Northeastern faculty member David Bau (third from right) looks at a laptop screen with three researchers huddled around him

Khoury College:
a leader in AI innovation and education

In the age of AI, why pursue a CS degree?

There has never been a better time to study computer science. Students entering the field today will be on the ground floor of the next wave of AI-driven technology. The world needs versatile, capable computer scientists — perhaps now more than ever before.

My advice to students is to visualize AI as a massive wave; it’s much better to ride that wave than to feel it crashing down on you. By getting involved in creating the next generation of AI capabilities, you can chart your own career and the future of the field at the same time

Khoury Dean Beth Mynatt

Research highlights

The 3 Cs: Khoury College’s strategic approach to integrating AI in the curriculum

AI can’t replace rigorous computer science fundamentals, but it’s a valuable tool as a student’s education unfolds. We call this the journey through the 3 Cs — from crutch to coach to colleague. 

Crutch: using AI as more than a convenient shortcut 

AI is an excellent tool for answering questions. At Khoury College, we teach students how to use this powerful tool to enhance learning — guiding them on when to use it and when to master foundational skills on their own. 

Coach: harnessing AI capabilities to become a better developer

Students harness AI as a powerful coach to try new ideas, hone performance, and produce exceptional work, guided by faculty collaboration.

Colleague: collaborating with AI to streamline and enhance your work 

As skills grow, students work with AI as a collaborator. Through hybrid human–AI development teams in projects and co-ops, students prepare for success in tomorrow’s tech industry.

How does a Khoury education prepare students for the workforce?

Students and faculty discuss how AI has transformed their workflow and learning — and how Khoury College’s AI-forward philosophy prepares students for high-impact futures: “Our students are here because they want to find a great job. They want to be good professionals at the end.”

Khoury programs with an AI focus

BS in Data Science/AI

This program integrates cutting-edge AI and machine learning technologies with an emphasis in data science and data ethics in different domains. As a combined major, students can add a complimentary focus in a wide range of areas including business, sciences, economics, and more.

BS or BA in Computer Science, AI concentration

Choose from two options when pursuing your CS degree. A Bachelor of Science emphasizes technical knowledge. A Bachelor of Arts provides the same strong academic foundation and allows for more flexibility in electives. Both provide a focus on AI.

Align MS in Artificial Intelligence

The Align MS in AI was designed to provide access to a future-proof career, even without a background in CS or AI. Graduates move into AI roles like machine learning engineer, natural language processing engineer, computer vision engineer, AI software developer, AI product manager, data scientist, and AI consultant.

MS in Artificial Intelligence

The interdisciplinary master’s in AI program (Khoury College and the College of Engineering) pairs technical training with ethics and impact. Work alongside top faculty and build solutions that redefine industries such as health, finance, education, and more.

AI research at Khoury College

From the mathematical foundations of trustworthy machine learning to real-world applications that improve lives, Khoury researchers are not merely participating in the AI revolution — they’re steering it toward a future where AI is powerful, comprehensible, and fundamentally aligned with human values. Learn more about AI research at Khoury College.

The best AI doesn’t just recognize patterns. It recognizes people, their needs and their priorities, and for many older people, their desire to age at home. Learn about this important Khoury research.

AI-focused labs

Explore cutting-edge AI research across our numerous specialized research labs — from teaching robots to grasp objects and building virtual health coaches to combating misinformation and developing equitable language technologies.

A device shaped like a human head is lit up and connected to a laptop

AI and the future of tech talent: Industry panelists weigh in

Khoury College facilitated a discussion panel with Nick Peddy, CTO of Clear, and Peggy Tsai, AI product manager at JPMorgan Chase, who discussed AI’s history, impact, and more.

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