Artificial intelligence (AI) is redefining industries and reshaping how we live, work, and solve problems. That’s why choosing the right place to study AI can be a game-changer. California State University, Fullerton (CSUF) is emerging as a leading hub for AI education, research, and innovation, offering students unique opportunities to engage with cutting-edge technology and apply it to real-world challenges.
What Does Studying AI Achieve?
Studying AI is useful for all students—even those outside of computer science fields who will pursue careers in AI research, development, and engineering. AI’s ability to automate and streamline tasks; rapidly analyze massive datasets, detect patterns, and provide predictions; support better decision-making; and increase efficiency mean that it has beneficial applications in nearly any field. And although people worry that AI may render some jobs obsolete, it’s also true that it will create new jobs. Already, there’s a growing need in our economy for professionals who know how to work alongside AI: how to safely use it for maximum benefit, how to implement it into workflows within an organization, and how to use it to build valuable applications and other products.
Other students who study AI may be interested in exploring its ethical implications, such as privacy, transparency, accountability, and bias concerns. Ethical, appropriate use of AI will be increasingly important as the technology becomes more advanced.
A Thriving Ecosystem for AI Education
CSUF has built a robust AI ecosystem rooted in interdisciplinary collaboration and future-focused learning. At the heart of this effort is the university’s AI Hub, a campus-wide initiative funded by a $400,000 National Science Foundation grant awarded in November 2024. The AI Hub aims to develop accessible, inclusive, and ethical AI curricula while fostering industry partnerships that translate classroom learning into real-world career readiness. By integrating disciplines such as computer science, engineering, business, mathematics, and biological sciences, the AI Hub will prepare students not only to use AI tools, but also to shape the future of AI itself. For example, students will have the opportunity to work with faculty to develop AI applications and assist with research projects sponsored by industry partners.
Real-World Research with Real Impact
One of CSUF’s most exciting offerings is its Generative AI-Assisted Chip Design program, part of the California Education Learning Lab’s AI FAST Challenge. This hands-on initiative immerses students in semiconductor research, in which they use generative AI to solve complex challenges in chip design and microelectronics. The program includes intensive summer research experiences and ongoing faculty mentorship, giving students the technical and creative skills needed to break into one of the technology industry’s most lucrative and fast-evolving subsectors.
AI Tools and Training at Your Fingertips
Students at Cal State Fullerton don’t just study AI—they use it daily. The university provides access to AI tools like TitanGPT, Microsoft Copilot, and Adobe Firefly for students, faculty, and staff. Whether you’re a computer science student running machine learning models or an art major exploring AI-generated visuals, CSUF helps students gain hands-on experience with the tools shaping today’s creative and technical industries.
Personalized and Inclusive Learning
Faculty at CSUF are also exploring how AI tools can be used as an aid in higher education. One standout research project led by Professor Yuko Okado is using AI to create a personalized career exploration platform specifically for underserved psychology students. Students can interact with virtual mentors to ask questions and receive personalized career and academic advice. Funded by a $979,212 grant from the National Science Foundation, the project helps reduce attrition in STEM and ensures students from all backgrounds feel supported and represented in AI-focused fields.
Elsewhere within the California State University system, scholars are researching everything from AI’s role in military decision-making to its use in multicultural educational environments and its capacity to address issues like food insecurity, pollution, and public health concerns.
Five Great Reasons to Study AI at CSUF
- Diverse Career Opportunities: From chip design to mental health tech, studying AI can prepare students for a wide range of high-demand, high-impact careers.
- Hands-On Research: Opportunities like the AI FAST Challenge and faculty-led research projects give students direct access to industry-relevant experience.
- Global and Local Impact: CSUF emphasizes AI’s role in solving real-world problems, both in the community and across the globe.
- Access to AI Tools: With access to applications like TitanGPT and Adobe Firefly, everyone on campus can gain familiarity and comfort with using these powerful tools.
- Supportive, Forward-Thinking Community: With NSF funding, state-of-the-art tools, and a commitment to inclusivity, CSUF offers a dynamic learning environment for those eager to take advantage of all that AI has to offer.
As artificial intelligence continues to transform our world, Cal State Fullerton is equipping students not only to keep up, but to lead. Whether you’re passionate about building the next big thing or making sure technology works for everyone, CSUF can provide the tools, mentorship, and mission to help you make your mark in AI.