South Dakota State University Launches Artificial Intelligence Engineering Program

South Dakota State University has received approval from the South Dakota Board of Regents to offer a new program in artificial intelligence engineering. The Jerome J. Lohr College of Engineering will start offering Bachelor of Science, Master of Science, and doctoral degrees in AI engineering starting fall 2026.

The program aims to equip students with the analytical, computational, hardware, and ethical foundations needed to design intelligent technologies that learn from data and support human decision-making. This comprehensive education will prepare graduates for technical and leadership roles in the modern AI workforce.

According to Provost Dennis Hedge, progression through these degrees aligns with student goals of learning and application at the undergraduate level, increased specialization at the master’s level, and discovery and innovation at the doctoral level. With a strong foundation in artificial intelligence and engineering design, graduates will be prepared to apply their knowledge to real-world challenges.

The program supports South Dakota’s growing workforce needs, particularly in areas such as precision agriculture, intelligent sensing, power systems, and advanced manufacturing. The state currently has 10,000 computer-related jobs, with roughly 7,800 positions directly connected to AI and cybersecurity.

Sanjeev Kumar, dean of the Lohr College, expressed gratitude for the Regents’ approval, stating that it reinforces the college’s commitment to train innovative problem-solvers and advance cutting-edge research. As AI continues to reshape the world, graduates will be at the forefront of technological innovation and responsible leadership.

The new program is aligned with SDSU’s land-grant mission and supports its strategic plan, Pathway to Premier 2030, as well as its Research 1 ambitions. By providing accessible, high-quality education in a rapidly advancing field, the program prepares students to meet South Dakota’s growing workforce demand.

Additionally, the program builds on SDSU’s strengths in AI research and its nationally recognized leadership in real-world, high-impact domains. Through integrated education, research, and engagement, the program advances SDSU’s mission to foster innovation, drive economic development, and improve the quality of life for South Dakotans.

The growing demand for machine learning jobs is a pressing issue nationwide, with projections showing roughly 129,000 openings per year for software developers, analysts, and testers. Software developers alone are projected to grow 16% nationwide and 27% in South Dakota, highlighting the need for interdisciplinary engineering preparation rather than narrow software-only training.

The program will support students in developing skills that integrate AI into operational systems, addressing a significant gap in the workforce. By investing in this forward-looking education, SDSU is preparing the next generation of engineers who not only understand AI technologies but are ready to lead innovation in an increasingly AI-driven world.