Studying with AI: new elective subject from October

From winter semester 2024/25, the University of Graz will be offering all students a subject bundle with a focus on artificial intelligence“. Photo: Uni Graz/Kanizaj

From winter semester 2024/25, the University of Graz will be offering all students a subject bundle, a so-called microcredential, with a focus on artificial intelligence. It comprises 16 ECTS credits and can be credited as an elective subject.

Since summer 2022, universities have been able to offer new, short courses on specific topics. These so-called "microcredentials" were created on the initiative of the Council of the European Union. This means that these learning contents are standardized at European level and can be recognized by other universities.

The University of Graz is now using this opportunity to offer its students a basic education in the field of artificial intelligence. Cathrine Walter-Laager, Vice-Rector for Teaching, says: "We want our students to understand and be able to use AI. We also want them to understand what impact AI has on our society'". Walter-Laager is convinced that this knowledge will benefit students both in their further studies and in the world of work.

For anyone who is now curious: This microcredential is open to all students. It is worth 16 ECTS points, which can be credited as part of electives. And there is also a certificate at the end.

"With the IdeaLab, the University of Graz is already demonstrating its high level of expertise in the field of artificial intelligence. The experts who set up this course programme are based there," says Markus Fallenböck, Vice-Rector for Human Resources and Digitalization. "And as everything is changing so quickly in this field, the IdeaLab will continue to develop the microcredential."

The transdisciplinary education reflects the strength of the University of Graz, as Rector Peter Riedler explains: "Our students learn to think outside the box. This training in AI therefore not only covers technical applications, but also legal and ethical aspects." This broad-based education prepares graduates for the challenges of the future.

Roman Vilgut

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