University of Montana Launches Human-Centered Artificial Intelligence Certificate Program

The University of Montana has launched the state's first human-centered AI career certificate program, aimed at helping students think critically about artificial intelligence technologies and discuss ethical issues. The nine-credit program is offered online and synchronously.

The University of Montana has launched the state's first human-centered AI career certificate program to ensure students understand the potential of artificial intelligence and approach this developing technology consciously. Michael Cassens, associate professor of game design and interactive media, stated that the goal of the program is to keep humans not just in the process, but in the control mechanism.

The nine-credit certificate series includes interacting with generative AI tools like OpenAI's ChatGPT and Anthropic's Claude, and testing the limits and biases of chatbots. Students also examine ethical issues such as AI-generated imagery, data centers, and copyrights.

Courses offered within the program include Creatively Exploring AI and Calling Bullshit in the Age of AI. Lee Banville, director of the School of Journalism, emphasized that students must maintain critical thinking in the face of the misleading certainty provided by artificial intelligence.

Students who complete the three-course program, conducted entirely online and synchronously, are preparing for the future. The university plans to open this certificate to participants outside the Montana University System in the future.