University of the Cumberlands Launches New AI Degree Programs, Including Kentucky’s First Online Bachelor’s in Artificial Intelligence

University of the Cumberlands has introduced an online Bachelor of Science in Artificial Intelligence, the first program of its kind in the state of Kentucky. Also new to the university’s academic offerings is a Ph.D. in Artificial Intelligence, designed to prepare technology leaders for the rapidly evolving challenges of artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and emerging technologies. 

Cumberlands is among a limited number of institutions in the United States offering a clear, end-to-end educational pathway in artificial intelligence. Since launching its master’s degree in artificial intelligence in 2022, the university has continued to expand its AI curriculum. With the addition of new undergraduate and doctoral programs, University of the Cumberlands now enables students to progress seamlessly from a bachelor’s degree to a master’s degree and ultimately to a Ph.D. in artificial intelligence, all within a single institution. 

As higher education institutions nationwide grapple with how to respond to AI’s growing influence, these new programs position University of the Cumberlands as a thought leader in ethical AI, innovation, and workforce readiness. 

“With Forbes reporting that 78% of organizations now use AI, it’s imperative that we equip our students with the knowledge and skills needed to meet, and grow with that demand,” shared Dr. Machica McClain, co-dean of the college of business, communications, and IT. 

Expanding Artificial Intelligence Education Pathways 

Cumberlands’ Bachelor of Science in Artificial Intelligence is designed to equip students with both foundational and advanced competencies in AI. Students explore cutting-edge topics such as machine learning, natural language processing, and the ethical and legal implications of artificial intelligence, while developing practical skills through hands-on projects, research, and collaborative learning. 

The undergraduate program consists of 42 credit hours in core courses and prepares graduates with the ethical, technical, and critical thinking skills needed for real-world problem solving in AI-driven careers. The program is now accepting students to begin coursework this summer. 

“By launching an undergraduate degree in AI, we’re giving students a chance to start successful careers in this field much earlier,” explained Dr. McClain. “They’ll graduate with practical skills and a strong foundation that positions them well for both the workforce and graduate study.” 

Learn more about the Bachelor of Science in Artificial Intelligence at University of the Cumberlands at: https://www.ucumberlands.edu/academics/undergraduate/artificial-intelligence 

A Doctoral Program Built for AI Leadership 

The launch of the undergraduate program is part of a broader investment in artificial intelligence education at University of the Cumberlands.  

The university’s 100% online Ph.D. in Artificial Intelligence is designed for experienced professionals seeking both theoretical depth and hands-on application. The doctoral program emphasizes real-world problem solving through end-to-end projects, complex research assignments, and applied technical exercises. 

Students engage in advanced coursework that reflects current and emerging industry needs, including: 

• Analytical Methods for Machine Learning 
• Ethics in Responsible Artificial Intelligence 
• Data Engineering for Artificial Intelligence 

Graduates will be prepared for leadership and specialist roles such as AI Research Scientist, Machine Learning Engineer, Chief AI Officer, Data Science Director, AI Ethics Consultant, and AI Policy Advisor. 

“Our PhD in Artificial Intelligence is built around today’s workforce needs,” said Dr. McClain. “It prepares graduates to lead, innovate, and apply AI in meaningful ways across industries already being transformed by this technology.” 

Students will complete 60 credit hours at an affordable tuition rate of $549 per credit hour ($749 for the hybrid executive program) reinforcing the university’s commitment to access and value at the doctoral level. 

Learn more about the Ph.D. in Artificial Intelligence at University of the Cumberlands at: https://www.ucumberlands.edu/academics/graduate/phd-artificial-intelligence 

Leaders in Access to Responsible AI Tools 

In addition to expanding academic programs, University of the Cumberlands has prioritized responsible access to AI tools that enhance teaching, learning, and research. 

All undergraduate and graduate students receive full access to premium AI platforms, including: 

• Gemini 
• Google NotebookLM 
• Microsoft Copilot 

Additionally, all undergraduate students have full access to ChatGPT Edu. 

These tools support research, synthesis, critical thinking, and idea development, while reinforcing ethical and academic standards for AI use. 

“UC has been a leader in bringing AI into higher education in a thoughtful way, introducing AI programs early and giving students access to AI tools while emphasizing responsible and ethical use in their academic work,” explained Dr. McClain. “One of the University’s core visions is to innovate to improve student learning outcomes and career preparedness, and I believe being a thought leader in AI is central to achieving that.” 

With the launch of its Ph.D. in Artificial Intelligence, University of the Cumberlands continues to expand its career-aligned program offerings designed to meet the evolving demands of today’s technology-driven workforce. By pairing rigorous academics with ethical, responsible access to AI tools, the university is preparing graduates to both lead and shape emerging fields.