Professor Lucas Wall, founder of almma.AI and author of Your Bright Future with AI, recently conducted market research to study applied AI offerings among Catholic universities. A summary of his report is below.
Catholic universities have a unique opportunity to lead in the rapidly growing field of applied AI education, particularly at the intersection of technology, business, and ethics. This analysis, grounded in a study of 25 Catholic institutions and broader market trends, highlights key opportunities for The Catholic University of America to stand out in this evolving landscape.
The Current AI Education Landscape
Catholic institutions offering business education are segmented into three tiers:
- Premium Tier: Universities characterized by high academic standards and elite programs.
- Mid-Tier: Universities balancing strong academics with greater accessibility.
- Emerging Tier: Universities serving a broader student base with opportunities for growth.
While leaders in the premium tier have pioneered programs such as Applied Intelligence, gaps remain—especially in undergraduate AI education and the integration of Catholic ethical principles.
Student Demand for AI Education
Recent data from the Graduate Management Admission Council (GMAC) reveals a 38% year-over-year increase in demand for AI-focused business programs. Students view AI competency as essential to career preparation, especially in sectors like consulting, technology, and finance. This rising demand underscores a generational shift in educational priorities, where AI literacy is seen as fundamental to business education.
Strategic Opportunities for Catholic University
Catholic University’s location in Washington, D.C. provides a strategic advantage for partnerships with policymakers, tech leaders, and federal agencies. To capitalize on this advantage, the university is:
- Developing Distinctive AI Programs: Introducing undergraduate and executive education programs combining technical AI training with Catholic ethical frameworks.
- Leveraging Industry Partnerships: Offering real-world applications through internships and collaborations with AI-driven companies.
- Aligning Curriculum with Student Demand: Creating AI-integrated business programs that prepare students for future-proof careers.
- Enhancing Faculty Expertise: Investing in faculty development to deliver cutting-edge AI education.
- Highlighting Competitive Advantages: Marketing these innovations to students, emphasizing the alignment of Catholic social teaching with technological advancement.
The Path Forward
The Catholic University of America has the potential to redefine its position in the competitive Catholic higher education landscape. By prioritizing applied AI education and ethical leadership, the university can become a trailblazer in responsible AI training, preparing students for impactful careers while staying true to its mission.
This is not merely an opportunity—it is an imperative to meet the evolving expectations of today’s students and the demands of a changing world.