Artificial intelligence is reshaping the economy. Canada expects to see over 250,000 new AI relevant jobs by 2031. Students know this and want to learn how to build and apply these technologies. To meet this demand, universities in Atlantic Canada are stepping up. According to a recent CBC News report, the University of New Brunswick in Saint John and Dalhousie University are launching new degree programs focused on data science and artificial intelligence.

UNB Saint John and Dalhousie Lead the Way

UNB Saint John will introduce a Bachelor of Data Science degree in September 2027. Connie Stewart, head of the math department at UNB, says the university plans to add a specific AI concentration or major later.

Meanwhile, Dalhousie University plans to launch an AI major under its computer science program within the next two years. Frank Rudzicz, a computer science professor at Dalhousie and Canada Institute for Advanced Research chair in AI, notes this gives the region a chance to get ahead of the curve.

Keeping Talent in Atlantic Canada

The United States currently leads in AI education. The first American AI university degree launched in 2018. Canada has options in Ontario and out west, but Atlantic Canada needs to stay competitive. Rudzicz emphasizes the importance of building local talent to support unique regional needs like ocean industries, defence, and agriculture.

“We don’t want to lose the opportunity to people moving west,” he says.

Other local institutions are also taking action. Memorial University of Newfoundland offers a master’s degree in AI. Holland College in Prince Edward Island is launching a post graduate certificate. New Brunswick Community College will offer self paced courses and an AI microcredential.

The Cost of Falling Behind

Universities must adapt quickly. Joel Blit, a professor at the University of Waterloo, warns that schools failing to offer AI education will lose students to outside competitors. Blit believes equal access to AI education prevents societal inequalities.

“AI has the potential to tremendously empower people,” Blit says. “We can’t afford to have a fraction of our society being left behind.”

Frequently Asked Questions

When does the UNB Saint John data science program start?

UNB Saint John will launch its Bachelor of Data Science degree in September 2027.

Will Dalhousie University offer an AI degree?

Yes. Dalhousie University plans to launch a major in artificial intelligence within its computer science program in the next two years.

Are there other AI programs in Atlantic Canada?

Yes. Memorial University offers a master’s degree in AI. Holland College is launching a post graduate certificate. New Brunswick Community College offers self paced courses and an AI microcredential.

Why are universities creating these programs now?

Canada expects to add over 250,000 AI relevant jobs by 2031. Universities want to prepare students for this changing job market and keep local talent in Atlantic Canada.