David M. Keathly, associate chair for undergraduate studies in the Department of Computer Science and Engineering, discussed UNT's new Bachelor of Science in Artificial Intelligence program in recent interviews with FOX 4 Dallas-Fort Worth and The Christian Post. The degree is scheduled to launch in fall 2026 in the College of Engineering.

In a video on FOX 4 News | the Post, Keathly discussed the rapid growth of artificial intelligence technologies and the increasing need for universities to prepare students for careers in the field. The report highlighted UNT’s new undergraduate AI degree as part of a broader effort to equip students with specialized skills for emerging technology jobs.

“Students need a strong basis in fundamental computing concepts,” Keathly said during the interview, noting that AI tools are most effective when used by engineers with solid technical training.

Coverage in The Christian Post highlighted additional details about the program’s curriculum and workforce demand. According to Keathly, students will begin with core computing coursework such as programming, algorithms, data structures and discrete mathematics before moving into advanced AI topics including machine learning, natural language processing, large language models and large-scale data analysis.

The program will also include a two-semester capstone sequence featuring industry-sponsored projects designed to give students hands-on experience applying AI to real-world problems.

Keathly also noted that the curriculum emphasizes professional communication, teamwork and ethical considerations in technology development.

With industries across North Texas increasingly adopting AI technologies, the new degree aims to prepare students for careers developing and applying intelligent systems across a range of fields.

Screenshot image credit to Fox-4 News | the Post.