AI is revolutionising the world – and that could have a big impact on your career. From self-driving cars to ChatGPT, it is rapidly bringing futuristic ideas into our everyday lives, including our work. While some people are concerned about what that means for their jobs, AI holds great potential for anyone who chooses to study it. Even the most advanced tools still need people to design and look after them, and with a degree in AI, one of those people could be you. Find out more below.
What is AI?
AI, or artificial intelligence, is intelligence demonstrated by machines. Decades of developments in the fields of computer science and technology have seen this move from science fiction to everyday reality. While it may not be true to say that machines can yet think for themselves, they can undertake many tasks that humans can, and often with greater speed and accuracy.
These tasks are wide-ranging. Voice-activated assistants such as Alexa and Siri can articulately answer questions in seconds. Facial recognition technology is used to secure phones, laptops and bank accounts. Self-parking vehicles, meanwhile, can make life easier for even the most experienced drivers.
Overall, AI is a vast and fast-moving field. Where it goes next is a question that is continually debated. By getting an AI degree, you can have a say in the answer.
What jobs are there in AI?
There are many jobs in AI that a degree in the subject can open up to you. Some of the most notable ones include:
- AI engineer
- AI researcher
- Software engineer
- Computer scientist
- Robotics scientist
- Natural language processing scientist
- Machine learning engineer
In addition, you could find work in a related role. Many employers look for the kind of technical knowledge and skills possessed by AI graduates when hiring for these positions:
- Data scientist
- Data analyst
- Research scientist
- Business intelligence developer
- User experience researcher
- Systems engineer
- Information architect
Beyond this, you could also put what you have learned to use in some less obvious settings. Employers in creative industries, for instance, are always eager to discover how new technology can influence their work. To that end, anyone with a degree in AI would have the inside track on how to use it in the creation of art, whether that be visual, literary or musical.
Elsewhere, the job title of prompt engineer has been given to people who know how to ask the right questions to services such as ChatGPT in order to get effective responses. This is a skill that will become increasingly desired across numerous job sectors.
Will AI jobs be in demand?
You can be sure that with a degree in AI, jobs will not be in short supply. According to the World Economic Forum’s 2023 Future of Jobs report, the number of roles in AI and machine learning is growing at a faster rate than in any other field.
Graduates with a strong understanding of AI are in high demand. In fact, at this stage in its development, there are more people needed to fill related roles than there are with the qualifications required. As such, now is the perfect time to consider it as a focus of your career.
Still need more convincing? Read our reasons why you should study artificial intelligence.
Will AI take my job?
Speculation about the potential for AI to replace humans in the workplace has gone on for many years, but given its rapid development, it is understandable that concern is increasing.
However, as things stand, AI tools and systems still require development and oversight from experts. If anyone is well placed to avoid being overtaken by an artificially intelligent system, it is the person whose job it is to look after it. Therefore, a degree in AI is a safe option if you are concerned about the coming wave of all-powerful robots.
Moreover, it is not necessarily the case that increased use of AI will lead to universal employment problems. In addition to creating the task of overseeing work it performs, AI could open up new possibilities for the way we think about work in general.
It has long been suggested that automated processes could free up time for humans to do things other than work. In any society that develops to the point at which they can do enough of that without us, there may need to be a reappraisal of the balance between labour and leisure. Depending on the will of politicians, industry and the people, ideas like universal basic income could yet become a reality.
Where can I study AI?
A growing number of universities around the world offer AI degrees. These can be undergraduate or postgraduate, and sometimes include a work placement. While you are studying, you can expect to learn about programming, mechanics, and even the political and philosophical issues surrounding the subject. Some institutions, such as the University of Melbourne, go as far as offering short courses in AI ethics.
Additionally, you may often find courses that combine AI with related disciplines, such as engineering and computer science. This reflects the overlap it has with different fields, and the opportunity it provides to specialise in various areas. For instance, you can also pursue specific degrees in robotics and machine learning. As the field continues to develop, so will your options for studying it.
Excited by the possibility of studying AI? Careers of a kind your parents could never imagine await you. Find the perfect AI degree for you now with our simple site search tool.
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