Maryland Universities Launch New AI Degree Programs As Demand For Workers Grows

COLLEGE PARK, Md. — Multiple Maryland universities are introducing new artificial intelligence (AI) programs in 2026 and beyond. Throughout the last three years, AI chatbots and algorithms have been integrated into numerous other technologies, such as customer support and search engines. Though AI continues to grow, many employers report a shortage of qualified AI workers that may slow development. Now, students are taking an interest in building AI and studying the long-term social implications of this new technology within society.

The University of Maryland (UMD) has announced plans to add two new AI-focused bachelor’s degrees to its catalog, offering students a chance to study the intersection of artificial intelligence and human behavior, along with how it’s built. AI is one of the biggest technologies of this decade, so these new offerings will allow students at UMD to study a growing field as it continues to develop within the real world.

UMD’s Bachelor of Arts in Human-Centered AI will guide students through basic concepts while also exploring the ethical and social aspects of this new technology. Classes for this degree will be available as early as fall 2026, helping students understand not only how AI affects society at large but also the ethical concerns within the AI industry.

Additionally, the Bachelor of Science in AI will be added to UMD’s catalog in 2027, giving students another choice should they wish to study artificial intelligence. This degree offers students the chance to learn how to create AI systems and algorithms from the ground up — a key skill that will only become more useful as AI is further integrated into daily life.

According to U.S. News & World Report rankings, UMD is among the top 10 public universities for AI, but the College Park institution isn’t the only Maryland university adding opportunities to study artificial intelligence in the classroom. University of Maryland, Baltimore County is adding the M.S. in AI program this fall to kick-start students into understanding AI development and integration.

Baltimore’s Morgan State University is also introducing a Bachelor of Science in Artificial Intelligence in fall 2026, placing AI in the classroom for numerous students. This updated program will revamp its Bachelor of Science in Cloud Computing to “place AI at its center” as the newest technology integrates deeper into society.

AI is available in nearly every facet of modern life, and its use is expected to continue growing, so these degrees offer opportunities to learn in real time alongside a developing industry that’s currently facing a significant shortage of qualified workers.

The AI Industry Is Facing A Massive Shortage

The recent popularity of artificial intelligence has become a topic of debate across the world over the last three years, but no matter how controversial it may be, students are beginning to take an interest so that they might pursue careers in one of America’s newest industries. From the White House to private corporations, nearly every major institution has an interest in furthering AI development in 2026.

“Within the state of Maryland and our region, there are a number of national labs and industries that are really focused on AI. This program is responding to workforce demands and really preparing students for the world of AI,” says UMBC Professor Dmitri Perkins in reference to the M.S. in AI program.

America is currently facing a major shortage of qualified professionals within the AI sector. ManpowerGroup’s recent Talent Shortage Survey explains that 72% of employers are struggling to find qualified individuals for this industry.

“ManpowerGroup’s 2026 Talent Shortage Survey of 39,000 employers across 41 countries reveals 72% report difficulty filling roles as demand for AI capabilities overtakes engineering and traditional IT skills.”

Industry analysts project the AI industry will continue to grow over the next decade, so more employees will be needed to fill the growing gaps in government, education and corporate institutions. The Trump administration has repeatedly expressed support for expanding AI use across the federal government, so more professionals are expected to be needed as those initiatives continue.

As universities add more AI degrees to their catalogs of educational programs, they hope to help address the workforce shortage by offering new educational opportunities for students. However, it may take years before the latest educational programs make a dent in the shortage.

To find out more about UMD’s newest programs, visit AI.UMD.edu.

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