HSE University Tops AI Alliance Ranking for Quality AI Education
8 Aug 2025
For the third time, the AI Alliance Russia has released its ranking of Russian universities offering bachelor's and specialist's programmes in artificial intelligence. This year, HSE University emerged as the clear leader, entering the newly established highest category, A++.
The ranking evaluates universities based on open data and independent research, including surveys of over 150 employers and more than 12,000 students. Verification of university data through official channels has improved the transparency and reliability of the results.
Collaboration Between Academia and Industry
Valery Falkov, Minister of Science and Higher Education of the Russian Federation, emphasized the importance of cooperation between universities and businesses. He noted that the AI Alliance brings these groups together to tackle challenges that arise as AI becomes integral to various economic sectors. One key achievement is the development of this ranking focused on AI education quality.
Alexander Vedyakhin, First Deputy Chairman of Sberbank’s Executive Board and Chairman of the AI Alliance Supervisory Board, highlighted the ranking’s role as both a reflection of Russia’s AI education standards and a strategic guide for advancing the country’s digital economy and technological independence. He pointed out that investments in people and partnerships between science, education, and business are critical for innovation and maintaining international competitiveness.
HSE University’s Approach to AI Education
HSE University’s Rector, Nikita Anisimov, credited the university’s success to its integrated ecosystem, including strong ties with IT industry leaders. He explained that both students and staff share a high level of digital literacy, and AI research is increasingly multidisciplinary. Collaboration with major Russian tech companies supports joint degree programmes, fundamental research, and applied projects aimed at addressing national development priorities.
At HSE, digital skills and AI technologies are taught across all majors. The Faculty of Computer Science and other departments have introduced AI-focused degree programmes in partnership with leading industry players. AI education is also expanding across HSE campuses beyond Moscow.
Leadership Views on AI Education Strategy
- Ivan Arzhantsev, Dean of the Faculty of Computer Science: He attributes HSE’s top ranking to a strategy combining fundamental AI research with industrial cooperation. The faculty prioritizes creating an ecosystem where science, education, and industry collaborate to foster innovation.
- Mikhail Mukhin, Dean of the School of Computer Science, Physics, and Technology in St Petersburg: He emphasized the value of partnerships, citing the joint effort with VK to build a unique environment for AI professional training. The success reflects a balance between academic rigor and practical industry experience.
- Sergey Roshchin, Vice Rector of HSE University: He pointed out that the ranking is a significant external validation by major BigTech employers. Moving into the A++ group signals the university’s ability to adapt to new challenges and maintain technological leadership while providing students with essential AI competencies.
The AI Alliance ranking underscores the importance of aligning education with industry needs to prepare skilled professionals for the evolving AI sector. For researchers and educators focused on AI, HSE University’s model offers insights into building effective programmes through collaboration and a multidisciplinary approach.
For those interested in expanding their AI skills, exploring practical courses and certifications can be beneficial. Resources like Complete AI Training’s latest AI courses provide a range of options for professionals looking to deepen their expertise.
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