Sacramento State College of Business Launches Pioneering AI Concentration
Innovative Educational Initiative for a Changing Business Landscape
The College of Business at Sacramento State is set to launch a pioneering concentration focused on the practical applications of artificial intelligence (AI) within the business sector. Starting fall 2025, students at Sacramento State will have the opportunity to enroll in one of the first AI concentrations in the California State University (CSU) system. This initiative aims to equip students with the necessary skills to navigate the rapidly evolving technological landscape impacting today’s business world.
“Artificial intelligence is as transformative as the internet or smartphones,” stated Jean-Francois Coget, Dean of the College of Business. “From marketing to finance and beyond, AI will revolutionize all aspects of business operations. We want to ensure our students are well-prepared for these impending changes.”
Expanding Academic Offerings
Previously, the School of Business at Sacramento State offered ten concentrations, including Accountancy, Business Analytics, and Supply Chain Management, among others. The new AI concentration will complement these options by focusing on the tools and technologies set to dominate future business strategies.
The approval process for this innovative concentration is currently underway. However, students can begin enrolling in required courses come fall 2025. Additionally, a minor in Business AI is being developed to broaden student opportunities.
Curriculum and Practical Experience
According to Professor Joseph Taylor, who chairs the Information Systems & Business Analytics Department, the program’s curriculum will concentrate on practical AI applications, regulatory issues, and ethical considerations. “The arrival of AI will influence every department at the university,” Professor Taylor emphasized. “Our mission is to adapt our teaching to accommodate the needs of the future workforce and guide students in developing impactful AI solutions.”
The AI concentration will consist of five core courses accompanied by three electives, including an AI practicum. This component aims to provide students with hands-on experience by engaging them in real-world AI projects with local businesses or nonprofit organizations.
“First-hand experience is invaluable,” Taylor noted. “We aim to immerse students in practical projects to enhance their readiness for the AI-integrated business environment.”
Industry Impact and Future Workforce
The business domain is already experiencing the impact of AI, said Taylor, who left a corporate strategic planning role after two decades to enter academia. AI is reshaping processes, such as loan approvals in banking, potentially rendering some entry-level jobs, often filled by Sacramento State graduates, obsolete.
“The nature of job roles is evolving,” Taylor remarked. “It’s imperative to rethink our educational content to better align with industry needs.”
Program Implementation and Timing
Traditionally, introducing a new program can span several years. However, the College of Business expedited the AI concentration approval to better serve its learners and capitalize on the demand for AI expertise.
“Companies are harnessing AI in ways that will disrupt traditional models,” Dean Coget commented. “We’re witnessing a revolution, and timing is crucial if we want to stay ahead.”
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Note: This article is inspired by content from https://www.csus.edu/news/newsroom/stories/2025/4/ai-business.html. It has been rephrased for originality. Images are credited to the original source.