North Carolina Central University (NCCU) is equipping its newest class of nearly 1,700 first-year students with the digital skills needed to thrive in today’s technology-driven world.
Starting this fall, every freshman enrolled in UNIV 1100: Introduction to University Education will complete an introduction to artificial intelligence module through the IBM Skills Builder platform. NCCU is one of the first historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs) in the nation to embed AI education into a required freshman course.
By the end of their first semester, students, regardless of major, will gain foundational AI knowledge, earn industry-recognized digital badges and certificates, and unlock access to mentorship and internship pipelines with IBM and other industry partners.
Traditionally, UNIV1100 helps students adjust to college life, strengthen study habits and build community. With this bold expansion, the course also becomes a gateway to emerging technologies, ensuring every Eagle has the tools to compete in an AI-driven workforce.
“Learning AI contributes directly to the mission of University College, ‘to provide academic experiences that engage students in their intellectual, personal and professional development,’” said Zack Underwood, Ph.D., dean of NCCU’s University College. “AI fosters skill-building for students and engaging with this technology will provide additional support in the college transition, future careers and four-year graduation.”
The effort is powered by a partnership between IBM and NCCU’s Institute for Artificial Intelligence and Emerging Research (IAIER). As part of the launch, IBM representatives will visit campus to engage with students directly.