Program Overview

MBA Specialization: Applied Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning

The Villanova School of Business offers a Professional MBA specialization in Applied Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning. This specialization is designed to equip business leaders with the knowledge and skills to apply AI and ML in various industries.

Overview

The Applied Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning specialization is rooted in business practices, not coding. It provides students with analytical thinking skills to turn data into actionable steps. The specialization covers the application and ethical implications of AI/ML, including natural language processing, expert systems, and robotics.

Curriculum

The specialization includes the following courses:

• 8136 - AI & ML for Business (1.5 credits): This course provides a comprehensive understanding of AI trends and their impact on the future of work.
• 8137 - Business Applications for AI & ML (1.5 credits): This course explores AI and ML applications in various industries, including real estate, banking, finance, and healthcare.
• 8138 - Business Problems in Artificial Intelligence & Machine Learning (3 credits): This course provides hands-on experience using AI/ML to tackle real-world business challenges.
• 8139 - Emerging Business Tech (3 credits): This course examines the range of digital technologies transforming and disrupting business processes, including artificial intelligence, machine learning, and blockchain.
• 8149 - Gen AI for Business Practitioners (1.5 credits): This course guides students through the landscape of Generative AI, highlighting its role in streamlining business processes and decision-making.
• 8149 - AI Ethics and Bias for Business Practitioners (1.5 credits): This course comprehensively examines AI systems' ethical considerations and biases, including case studies and strategies to mitigate bias.

Student Testimonials

Students who have completed the specialization have reported positive outcomes, including:

• Raul M. Gutierrez, Business Development Manager at PepsiCo - Frito Lay North America: "The AI/ML specialization at Villanova has been instrumental in equipping me with the knowledge and skills to navigate the rapidly changing technological landscape in the business world."
• Rose Olintz, Business Intelligence Analyst II at Jefferson Health: "Villanova's Professional MBA AI/ML Specialization stands out because there is no requirement to learn code and all courses use low code
  o code modeling platforms."
• Kara Skarda, Consultant, Business Analysis at Fidelity Investments: "Business Problems in AI/ML (8138) stands out as the most impactful course in the specialization as it allowed me to apply what I learned in the two previous AI/ML courses."
• Cody McKinney, Product Marketing Manager at Salesforce: "The world is changing so fast and the pivot to AI has been dramatic. Every technology company in the world is investing in this technology and implementing it across the tech stack."

Specialization Details

The AI/ML specialization is available through the Professional MBA program's elective requirements. Each student receives their specialization by earning 7.5 credits in this subject area while taking the MBA courses. The specialization is designed to provide business leaders with a deeper understanding of how to apply AI/ML techniques to solve real-world business problems.