Emory University announced on Apr. 14 that it has launched a new undergraduate course, “Introduction to AI Applications” (DATASCI 185), designed for students from any major who want to learn about artificial intelligence without needing prior coding or advanced math skills. The two-credit course is offered by the Department of Data and Decision Sciences (DSci) and aims to provide a broad overview of AI’s impact on work, institutions, and daily life.
The new course responds to growing interest in understanding how artificial intelligence affects various aspects of society. By removing technical barriers, Emory seeks to make AI literacy accessible for all students as they prepare for a workforce increasingly shaped by emerging technologies.
Danilo Freire, visiting assistant professor in DSci and developer of the syllabus, said the class was created with inclusivity in mind. “AI is going to be a companion in the job market for the foreseeable future. The goal is to make our students better informed citizens and to give them the tools they need to be competitive in the market,” Freire said. “We wanted to make it as democratic as possible—no coding requirements, no prerequisites like calculus or linear algebra. It’s basically AI for everyone.”
Freire adapts his teaching regularly due to rapid changes in technology and includes current events relevant to artificial intelligence. First-year student Chad Himes commented on this approach: “The technology changes week by week, day by day,” Himes said. “We’re learning about the real world as it happens.” He also noted that students from diverse academic backgrounds contribute varied perspectives during discussions.
Senior Phoebe Gentry shared her initial hesitation but now recommends the class: “I’m not a math person. Honestly, I wouldn’t have taken the class if coding was involved,” she said. “I want to let other nontechnical majors know that there is nothing to be intimidated about. I find the class very accessible.”
For those interested in deeper study after taking DATASCI 185, Emory will introduce an AI track within DSci starting spring 2027 for department majors only. Cliff Carrubba, chair of DSci, explained its purpose: “The workforce today needs people who can work with large volumes of data… This track bridges AI literacy and AI ethics with a focus on informed decision-making for positive societal impact.” Carrubba added that these offerings align with Emory’s broader initiative aimed at preparing students not just as users but evaluators of emerging technologies.
