Introduction to AI Engineering

Catalog description

This course provides a foundational orientation to the field of AI engineering, focusing on the essential interplay between programming, mathematics, and real-world applications. Learners apply core programming principles and foundational mathematical ideas that support algorithmic thinking and analyze how these foundations enable the design and development of AI systems. Students also describe how AI engineering differs from related domains, such as data science and academic research, with an emphasis on applied engineering practice. Through conceptual frameworks, applied examples, and introductory analysis, students begin to understand the skills, mindset, and responsibilities of AI engineers, including considerations related to scalability, reliability, and responsible use of AI technologies. The course establishes a strong foundation for success in the AI Engineering program by clarifying expectations for rigor and by highlighting the relevance of foundational competencies for building trustworthy, impactful, and real-world AI solutions.