With the growing importance of AI, cybersecurity, computing and data skills across nearly every profession and academic discipline, Bellini College welcomes all USF students who are interested in developing foundational skills in these areas. Students from any major can now register directly for three introductory courses in artificial intelligence, programming, and databases through the Bellini College of Artificial Intelligence, Cybersecurity and Computing. None of the three courses requires prerequisites.
“Foundational knowledge of artificial intelligence, programming, and databases is increasingly valuable across academic disciplines and professional fields,” said Ken Christensen, associate dean of academics in the Bellini College. “By offering introductory courses in each of these areas, we are giving students the opportunity to develop essential computing knowledge and skills that they can apply in their respective disciplines and future careers.”
The courses are:
- CAI 1000 – Foundations of Artificial Intelligence
- COP 2510 – Programming Concepts
- CGS 1540 – Introduction to Databases
Students can register for these courses directly without requesting a course permit. They should consult with their academic advisor in their respective college to determine how the courses apply toward their degree requirements, including as a general or unrestricted elective.
The opportunity also extends beyond introductory courses. Students from other colleges may qualify for upper-level Bellini College courses based on their academic backgrounds and completion of prerequisites. Interested students can meet with a Bellini College advisor to discuss eligibility and whether a course permit is appropriate. Their home-college advisor can confirm how the course would count toward their degree.
“We want students to be able to connect foundational computing knowledge with the subjects they already care about,” Christensen said. “We want to support students who want to explore how technology can contribute to their education and career goals, no matter what discipline they study.”
Students with questions about the three lower-level courses and students interested in upper-level courses should contact Bellini College advisors to discuss their options.