Carnegie Mellon University (CMU-Q) in Qatar plans a future in which artificial intelligence is the basis for modern life, work and discovery. CMU-Q offers undergraduate programs in four key areas: biological sciences, business management, computer science and information systems. In each of these areas of research, CMU-Q ensures that graduates have the tools to shape the AI-driven world.
Artificial intelligence was invented with Carnegie Melon over half a century ago and continues to drive AI research, education and applications around the world.
Michael Trick has been a Carnegie Mellon faculty member for 35 years and has been the dean of CMU-Q since 2017. As CMU-Q’s longest serving dean, he witnessed a major change in the way universities must prepare students for careers.
“We are in the midst of an AI-driven renaissance and for many students, their future work is not yet present. To prepare them, we encourage creativity and exploration in other fields.
AI across fields
AI is an integral part of all four academic programs at CMU-Q. In computer science and information systems, students learn how AI works, how it is applied, and how it can be refined and improved. The areas of research and research include natural language processing, machine learning, robotics, networks and systems, cybersecurity, and more. Simply put, AI touches almost every aspect of computer science and information systems.
Biological science students will also learn the basics of how artificial intelligence works. Students can choose to take courses and conduct research in Computational Biology, an area in which AI may redefine how to diagnose and treat diseases. Precision medicine is possible for AI. This is the area where CMU-Q trains and teaches students as scientists who can contribute to new discoveries, diagnosis and treatment.
In business management, students learn how to analyze data and apply AI to make decisions. AI has had a huge impact in many business areas, and understanding how to apply these tools is important for new graduates. Earlier this year, CMU-Q launched a new AI+ Finance Certificate for students interested in how AI can apply to decisions in the corporate and investment finance world.
AI Research Initiative
AI is part of CMU-Q’s research activities in many areas. Some of the current AI-related projects intersect with sustainability, improving methods of cleaning and maintaining solar panels and caring for greenhouse plants. Over the years, we have also delved into language-related AI questions, including how AI can be used in Natural Language Processing (NLP) in Arabic, Turkish and English.
Teachers are also investigating ways to improve teaching and learning using generator AI. At the heart of these studies is the hypothesis that AI can enhance learning. Especially among those who are new to the subject. In many classes, faculty redesign their assignments and learning modules, so students learn how to use AI tools efficiently.
Responsible AI
As AI becomes more powerful, so are concerns about its shortcomings. Students are challenged to look at AI tools with a critical eye. How can we make AI outputs more transparent, fair, and useful? CMU-Q students receive a broad education in arts and science, along with key coursework. This approach to education cultivates awareness of the broader context of AI and how it can be used for positive social impacts.
The future is AI
With CMU-Q beginning in 2030, the world is in the midst of an AI-driven renaissance. CMU-Q’s 20th anniversary is an opportunity to pre-empt the ways to make a deeper impact. CMU is a global leader in computer science, and the Qatar campus continues to challenge the community to build new paths in AI research and implementation. CMU-Q alumni continue to lead alumni, present and future – in a world that is increasingly dependent on AI-powered technology.
