Imagine a future where business leaders don’t just understand numbers and markets—they wield the power of artificial intelligence to reshape industries. That future is closer than you think, and one New Jersey university is leading the charge. Starting in the spring of 2026, the New Jersey Institute of Technology (NJIT) will launch a groundbreaking Bachelor of Science in Business with AI, the first undergraduate program of its kind in the state. But here’s where it gets exciting: this isn’t just another degree—it’s a bridge between two worlds that are increasingly inseparable.
At its core, the program addresses a critical gap in today’s workforce: companies desperately need professionals who can apply AI to real-world business challenges. Students won’t just learn finance or marketing in isolation; they’ll dive into cutting-edge AI tools like machine learning, data analytics, and natural language processing, then see how these technologies drive strategic decisions. And this is the part most people miss: it’s not just about coding or algorithms—it’s about understanding how AI transforms industries, from supply chains to customer engagement.
But here’s where it gets controversial: as NJIT positions itself as a leader in AI by 2030, some might ask whether blending business and AI dilutes the depth of either field. Is this a jack-of-all-trades approach, or a visionary leap? The university’s officials argue the latter, pointing to initiatives like the NJ AI Hub, which aims to unite researchers, startups, and industry leaders under one roof. With New Jersey investing heavily in AI, this program isn’t just timely—it’s a strategic move to keep the state’s graduates competitive in a rapidly evolving job market.
So, what can students expect? A hybrid curriculum that splits time between traditional business courses and specialized AI training. They’ll also gain access to NJIT’s Wulver supercomputer, a powerhouse for large-scale data projects. Internships with local businesses and partnerships with industry leaders will ensure students apply their skills in real-world settings. And in their final year, they’ll tackle an AI capstone project, collaborating with actual companies under the guidance of mentors and faculty. Think hackathons, case competitions, and networking events—all designed to prepare them for the AI-driven workplace.
Here’s the bold claim: graduates of this program won’t just be business professionals or AI specialists—they’ll be AI-savvy business leaders. As Oya Tukel, Dean of NJIT’s Martin Tuchman School of Management, puts it, “Our goal is to produce graduates who can bridge the gap between technical teams and business strategy. By infusing AI across our curriculum and providing hands-on learning, we’re creating a talent pipeline ready to lead in an AI-integrated world.”
But let’s pause for a moment. Is this the future of business education, or a niche experiment? As AI becomes embedded in every business function, programs like this could set a new standard. Or, they might face skepticism from traditionalists who question whether AI belongs at the heart of business training. What do you think? Is this the kind of education the next generation needs, or are we moving too fast?
For New Jersey, the stakes are clear. This program isn’t just about producing skilled graduates—it’s about positioning the state as a hub for AI innovation. By connecting higher education, industry, and government, NJIT is helping build an AI-driven economy. But the bigger question remains: can this model be replicated elsewhere, or is it uniquely suited to New Jersey’s ecosystem?
One thing’s for sure: as AI reshapes the business landscape, programs like NJIT’s are no longer optional—they’re essential. The only question left is, are we ready to embrace this future? Let us know your thoughts in the comments—we’d love to hear whether you think this is a game-changer or a passing trend.
