Wednesday, August 19, 2026
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UNT students will be able to build their skills with new degrees in artificial intelligence, project management and data science.

DENTON (UNT), Texas — As students return to the University of North Texas this fall, they’ll have three new degree options to choose from, including a bachelor’s degree focused on artificial intelligence, a master’s degree in project management and a doctoral program in data science.

The new programs expand UNT’s offerings in fields that are increasingly important across industries, giving students opportunities to develop specialized skills and apply what they learn beyond the classroom.

Bachelor’s degree in artificial intelligence

As employers seek candidates with artificial intelligence experience and skills, UNT is launching a new bachelor’s degree in artificial intelligence.

The program is designed to prepare students for workforce needs while giving them a foundation in software engineering and opportunities to explore how AI can be applied across disciplines — from mathematics and natural sciences to sociology and criminal justice. Students also will learn how to use AI tools ethically and responsibly, an increasingly important consideration as the technology becomes more widely used in the workplace.

The hybrid program also gives students flexibility to tailor their education to their interests. Students from other majors will be able to take introductory AI courses, giving them an opportunity to develop foundational knowledge of the technology without pursuing the full degree. The interdisciplinary approach allows students with advanced AI expertise to work alongside students from other fields who may eventually need to apply those skills in their own professions.

“We're trying to build better tools to help people solve problems,” said David Keathly, clinical professor and associate chair for undergraduate studies in the College of Engineering. “That's why we want students to have the ability to take courses in other areas they’re interested in — not necessarily enough to earn a biology degree, for example, but enough to support someone who might work at a pharmaceutical company and wants to use AI tools in their work.”

Master’s degree in project management

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Student will engage with industry partners while pursuing the new project management master's degree.

UNT’s G. Brint Ryan College of Business is welcoming its first students to a new Master of Science in Project Management, giving graduate students an opportunity to develop advanced project management expertise alongside skills in leadership, communication, collaboration, critical thinking and strategic decision-making.

Through engagement with industry partners, students will gain practical experience while building a professional network and portfolio that can help distinguish them in today’s competitive job market. The program combines academic coursework with opportunities for students to apply what they learn to real-world projects and challenges.

Project management expertise is increasingly valuable across industries as organizations continue to navigate digital transformation and other changes in the modern workplace. Graduates will be prepared to lead complex projects, drive successful outcomes and advance into leadership roles in a variety of industries.

“The launch of our Master of Science in Project Management is an exciting step forward for the Ryan College of Business and, most importantly, for our students,” said Dean Marilyn Wiley. “We look forward to preparing the next generation of project leaders for the evolving workforce and the many opportunities ahead.”

Ph.D. in data science

UNT is also offering a new Ph.D. in data science designed to help students develop advanced research and technical skills for addressing complex questions involving data.

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The new degrees help students prepare for increasingly important fields across industries.

“The future belongs to leaders who can transform data into meaningful knowledge and innovation,” said Kinshuk, dean of the College of Information. “Our doctoral program in data science prepares students to push the boundaries of research, advance artificial intelligence and analytics and solve complex challenges across industry, government and academia.”  

The program combines rigorous coursework with original research, interdisciplinary collaboration, industry engagement and a dissertation. Students will learn how to identify important research questions, develop and evaluate innovative solutions and communicate their findings in ways that inform decisions and address practical needs.

Students will build expertise in areas including machine learning, statistical modeling, emerging technologies, data management and analytics, research methods, data communication and ethical and responsible data science.

The degree prepares graduates for research and leadership careers in academia, industry, government, healthcare and other fields that rely heavily on data. Career paths may include research scientist, data scientist, data science manager, university faculty member and other research-focused positions.

Together, the new programs reflect UNT’s continued investment in academic programs that connect students’ interests with emerging opportunities across a range of industries and disciplines.