From the President

Artificial intelligence holds a world of extraordinary possibilities for us all, which is why UT has named 2024 “The Year of AI.”
The University of Texas at Austin President, Jay Hartzell

Photo: Wyatt McSpadden

Here on the Forty Acres, we recently celebrated commencement — one of my favorite weekends each year. As I have watched family, friends and faculty cheer on our students, I know The University of Texas at Austin has prepared these Longhorns well. They are equipped to succeed not only in their first job, but also in their third and fourth jobs in careers they have yet to imagine. The ever-evolving field of artificial intelligence is a great example. This rapidly changing technology holds extraordinary possibilities for us all, which is why we declared 2024 as the Year of AI at UT Austin.

Think of AI as the world’s most ambitious science project — one that touches every discipline on campus. From medical advances aimed at curing cancer and disease to major engineering challenges that normally would take years of experimentation, AI uses supercomputing to solve problems like a human brain would, but millions of times faster.

The first cohort of 700 students in UT’s online master’s of AI program began coursework in January. It is the first large-scale AI degree program offered by a top-tier institution. Students are excited they can enroll at our University, which holds a top-10 ranking in AI and has a massive alumni base around the world, from virtually anywhere. Best of all, the program is offered at an affordable price, which makes it more accessible.

Gaston Alvarado Maza, currently enrolled in this program, says, “The course content is of high quality, and the instructors and mentors are highly prepared in every topic.” Our goal is to make sure students like Gaston are able to graduate and immediately start making a difference.

Departments and colleges across campus are working together to solve the most complex problems facing our world today. Collaboration allows us to create even more impact, and that is why we treat AI like a team sport. Your contributions, combined with the passion and expertise found at UT, help us continue the upward trajectory of AI that began here decades ago. Texas Leaders do just that — help lead the way. Each of you shows an unwavering commitment to UT. You have my deepest gratitude.

PresidentsLetter Signature
Jay Hartzell, President
The University of Texas at Austin

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