Bachelor's Degree (BS) in Artificial Intelligence
OVERVIEW
Who is this program for?
A bachelor’s degree in artificial intelligence is ideal for students who are curious about how technology can solve complex problems and want to gain strong skills in computer science, data, and machine learning. It’s a great fit for those interested in building intelligent systems and driving innovation across a wide variety of industries.
Program Overview
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is transforming every industry—from healthcare and business to entertainment and robotics. Our bachelor’s program prepares you to be at the forefront of this change by combining a strong foundation in math, science, and computer science with hands-on experience in building intelligent systems.
You’ll start with core courses in calculus, physics, programming, writing, and engineering, then deepen your knowledge with advanced study in probability, statistics, and computing. From there, you’ll dive into AI-focused classes such as machine learning, natural language processing, generative AI, and cloud computing, while also tailoring your learning through electives in fields like business analytics, electrical engineering, and information communication technology.
Throughout the program, you’ll not only master the theories behind AI but also apply them in real-world contexts. The experience culminates in a two-semester senior project where you design and build a software system that integrates AI solutions. By the time you graduate, you’ll be prepared to innovate in one of the most in-demand and fast-evolving career fields of our time.
The First Year Engineering Experience
All first-year Engineering majors participate in the First Year Experience Program offered by the Stanley and Karen Pigman College of Engineering. The First-Year Engineering (FYE) Program is designed to orient students to the wide range of engineering disciplines and allows students to take engineering classes on day one. FYE classes present foundational knowledge from all our undergraduate majors and equip students with the confidence to pursue any degree program they are interested in.
Related Careers
With a bachelor’s degree in artificial intelligence, you may pursue roles such as:
Artificial Intelligence & Machine Learning
- Artificial Intelligence Engineer
- Machine Learning Engineer
- Applied AI Developer
- Natural Language Processing (NLP) Engineer
Data & Analytics
- Data Scientist
- Data Analyst
- Business Intelligence Analyst
- Predictive Analytics Specialist
Software & Systems Development
- Software Engineer (AI-focused)
- Cloud AI Engineer
- Robotics Software Engineer
- Embedded AI Developer
Product, Strategy & Applied Technology
- AI Product Manager
- Technical Product Analyst
- Automation Specialist
- Digital Transformation Analyst
Ethics, Policy & Responsible AI
- AI Ethics Analyst
- Responsible AI Specialist
- Technology Policy Analyst
Admission Requirements
- Official High School Transcript with Pre-College Curriculum: View transcript requirements on the Undergraduate Admission webpage.
- Test Scores (optional): ACT or SAT scores can be submitted but are not required for university admission.
Any "Program Specific Requirements" that display below are specific to the program and will be required for admission to the program.
Application Requirements
Completed applications include an official high school transcript, application fee ($50 domestic/$60 international) and optional official ACT/SAT score (the University of Kentucky is test-optional for admission and scholarships through the 2028-29 academic year).
Program Specific Requirements
Students apply and enter this program as "Pre-Artificial Intelligence" majors. Students are fully admitted to the program when they complete the pre-major requirements. View specifics in the Academic Catalog.
The minimum entry requirements for admission into the Pigman College of Engineering as a first-time freshmen student are both:
- ACT math score of 25 or higher, or the SAT equivalent of 590 or higher, and an
- Unweighted high school GPA of 3.0 or higher.
Students electing to apply without test scores can view alternative entry criteria in the Undergraduate Catalog under the Stanley and Karen Pigman College of Engineering entry.
Transfer Students
Engineering has established transfer pathways with nearly two dozen partner institutions enabling students to seamlessly transfer into any of our degree programs.
Application Deadlines
Freshman
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Early Action
- 12/01/2025 Apply early to be considered for Lewis Honors College, scholarships, or on-campus living.
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Regular Decision
- 02/15/2026
Transfer
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Fall Scholarship
- 06/15/2026 Apply early to be considered for scholarships.
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Fall
- 08/01/2026
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Spring
- 11/15/2025
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Summer
- 04/15/2026
FIND OUT EXACTLY
What You'll Learn
The BS in AI program prepares students with in-depth knowledge of foundations and skills for building, evaluating and using AI systems that can learn from data and interactions, reason about knowledge acquired, and make decisions and take actions to solve real world problems. After introductory courses in mathematics, statistics and programming, students will learn core AI concepts and techniques, including knowledge representation, logic systems and automated reasoning, neural networks, machine learning, intelligent agents, planning, natural language processing, computer vision, and AI ethics.
Degree requirements, course descriptions and academic policies for all programs are detailed in the University Catalog.
Explore Financial Aid Options
Undergraduate degree-seeking students have access to a variety of financial aid options, including scholarships, grants, work-study programs, and student loans, designed to make education more affordable.
Get Involved!
Students who get involved in activities outside of the classroom tend to do better academically and develop meaningful relationships with others at UK. Our network of student organizations and activities has something for everyone, from academic to professional to fun!
Join the Engineering Living Learning Program
The ELLP provides a welcoming community for engineering and computer science students to be supported academically and establish meaningful connections with other students.
This residential experience complements classroom expectations by integrating students into the engineering community with programs centered on professional development and academic support. In addition, the ELLP provides students with opportunities to interact with College of Engineering faculty, alumni, industry partners, academic advisors, engineering student organizations, and Peer Mentors. Peer Mentors are hand-selected to support new students during their transition to the University of Kentucky.
Get More Information
Complete the form to get the latest updates on this program, including special events and application deadlines.
Discover your Future
At the University of Kentucky, we provide personalized support, innovative resources, and countless opportunities to help you turn your aspirations into achievements.
