Lawrence Technological University is expanding its push into artificial intelligence with a master’s program designed to move students beyond tools and into real-world innovation.
“Lawrence Technological University doesn’t teach students just the AI tools. We go beyond that,” said Dr. George Pappas, an associate professor at LTU. “Our goal and our mission is to create the next level of innovators.”
The Master of Science in Artificial Intelligence program emphasizes deep learning, data mining and intelligent systems while pairing coursework with hands-on, industry-sponsored projects. Pappas said the design reflects how ubiquitous AI has become across sectors from automotive and health care to finance and manufacturing.
“Artificial intelligence is around us with everything that we use nowadays,” he said during an appearance on Live in the D. “The university has the mission to actually develop the next generation with the necessary tools to go beyond just learning how to use the tools, but to be innovators.”
A signature element of the program is its pipeline to employers. Rather than sending students out to find partners, LTU builds projects with companies that approach the university.
“Industry comes to LTU. They reach out to us, the faculty, and we connect the students to the individual industry by industry-sponsored projects,” Pappas said. “It gives the students the opportunity to not only apply what they learn in the classroom but also be innovative and give those extra ideas and extra thoughts.”
LTU offers two pathways to the degree. The first is a coursework option for students seeking immediate, practice-oriented skills and career advancement. The second is a thesis option for those pursuing deeper research.
“The course-based option is for students that like to learn those AI tools, be innovative, but they can advance their careers. Again, you have the other option that’s the thesis option, which dives more into research. Both options are great and can help them advance their futures.”
Pappas said the industry projects span multiple sectors, noting recent collaborations in automotive and health care, among others. He added that faculty involvement helps students translate advanced concepts into deployable solutions.
To watch the segment, click on the video above. Additional information about LTU’s AI program is available at ltu.edu.