Minnesota State launches first robotics degree and AI master’s program

Minnesota State University has launched a bachelor’s degree program in robotics engineering and a master’s degree in artificial intelligence, both starting this fall with an expected enrollment of 25 students each. The robotics program represents the first and only robotics degree offered in Minnesota, while the AI master’s program is the first graduate-level AI program in the Minnesota State system, positioning the university to address growing industry demand for specialized tech professionals.

What you should know: These programs directly respond to workforce shortages in rapidly expanding technology sectors.

• The robotics engineering bachelor’s degree is a four-year program designed to meet demand from Minnesota high school students who previously had to leave the state for similar programs.
• The AI master’s degree is a two-year program that already has 13 applicants, targeting the needs of Fortune 500 companies headquartered in Minnesota.
• Both programs emphasize hands-on experience in planning, designing, building, evaluating and deploying solutions across industries including agriculture, construction, finance, healthcare and manufacturing.

Why this matters: Minnesota’s position as home to numerous Fortune 500 companies creates significant demand for AI and robotics expertise, but smaller and mid-sized companies are also seeking these capabilities to remain competitive.

• “Even smaller companies and mid-sized companies are looking at the potential of AI to create better opportunities for them,” said Rajeev Bukralia, associate professor and program director for the new AI program.
• The programs address a geographic gap, as students interested in robotics previously had to move out of state to pursue relevant degrees.

Key details: The curriculum combines theoretical foundations with practical applications while emphasizing ethical considerations.

• Students will tackle real-world challenges through industry-based research projects, preparing them to navigate complexities of robotics and AI deployments across various sectors.
• The programs explore ethical, legal, social and organizational implications of AI applications, promoting responsible robotics and AI practices.
• Faculty expect graduates to have strong job prospects, with most engineering majors historically finding employment after graduation.

What they’re saying: University leadership emphasizes the strategic importance of staying ahead of technological trends.

• “We try to offer programs that are niche and that support emerging needs from industry and governmental agencies,” said Mohammad Alam, dean of MSU’s College of Science, Engineering and Technology.
• “MSU is the second largest public university in the state of Minnesota and it is the flagship in the Minnesota State system, so it’s important for us to stay ahead of the curve,” Bukralia noted.
• Xuanhui Wu, chairman of the Electrical and Computer Engineering and Technology department, observed strong student interest: “We see a lot of high school kids with an interest in robotics. We have a strong need from students and we want to compete with neighboring states.”