Intelligence is unlike conventional AI degrees—it merges technical expertise with leadership, entrepreneurship, and industry experience, preparing students for real-world impact.
Multidisciplinary Curriculum for Future AI Leaders
MBZUAI’s undergraduate offering goes beyond traditional AI coursework. Students will build expertise in machine learning, natural language processing, computer vision, and robotics while gaining business, finance, market analysis, industrial design, and communication knowledge. The program’s hands-on approach fosters an entrepreneurial mindset, enabling students to drive AI transformations worldwide.
His Excellency Khaldoon Khalifa Al Mubarak, Chairman of MBZUAI’s Board of Trustees, stated: “This undergraduate program will play a transformative role in fulfilling our leadership’s vision of ensuring that the UAE continues to lead in AI research, application, and commercialization to drive innovation, economic growth, and societal progress. It will equip the next generation of homegrown talent with deep technical expertise and an understanding of AI’s broader impact. In doing so, it will strengthen the nation’s ability to foster a skilled workforce capable of driving AI advancements that benefit not only our country and the region but the world.”
Developing Visionary AI Innovators
This program is designed to shape not just AI engineers but also industry leaders, managers, and visionaries. In addition to technical skills, students will gain essential competencies in leadership, finance, law, and critical thinking—key elements for influencing AI’s future development and application across industries.
AI as an Educational Co-Pilot
A unique aspect of MBZUAI’s undergraduate program is its "co-pilot education model," where AI is seamlessly integrated into every facet of the learning experience. This model enhances students’ critical thinking and problem-solving abilities, ensuring they are well-prepared for the rapidly evolving AI landscape.
Exploring Cutting-Edge AI Applications
The curriculum will dive deep into emerging AI technologies such as deep learning, generative AI, and AI-driven scientific research. Students will also explore specialized fields like AI for healthcare, sustainable living, and mixed reality. Through hands-on projects, they will work alongside world-class experts and contribute to cutting-edge advancements, including MBZUAI’s flagship AI models, JAIS (the world’s most advanced Arabic LLM) and K2 (a third-party reproducible LLM that outperforms leading private-sector models).
MBZUAI President and University Professor Eric Xing emphasized the university’s forward-thinking approach: “Our undergraduate program will be the first of its kind, as it integrates AI education with entrepreneurship, problem-discovery, and key skills for a product journey. We are reshaping what it means to be educated in AI—producing not just engineers, but also entrepreneurs, designers, influencers, executives, and visionary innovators prepared to drive AI innovation in every sector at all stages.”
Blending AI with Humanities and Business
Beyond technical training, MBZUAI emphasizes cross-disciplinary education, encouraging students to engage with humanities, business, and liberal arts. They will participate in industry placements, internships, mentorships, and collaborations with leading AI companies and research institutions, ensuring a well-rounded education that extends beyond traditional STEM disciplines.
Professor Xing added, “Our students won’t just be taught theory and programming. They will graduate with critical understandings of society and people, of markets and the economy, and the practical experience and confidence to drive and lead AI initiatives, whether within established companies or through their own entrepreneurial ventures. We’re focused on preparing our graduates for the rapidly changing landscape of AI.”
Two Specialized Degree Pathways
The program offers two distinct tracks to cater to different career aspirations:
- Bachelor of Science in AI – Business: Focused on AI-driven business integration, entrepreneurship, and industry applications.
- Bachelor of Science in AI – Engineering: Concentrated on AI model development, deployment, and practical applications across various sectors.
State-of-the-Art Learning Environment
Students will have access to cutting-edge AI computational resources, intelligent classrooms, dedicated incubation hubs, and world-renowned faculty with expertise in both academia and industry. These resources will empower them to push the boundaries of AI innovation.
A Global Hub for Future AI Talent
Open to both local and international students, this pioneering program aims to attract the brightest minds in AI. By launching this innovative undergraduate degree, MBZUAI cements its position as a global leader in AI education and research.
“We are not just educating students; we are building future generations of the workforce and community of AI. With this undergraduate program, MBZUAI is setting a new standard in AI education, ensuring our graduates are equipped to transform industries and drive global progress,” Professor Xing concluded.
Comments