BGSU accepting applications for innovative AI + X bachelor’s degree program, the first-of-its-kind in the nation

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BOWLING GREEN, Ohio - As the first university in the nation to launch a customizable AI+X bachelor's degree, Bowling Green State University is now accepting applications for its pioneering program following recent approval from the Ohio Department of Higher Education.

The uniquely designed undergraduate program combines a core education in AI with a secondary discipline, allowing students to design field-specific solutions to support AI-driven tools and applications. The "X" represents a customizable add-on in six fields, including computer science, mathematics, physics, history, journalism or public relations, that allows students to apply AI to their field of choice.

The degree's unique structure in addition to the option to choose among six fields of study are among its distinguishing features.

"Bowling Green has never been afraid to take the action and go first - in fact, we prefer it," said BGSU President Rodney K. Rogers. "This program, AI+X, is another example of how Bowling Green punches above its weight, time and again, driving innovation not only for our state, but the nation. As a university, we are the right size to move quickly - big enough with leading faculty and learning facilities, but small enough that we can be agile to meet the shifting needs of both our students and society with the right, in-demand academic programs at the right time."

Why choose a career in AI?
BGSU is introducing this degree, approved for creation at May's Board of Trustees meeting, at a pivotal time when AI is being integrated across industries, driving job demand.

According to a 2025 PwC AI Jobs Barometer report, 100% of industries are increasing AI usage, with wages rising twice as quickly in those industries most exposed to AI compared to those least exposed. The report also found that sectors integrating AI show four times greater productivity growth.

The rapid development of AI has created a growing demand for professionals who can apply AI principles and technology to address complex, interdisciplinary challenges.

"AI affects all sectors and industries, so it's important for students with expertise in AI to also have a contextual field in which to apply and problem solve with the technology," said Dr. Ellen Schendel, dean of the BGSU College of Arts and Sciences. "The reality is that technical knowledge alone isn't enough; we need the critical thinking, creative problem solving and content knowledge of a variety of fields to be ready for the challenges and opportunities of AI in our workplaces and communities."

What careers are available in AI?
The new program is housed in the BGSU Department of Computer Science, with renowned faculty members leading AI coursework on topics such as Python programming, AI ethics and society, machine learning and visualization with AI.

Graduates will be qualified for a variety of careers, including roles such as AI developers, data scientists and machine learning engineers, as well as roles within sectors that blend AI with specific domains, including scientific research, social policy, creative industries and business analytics. Dr. JK "Jake" Lee, chair of the BGSU Computer Science Department, explained that AI is no longer exclusive to software engineers. Journalists use it to detect misinformation, historians to analyze ancient texts and physicists to model complex systems or analyze astronomical data.

As workforce demands and disciplinary expertise evolve, new content domains can be added to the degree, part of its intentional design to accommodate a fast-changing technology.

"This is not AI in isolation," Lee said. "The ability to integrate AI with domain-specific knowledge is essential. From data visualization and machine learning to AI ethics, students will gain both the technical depth and cross-disciplinary perspective needed to lead in a rapidly evolving technological landscape."

The launch of the AI+X program builds on the University's legacy of innovation. More than five decades ago, BGSU became Ohio's first public university with an undergraduate computer science program, foreseeing its value long before it became the in-demand field it is today.

BGSU also remains one of the few universities in the country to offer a full range of data science programs, from a bachelor's degree to a Ph.D.

The announcement of the new AI + X degree comes on the heels of Meta's $800 million investment to create the Bowling Green Data Center, further demonstrating the need for highly skilled technology professionals to meet regional workforce demands.

For more information about the AI + X degree and to apply, visit BGSU.edu/apply.