Information Technology BS with Applied Artificial Intelligence Concentration

Michigan Tech’s applied artificial intelligence concentration prepares Huskies to enter the job market as next-generation developers and superusers in this dynamic profession. At Tech, you’ll gain the capability and confidence to effectively apply AI tools and technologies across a wide range of practical contexts.

Our applied AI concentration bakes in the social impacts of artificial intelligence as part of your information technology education, providing you with perspectives on how to achieve the balance necessary to advance technology while benefiting humanity. The main focus of the applied AI program is on leveraging automation, enhancing data-driven decision-making, improving system management, and optimizing business operations.

What is Applied Artificial Intelligence?

Applied artificial intelligence is the practical application of AI to solving real-world problems using technologies such as machine learning, natural language processing, robotics, and computer vision.

What Will I Learn?

Most universities that offer a program in artificial intelligence are focused on the theoretical aspects of the field. Michigan Tech is different. We offer a unique opportunity for you to study and experience the applied, real-world application of AI.

Analyze a complex computing problem and apply principles of computing and other relevant disciplines to identify solutions.
Design, implement, and evaluate a computing-based solution to meet a given set of computing requirements in the context of the program’s discipline.
Communicate effectively across multiple career-focused environments.
Recognize your professional responsibilities and make informed judgments in computing practice based on legal and ethical principles.
Lead and collaborate within cross-functional technical teams to design, deploy, and manage AI-driven IT solutions.
Engineer, integrate, and sustain secure computing systems using industry-standard frameworks to deliver optimized user solutions.

Tomorrow Needs Specialists in Applied Artificial Intelligence

The artificial intelligence field is growing exponentially. Employers are seeking talent across the expanding spectrum of AI competencies. Theoretical AI knowledge is helpful, but there’s also a growing need for professionals who can effectively apply AI tools and technologies across a wide range of practical needs. Tomorrow needs professionals in applied artificial intelligence.

An Expanding Job Market With Great Salaries

Applied AI specialists have a mean entry-level salary of $117,447 (Payscale) with a mean annual wage of $138,581 (Payscale) and the top 10 percent making $229,000 (Payscale). Nationally, employment of data scientists is projected to have 34% growth from 2024 to 2034, much faster than the average for all occupations, according to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics.

See additional computing salary information.

Figures from payscale.com, accessed April 2025.

Figures from US Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), dated May 2024.

Be Career Ready

At Michigan Tech, you’ll learn, design, and develop AI systems to apply to a rapidly growing variety of needs across multiple industries—and future-proof your career. As artificial intelligence is affecting careers in computing, Tech’s program prepares you to be an essential part of the transformation, now and tomorrow.

Explore Career Opportunities for Applied Artificial Intelligence

Artificial intelligence is expanding into most industries. The US Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook projects the job outlook for data scientists as growing 34 percent between 2024 and 2034, much faster than average.

Career Opportunities

Business and financial operations
Computing and cybersecurity
Engineering and manufacturing
Healthcare
Information technology
Legal
Media
Science and technology

Ready to take the next step?

Learn more about information technology with a concentration in artificial intelligence at Michigan's flagship technological university.

The Department of Applied Computing

In Michigan Tech’s Department of Applied Computing, students learn by doing, building skills and knowledge in state-of-the-art labs, like our mechatronics playground. They work with real clients to deliver industry-standard deliverables, including penetration testing reports that rate cybersecurity vulnerability. Our College of Computing Learning Center, regular access to faculty, and strong commitment to a community where everyone feels welcome give our Huskies the resources they need to succeed. Take your place at the forefront of the in-demand, next-generation, life-changing disciplines that create fulfilling careers and answer the call for what tomorrow needs.

In the Tech's applied computing department, you can:

Lead the regional surge in advanced manufacturing through our mechatronics program.
Compete in national hackathons, RedTeam challenges, and robotics competitions.
Access our vast virtual cluster to apply IT coursework in real-time scenarios wherever you are.
Work with faculty who get to know you and care about your success.
Expand your options with a sought-after advanced degree in health informatics.

Tomorrow won’t wait. Neither will we.

Computing is for everyone, everywhere. Artificial intelligence, robotics, data science, and other forms of digital connectivity are ingrained in nearly every aspect of life. Cybersecurity has never been more important. These transformational technologies require intrepid problem-solvers, bold leaders, and fearless visionaries. You can be one of them.

Founded in 2019, Michigan Tech's College of Computing is one of the first colleges in the nation and one of the few institutions of its kind to focus solely on computing. Digital transformation has morphed every discipline into a computing discipline, reinventing industries like manufacturing, criminal justice, marketing, and healthcare. At Tech, we are making sure employers have the computing talent they need to thrive—and that our students are equipped for fulfilling careers now and for all the tomorrows to come.

The world needs Computing[MTU]. The world needs you.

Supercharge your future.

Study, do research, and build a future-forward career at a flagship R1 public research university powered by STEM. Get the theoretical knowledge and practical experience you need to succeed in a high-tech world.

Our students work alongside faculty on meaningful research, like helping to detect Alzheimer’s disease earlier and making machine learning more user-friendly. They connect at the intersection of engineering and computing in our mechatronics playground. They teach middle schoolers coding and cybersecurity basics, assist older generations with digital literacy essentials, and help each other persist through academic and life challenges through SAM, our unique peer mentoring program. Computing Huskies also partner with national entities like the US Defense Counterintelligence and Security Agency as well as local businesses to analyze security and safeguard sensitive data. And, from robotics to the MTU RedTeam, Huskies train, run, and win national competitions.

Find your jam at Tech—whether it's competing in Esports, joining an Enterprise team, or working with a group of Huskies to build a robot in three days. Here, you’ll find opportunities to connect with what clicks. And when it’s time to blow off steam, the Keweenaw Peninsula’s trails, forests, and Lake Superior beaches await, along with Michigan Tech’s Mont Ripley Ski Hill.

When it comes to preparing for life after graduation, our Career Fair offers more than a one-day event—it’s a series of workshops and meetups, leading to co-ops, internships, and full-time, well-paying positions. If you want to be ready for what tomorrow needs, your future starts now, in the Michigan Tech College of Computing.

College of Computing Undergraduate Majors

Not sure which major is the right fit? Explore Michigan Tech majors and minors.
Or, start with our General Computing program and give yourself time to decide.

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