Santa Clara University School of Engineering Introduces Minor in Responsible AI

SANTA CLARA, Calif., January 31, 2025 — Recognizing the critical need for ethically sound and socially responsible artificial intelligence (AI) technologies, Santa Clara University’s School of Engineering has launched an undergraduate minor in Responsible AI, collaborating with the College of Arts and Sciences and Leavey School of Business. The program aims to equip students with both technical proficiency and a deep understanding of the ethical implications of AI, fostering a new generation of AI professionals dedicated to developing technology for the greater good.

“The true measure of progress in AI is not just in its capabilities, but in its ethical use to benefit humanity,” said Dr. Yi Fang, associate professor of Computer Science and Engineering and Director of the School’s Responsible AI program. “This minor is designed to be accessible to students across diverse disciplines, including engineering, business, arts, and sciences, enabling them to develop a holistic understanding of AI and its societal impact.”

The responsible AI minor offers a unique interdisciplinary approach, combining courses from over 10 departments. This diversity ensures that students from various academic backgrounds can participate and benefit from the program. 

Key objectives of the program include:

• Education and training: Delivering top-tier education in AI technology that equips students with a comprehensive understanding of both the technical and ethical dimensions of artificial intelligence
• Interdisciplinary learning: Offering a curriculum that spans multiple disciplines, ensuring a holistic understanding of AI and its impact on society
• Ethical leadership: Cultivating leaders equipped to handle the ethical challenges associated with AI development and deployment

The responsible AI minor aligns with Impact 2030, Santa Clara University’s Strategic Plan. This initiative emphasizes the importance of ethical leadership and the responsible use of emerging technologies, reinforcing the University's commitment to social justice and the common good.

The new program, which began in the fall of 2024 under the leadership of Dean Elaine Scott, is open to all SCU undergraduate students. Continuous development of elective options will keep the curriculum aligned with the latest advancements in AI technology and ethics. In Winter 2025, three new AI courses (from Arts, Business, and Engineering, respectively) have been added to the electives.

For more information about the School of Engineering’s minor in responsible artificial intelligence, visit https://www.scu.edu/engineering/responsible-ai/education/

About Santa Clara University
Santa Clara University is a private Jesuit, Catholic University in the epicenter of Silicon Valley, infusing ethics and social consciousness into a rigorous cross-disciplinary education for its nearly 9,000 undergraduate and graduate students.