In recent years, there has been a rapid emergence of new and improving AI technology and practices that have integrated into every field. To meet this both effectively and with care, Walla Walla University is offering a variety of AI-focused training programs and classes to ensure students and faculty are prepared to utilize this tool with skill and discernment.
The largest of these additions, in scope, is the Department of Computer Science’s Bachelor of Science in artificial intelligence. It covers not just how to build these systems but how to evaluate, critique, and responsibly use them.
“I think a lot of programs treat AI as a purely technical skill set, but we want to graduate students who can build these systems and ask hard questions about them,” said Chiké Abuah, visiting professor of computer science. “That ethical grounding isn't just an afterthought or elective for us; it runs through our whole curriculum.”
The School of Business’ MBA program is also offering an AI specialization. Students learn how to drive business innovation, efficiency, and ethical decision-making through a strong understanding of AI technologies.
Paul Rhynard, director of the MBA program, said, “AI is changing the workplace very quickly, especially white-collar jobs. It is paramount we teach our graduate business students, who should be future leaders in their organizations, how to manage and leverage AI effectively.”
The School of Education and Psychology is making its own steps to prepare students to best utilize AI through critical thinking and technical skill. The school has embedded AI learning into every education technology course and various other courses where appropriate.
This summer, Brian Hartman, associate professor of education, is also instructing a Topics in Education class on using AI to support standards-based learning. This online class is for teachers who have been teaching for three or more years, at any level.
“Teaching standards-based learning requires teachers to develop new curriculum and assessments. This process takes a significant amount of time. Leveraging the use of AI will assist them in making the transition to a new curriculum that will be more effective for students,” said Hartman.
WWU faculty and staff will also complete their own AI Ready training from the Council of Independent Colleges. AI Ready is designed to foster learning, share resources, and increase effective adoption related to AI. The network focuses on pedagogical and business uses for AI.
At its core, WWU values excellence in thought, generosity in service, beauty in expression, and faith in God. It’s through these lenses that we approach this subject to prepare students for the successes and setbacks of life after university.
“AI raises some of the deepest ethical questions out there, about autonomy, fairness, and core human values. WWU gives students a coherent moral framework to wrestle with those questions, and I think that is very special,” said Abuah.
Learn about majoring in AI at WWU by visiting wallawalla.edu/cs, or look into an MBA specialization in AI at wallawalla.edu/mba. To learn more about AI and WWU, visit wallawalla.edu/ai.
Posted May 11, 2026.
