From finance and technology to healthcare and retail, organizations are navigating a new era shaped by artificial intelligence. As AI continues to influence how businesses operate and make decisions, professionals across industries are seeking the knowledge and tools to help their organizations adapt.
This fall, more than 200 professionals will begin Boston University’s new online Master of Science in AI in Business, joining the University’s first cohort of students in a program designed for business professionals who want to understand and guide AI adoption within their organizations — without requiring a traditional computer science background.
A Dynamic First Cohort
The inaugural cohort includes 208 students, far surpassing the program’s original enrollment target. The class represents an expansive group of professionals from industries including technology, healthcare, finance, consulting, retail, manufacturing, and government, reflecting the growing demand for business leaders who can connect AI with real-world business challenges.
Students joining the first cohort come from organizations including Amazon, Google, IBM, JPMorgan Chase, Verizon, Oracle, McKinsey & Company, The Home Depot, and Harvard Business School, among others. Their professional backgrounds range from enterprise marketing and cybersecurity to financial analysis, consulting, retail operations and healthcare.
Together, they represent a shift in how organizations are approaching artificial intelligence. AI is no longer limited to technical teams building new systems — business leaders across industries are increasingly responsible for understanding how the technology can be implemented, managed and used strategically.
Built for Business Leaders
The online MS in AI in Business was created for professionals who want to help organizations navigate AI transformation. The curriculum focuses on areas such as AI transformation, organizational change, governance and integrating AI into business operations.
The program is part of Boston University’s expanded portfolio of online graduate programs focused on artificial intelligence. Rather than offering a single pathway, BU developed multiple programs designed to support professionals interested in different areas of AI — from technical specialists developing advanced AI expertise to business leaders guiding implementation across organizations.
Early enrollment patterns show that these audiences have distinct goals and professional backgrounds. The AI in Business cohort, in particular, reflects the growing need for professionals who can bridge the gap between AI and strategy.
Reaching Working Professionals Wherever They Are
The program’s online format also allows BU to reach professionals who may not otherwise be able to pursue graduate education at Boston University. Many students in the inaugural cohort are experienced professionals balancing careers and graduate study while living across different regions of the country.
We have been pleased to see the response to the first cohort of the AI in Business program from experienced business leaders. It has confirmed our original hypothesis that AI has become a core business capability, not just a technical one. This group is preparing to lead AI adoption in their organizations, and we’re delighted to provide an online program that allows them to join BU while leading their companies through this period of change.
Chris Gyngell – AVP, Enrollment Management & Student Success, BU Virtual
As the inaugural class begins its studies, students will bring experiences and perspectives from different industries into the virtual classroom. What connects them is a shared goal: preparing themselves and their organizations for a future increasingly shaped by artificial intelligence.
Expanding Access to Graduate Education
For Boston University, the launch of the online MS in AI in Business represents a significant step in expanding access to graduate education that prepares professionals to lead through AI transformations and technological change.
Learn more about the MS in AI in Business at Boston University →