TOLEDO, Ohio – The University of Toledo is expanding its academic portfolio with a brand‑new master’s degree in data science and artificial intelligence that will launch in the spring of 2027. The program will be delivered entirely online, giving students the flexibility to study full‑time or part‑time while balancing work and family commitments.
Program designed for today’s job market
Bill Kulies, director of UToledo’s School of Interdisciplinary Data Science, explained that the curriculum targets both recent graduates and seasoned professionals who want to sharpen their analytical skills. “It is open to recent grads or professionals who want to increase their skills in data science or AI,” Kulies said.
Kulies highlighted labor‑market data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics that projects a 34 % national increase in data‑science‑related jobs over the next ten years, with a 28 % rise expected in the northwest Ohio region. Those positions typically command salaries exceeding $100,000, underscoring the economic upside for graduates.
Why up‑skill now?
“AI is definitely going to automate some routine data‑science‑related tasks, so it becomes much more important to up‑skill workers so that they know how to make good judgments about how to use AI and how to use it responsibly and ethically,” Kulies said. The program will therefore emphasize not only technical proficiency but also ethical decision‑making, preparing students to apply AI tools responsibly across industries.
According to the university, graduates will be equipped for roles such as data scientist, machine learning engineer, AI engineer, and data analyst. These professionals will help organizations turn raw data into actionable insights, drive strategic decisions, and foster innovation.
Industry relevance in the region
“Manufacturing systems now are very sophisticated. They can measure all sorts of things going on and you need some way to analyze that data and understand how you can improve the efficiency of it,” Kulies noted. He added that AI is already being deployed in manufacturing, automotive, finance, and health‑care sectors throughout northwest Ohio. By training a local workforce in these cutting‑edge skills, the university aims to support regional economic growth and keep talent within the community.
The online format means students from across the state—and beyond—can enroll without relocating, expanding access to high‑quality technical education for families and individuals seeking upward mobility.
How to apply
Prospective students can learn more about admission requirements, tuition, and course sequencing by visiting the University of Toledo’s website. The university encourages interested candidates to explore scholarship opportunities and employer tuition‑reimbursement programs that may help offset costs.
With the launch of this program, the University of Toledo reaffirms its commitment to providing practical, future‑focused education that aligns with the needs of both the local economy and the broader national job market.
Original reporting: 13abc WTVG Toledo (news) — read the source article.
