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UA System committee approves multiple new degree programs across UA, UAB and UAH
Summary
The Academic Affairs & Student Affairs Committee approved final program proposals including a Master of Science in Artificial Intelligence at UA, a UAB Bachelor of Science in Data Science, and new undergraduate programs at UAH, all slated for implementation in 2026.
The Academic Affairs & Student Affairs Committee on Sept. 12 approved final program proposals from the University of Alabama, UAB and UAH that the campuses plan to implement in 2026.
Dr. Tunjanita Johnson, senior vice chancellor for academic and student affairs, said the University of Alabama requested final approval for a Master of Science in Artificial Intelligence (Department of Computer Science, College of Engineering) and a Master of Science in Translational Science and Medicine (College of Community Health Sciences), both proposed for fall 2026. “This program will provide both training in AI and computer science, allowing students to meet the increasing job demand for AI professionals,” Johnson said about the AI degree.
UAB presented several final approvals: a Master of Science in Applied Nutrition (online with in‑person internship, implementation spring 2026); a Master of Science in Higher Education Intercollegiate Athletics Administration (spring 2026); a Master of Science in Exercise Physiology (fall 2026); and a Bachelor of Science in Medical Laboratory Science (spring 2026). Dr. Janet Woodruff Borden, UAB provost and senior vice president for academic affairs, introduced a new Bachelor of Science in Data Science to be housed in the College of Arts and Sciences; she said the undergraduate proposal balances mathematics and computer science and is intended to prepare graduates for data‑driven industries.
UAH requested final approval of a Bachelor of Science in Cyber Operations Technology (implementation fall 2026) and a Bachelor of Science in Game Design (fall 2026). Dr. Johnson noted that pending board approval these items would be reviewed by the Alabama Commission on Higher Education later that morning for its recommendation.
Committee members moved, seconded and voted to approve the individual action items covering these program proposals. The committee record shows no recorded roll call for each program during the meeting; chairs announced that the items were approved. Campuses will proceed with implementation steps, including faculty hires, curricular development and any required notifications to ACHE.
