CERTIFICATE PROGRAM
Open to All Undergraduate Students
AI Foundations for a Thoughtful Future
The AI Foundations, Ethics & Applications Certificate provides students with an interdisciplinary introduction to the fundamentals of artificial intelligence, its societal implications, and its diverse applications across academic fields. Open to students from all majors, the certificate is designed to equip participants with foundational knowledge of computer science and artificial intelligence, while fostering critical reflection on ethical, cultural, and professional challenges associated with emerging AI technologies.
No prior coding or computer science experience is required!
This certificate is designed to complement a wide range of majors and prepares students for advanced study, professional development, and informed engagement with AI in their chosen fields.
The program’s strong focus on ethical, social, and cultural dimensions of artificial intelligence reflects Hofstra’s commitment to integrity, responsibility, and meaningful contribution to society. By fostering ethical reflection alongside technical understanding, the certificate prepares students to engage thoughtfully with emerging technologies and to use them in ways that are informed, reflective, and socially responsible.
News Update: Hofstra Fuses AI Ethics with Functionality in New Undergrad Interdisciplinary Certificate for Fall 20269
Credit Hours
3
Core Courses
All
Majors Welcome
“With this new certificate program, Hofstra will ensure that all interested students, regardless of their area of study, have the opportunity to learn about the multiple dimensions of artificial intelligence. Students will wrestle with the ethical and social issues related to AI, while considering its utility in academia and in their chosen career.”
-Susan Poser, PhD
President
Hofstra University
Program Objectives
Upon completion of the certificate, students will be able to:
Demonstrate a broad understanding of AI principles and practices.
Analyze ethical and social questions arising from AI development and deployment.
Apply AI-related insights to disciplinary contexts in the humanities, social sciences, and natural sciences.
“AI literacy is no longer optional — it is the new baseline for professional readiness across every field.”
— Charles G. Riordan, PhD
Provost & Senior Vice President for Academic Affairs, Hofstra University
Program Requirements
Total Semester Hours: 9
The program requires two core courses and one elective.
Elective
In addition to the two required courses, students complete one elective drawn from a growing list of AI-related courses across the university, allowing them to explore pplications of AI aligned with their field of study and interests. Current courses on the list include:
The AI Certificate prepares students for the present job market and for future technological innovations by instilling critical and ethical learning that will serve them throughout their lives. It introduces them to the mechanics and operations of AI and prompts them to think broadly about the role of technology in all other aspects of their lives — in their culture, labor, and communities.
— Joseph Bartolotta
Associate Professor, Writing Studies & Composition
Contact Us
Get More Information
Amy Baehr
Professor of Philosophy & Department Chair
Heger Hall 211
Current Students
Current Hofstra students should schedule an appointment with the Center for University Advising to discuss joining the certificate program and how it may impact their academic path.
Our dedicated team is ready to address your questions and provide the personalized guidance you need to stay on track.