UT Dallas Launches Master’s Program Integrating AI with Biomedical Sciences for Diverse Career Paths

New Master’s Degree Elevates AI Expertise in Biomedical Sciences

The University of Texas at Dallas is launching a Master of Science program focused on artificial intelligence applications in biomedical sciences, starting this fall. This initiative aims to address workforce needs in health and medical fields that rely increasingly on data-driven approaches. The Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board approved the program in April, under the School of Natural Sciences and Mathematics (NSM).

While AI graduate programs exist in several Texas universities, UT Dallas’s new offering is among the first to center specifically on biomedical applications. This makes it a valuable option for professionals seeking to integrate AI with medical science.

AI’s Growing Role in Medical Science

“Artificial intelligence is becoming essential across medical science and health industries, from diagnosing diseases to developing treatments and managing healthcare,” said Dr. Vladimir Dragovic, head of mathematical sciences at UT Dallas. The curriculum is structured to align student skills with employer expectations and career goals.

Graduates can pursue roles in biotechnology, bioengineering, health informatics, or pharmaceuticals. The program’s versatility means AI skills will be applicable across numerous scientific sectors.

Interdisciplinary Curriculum

The curriculum was developed by faculty from mathematical sciences, with contributions from biological sciences, chemistry and biochemistry, physics, and bioengineering departments. Alongside the master’s degree, a graduate certificate in biomedical artificial intelligence is available. This certificate can enhance opportunities for students already pursuing advanced degrees in related fields.

Dr. Pankaj Choudhary, associate dean of graduate studies at NSM, emphasized the program’s strong research component combined with AI skill development, preparing students for diverse career paths.

Student Perspective

Aryan Najjari, a biomedical engineering doctoral student at the Erik Jonsson School of Engineering and Computer Science, has applied for both the master’s and certificate programs. His research involves developing biocompatible medical devices, and he intends to work in the medical-device industry. Najjari highlighted that AI skills will improve his research efficiency and expand career options in both academic and industrial settings.

Core and Elective Courses

The master’s program includes four new core courses developed by the mathematical sciences faculty:

• Introduction to Human Health
• Research Informatics and Programming for Biomedical Sciences
• Biostatistics and Epidemiology
• Artificial Intelligence for Human Health with Lab

The biological sciences department offers four new electives:

• Biomedical Case Studies in Artificial Intelligence
• Artificial Intelligence Ethics in Scientific Publishing
• Biomedical Dataset Analysis with Artificial Intelligence
• Human-Artificial Intelligence Interactions in Biology

The full curriculum and admission details can be found on the university’s program website.

Program Accessibility and Options

The program is accessible to students with backgrounds in science and engineering disciplines, requiring at least one semester each of calculus and statistics but no prior programming experience. Students can progress from fundamental programming to advanced AI skills throughout the program.

There is also a fast-track master’s option for qualified undergraduates completing degrees in biomedical sciences, biology, molecular biology, chemistry, biochemistry, or physics, enabling them to start graduate coursework early.

Dr. David Hyndman, NSM dean, noted that the program complements the school’s existing popular degree and certificate offerings in biological sciences and data science. The new MS in AI for biomedical sciences represents a significant addition to their academic portfolio.

Professionals interested in enhancing their AI skills within biomedical contexts may also find relevant training options at Complete AI Training, which offers courses tailored to various skill levels and job roles.