Fresno State Expands AI Education with New Minor

Fresno State University is responding to the growing demand for artificial intelligence skills in the workforce by launching a new minor program. The university’s Department of Computer Science has developed this 20-21 unit minor, which will be available to students across all disciplines starting this fall.

The minor is designed to equip students with a deeper understanding of how AI can be applied within their chosen fields of study. According to Dr. Alex Liu, chair of the Department of Computer Science, ‘this minor is for everybody’ who wants to gain knowledge about AI and its applications.

Fresno State already offers the necessary classes and has faculty expertise in place, making it a natural next step to formalize the program as a recognized minor. The four required courses will provide students with a solid foundation in AI principles, while one elective course allows for specialization within their chosen field.

The creation of this minor reflects growing employer demand for AI skills in the workforce. Dr. Liu noted that the Central Valley faces unique challenges and opportunities related to artificial intelligence, including agricultural automation, rural healthcare access, and workforce development.

Employers are increasingly recognizing the value of employees with AI-related knowledge and skills. By offering a formal minor program, Fresno State aims to provide students with a competitive edge in the job market. As Dr. Liu explained, ‘when it’s printed on their transcript or diploma, it makes a difference’.

The university is also responding to student interest in AI education. The new minor was developed in response to both employer demand and student enthusiasm for learning about artificial intelligence.

Fresno State officials see this program as part of the university’s broader vision for its role in emerging technologies. Dr. Liu stated that ‘we consider ourselves an AI hub of the Central Valley’, aiming to provide education, research, and solutions related to AI.

In addition to the new undergraduate minor, Fresno State offers an AI certificate program for community members who are not pursuing a degree at the university. This reflects the university’s commitment to making its expertise in AI accessible to a wider audience.

Students interested in adding the minor should meet with academic advisers early in the fall semester to determine how the coursework can fit into their academic plans.