California Institute for Human Science Introduces First Accredited AGI Master's Program

The California Institute for Human Science (CIHS) has launched the first accredited Master of Science program dedicated exclusively to Artificial General Intelligence (AGI). This marks a significant departure from typical AI degrees by focusing on the foundational questions of general intelligence rather than current AI applications.

Program Focus and Faculty

Unlike most AI graduate programs that train students to use existing AI tools and models, CIHS’s new M.S. in AGI explores scientific, engineering, ethical, and civilizational issues surrounding the nature of intelligence itself. The courses are delivered live online and taught by pioneering researchers who helped establish the AGI field. Dr. Ben Goertzel, who coined the term 'artificial general intelligence' and founded projects such as SingularityNET and the Hyperon AGI project, is among the instructors.

Institutional Accreditation and Vision

The program is institutionally accredited by the WSCUC Senior College and University Commission, the same body accrediting Stanford and Caltech. Timothy Laporte, Interim President of CIHS, emphasized the institute’s commitment to addressing complex questions about intelligence, consciousness, and the societal implications of AGI as it transitions from theory to reality.

Dr. Goertzel highlighted the urgent need for AGI professionals skilled not only in various AI technical paradigms but also knowledgeable in the intersections of AGI with consciousness, ethics, and society. He praised the collaboration with CIHS in creating this degree aimed at preparing the next generation of AGI scientists to develop beneficial technologies responsibly.

Distinctive Approach to AGI Education

The program treats AGI as an independent discipline with unresolved technical challenges and a rich research tradition rather than as a specialization under computer science. This distinction aims to attract students seriously interested in foundational AGI research and its transformative potential.

This material is for informational purposes and does not constitute financial advice.