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Become a Master of Artificial Intelligence
Southeastern's new AI and cybersecurity degree concentrations prepare students for high-paying, cutting-edge careers in tech.
By: Brock Sanders
Artificial intelligence has transitioned from a mysterious entity to a vital tool in daily applications. Southeastern has made it a priority to capitalize on this ever-expanding technological advancement, which is projected to create close to 78 million jobs globally over the next five years.
Southeastern is meeting industry standards by introducing two new degree concentrations designed to prepare students for successful careers in technology. Both the cybersecurity concentration in the Bachelor of Science in Information Technology and the applied artificial intelligence concentration in the Bachelor of Science in Computer Science offer Southeastern students hands-on experience in fields that are rapidly becoming staples of the job market.
The applied artificial intelligence concentration allows students in the Department of Computer Science to design, build, and deploy intelligent systems through coursework in machine learning, predictive modeling, generative AI, and data mining. A background in AI from Southeastern can open doors to a wide variety of industries and career paths.
“Artificial intelligence is rapidly reshaping the way we live, work, and solve complex problems across nearly every industry,” said Associate Professor Kazim Sekeroglu. “Through hands-on projects, advanced coursework, and exposure to industry-standard tools, students will graduate prepared to contribute to the next generation of AI innovations in fields ranging from healthcare and finance to robotics and national defense.”
The average salary for machine learning engineers in the United States is slightly above $160,000 annually, according to California Miramar University. Whether working as a compliance officer deciphering the ethics of AI or as a product manager utilizing AI as a strategic tool, a degree in artificial intelligence is the first step toward a highly customizable career.
Southeastern’s second new offering, the cybersecurity concentration within the Department of Information Technology, focuses on foundational computing skills while specializing in protecting critical digital infrastructure. Students will master algorithm design, data structures, software engineering, and preventive measures to combat hacking and cybercrime.
““Cybersecurity has become one of the most critical needs in today’s digital world. Graduates will leave Southeastern with the technical skills, ethical mindset, and practical experience necessary to meet the growing demand for cybersecurity professionals in both the public and private sectors.””
Cybersecurity professionals in the United States earn close to $125,000 a year on average, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, with entry-level positions starting around $70,000.
A career in this field can lead to roles like cloud security engineer or security architect, positions dedicated to securing cloud environments and protecting client data. Adding a minor in political science, an 18-hour requirement at Southeastern, can even propel a student into a corporate governance role, such as a chief information security officer.
The integration of these two cutting-edge programs into Southeastern’s curriculum is just one of the ways the university continues to compete with larger institutions while maintaining its signature, personal level of student support.
For more information on the Applied Artificial Intelligence concentration, please visit the Artificial Intelligence Majors and Minors page.
For more information on the Cybersecurity concentration, please visit the Cybersecurity Majors and Minors page.