UC San Diego Launches AI Major with 125-Student Cohort as State Expands AI Degrees

Context In 2020 Stanford became the first California college to offer a bachelor's degree in artificial intelligence. UC San Diego launched its program last fall, and the University of Southern California plans to start its own AI major this fall. The California State University system has also approved new AI degrees, with San Diego State set to begin enrollment soon, and other CSU campuses exploring similar tracks.

Key Facts After applications opened in August, roughly 125 students enrolled in UC San Diego's inaugural AI class, filling most of the available seats. Steven Swanson, chair of the Computer Science Department, said the major prepares future programmers and software engineers to construct and enhance AI systems, focusing on both theory and hands‑on projects. Freshman Christine Antonie, who completed an online AI prep course in high school, said she chose the major because she sees AI used across many fields, from healthcare to entertainment.

What It Means The new major gives students a focused path into AI careers, but it also creates tension with existing computer science majors who question its rigor and worry about overlapping coursework. Current policy allows only students admitted as AI majors to take the core courses, though computer science students can attend lectures if space permits, and labs remain restricted to declared AI majors. University officials say the policy may be reviewed in the fall, potentially opening transfers between majors and adjusting enrollment caps to balance demand.

What to watch next Monitor USC's fall launch of its AI bachelor's, the rollout of CSU AI programs across the state, and any changes to UC San Diego's transfer policy that could affect enrollment flows. Additionally, watch for industry partnerships and internship opportunities that could shape the practical training of the first AI graduating class.