De Anza College launches Silicon Valley's first two-year AI degree

De Anza College launches Silicon Valley's first two-year AI degree

De Anza College in Cupertino will offer an Associate in Science degree in Applied Artificial Intelligence starting this fall, making it the first community college in the region to award a two-year degree focused on the field.

The college is also introducing six new AI-focused credentials and more than 20 additional degree and certificate programs. The curriculum covers basic AI concepts and methodologies, with technical certificates in machine learning, deep learning, natural language processing, prompt engineering, and AI agents.

For educators, this expansion signals a broader shift in how institutions are responding to workforce demands. The number of bachelor's degree programs in AI more than doubled nationally in a single year-from 90 programs in 2024 to 193 in 2025, according to Degree Prospects. Master's programs in AI are now offered at 153 universities, with 85 universities offering bachelor's degrees.

De Anza's new offerings reflect institutional recognition that AI literacy matters across disciplines. Ram Subramaniam, the college's vice president of Instruction, said the programs aim to help students "make informed choices about engaging with AI" while emphasizing information literacy, personal responsibility, and critical thinking.

The curriculum includes a strong emphasis on responsible AI development and ethical practice. All credits transfer to UC and CSU schools, allowing students to continue into four-year programs.

Employment demand supports the expansion. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that positions for data scientists will grow 41.7% through 2033.

De Anza is also launching new programs in automotive service and repair, engineering with an electrical engineering track, and updated mathematics certificates. Two new transfer-focused degrees in music and child and adolescent development guarantee CSU admission upon completion.

Additional fall offerings include certificates in Mandarin translation and interpretation, animated film, professional photography, journalism, and nonprofit management.

Education professionals implementing AI curricula may find value in exploring AI for Education resources and AI for Teachers materials to stay current with curriculum development practices.