University of Alabama approves new degrees in biomedical engineering and artificial intelligence

The University of Alabama System Board of Trustees convened on June 6, 2025, to discuss several significant academic initiatives and administrative actions aimed at enhancing educational offerings and research capabilities across its campuses.

A key highlight of the meeting was the approval of a new Master of Science degree in Biomedical Engineering. This program, designed to prepare students for medical school and careers in the biomedical and biotechnology industries, received initial backing from the board earlier this year. The Alabama Commission on Higher Education is expected to finalize its approval next week, marking a significant step forward for the university's academic portfolio.

In addition, the board reviewed a proposal for a Master of Science degree in Artificial Intelligence. This program aims to equip students with the skills necessary for careers in AI development and data science, building on existing faculty expertise in the Department of Computer Science. The trustees expressed enthusiasm for this initiative, which aligns with growing industry demands for skilled professionals in AI and machine learning.

The meeting also addressed the renewal of the University of Alabama's participation in the Child and Adult Care Food Program. This federal initiative provides essential meal services for children in childcare centers, and the board's approval is necessary for continued participation.

Another significant discussion involved the proposed closure of the Alabama Cyber Institute, which is part of a broader plan to establish a High Performance Computing and Data Center. This center is expected to support interdisciplinary research and workforce development in computational science. The university assured that the closure would not negatively impact students or existing programs, as efforts will be made to integrate essential components into the new proposal.

The board also approved several distinguished faculty appointments, including Dr. Philip Ernst and Dr. David Dixon as Shelby Distinguished Professors. Their contributions to statistics and computational chemistry, respectively, have garnered national recognition and will enhance the university's research profile.

Overall, the decisions made during this meeting reflect the University of Alabama System's commitment to advancing academic excellence and addressing the evolving needs of students and the workforce. As these programs and initiatives move forward, they are expected to significantly impact the university community and beyond.