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Manila Bulletin devider Lifestyle devider Schools and Universities devider What to know about the country's first Artificial Intelligence Engineering undergrad program

What to know about the country's first Artificial Intelligence Engineering undergrad program

Built for tomorrow, Mapúa's new course tackles robotics, generative AI, and more

Published Jul 22, 2025 05:08 pm
There’s no denying that artificial intelligence (AI) technologies are changing our lives. The World Economic Forum’s Future of Jobs Report 2025 even projected that AI specialists will be among the top 10 fastest-growing job roles through 2030. In addition, experts predict that by 2030, AI and automation will transform 39 percent of workers' fundamental skills.
In keeping with future demand, Mapúa University has launched a cutting-edge Bachelor of Science in AI Engineering degree this academic year, 2025-2026, the first-ever undergraduate program of its kind in the Philippines.
AI engineering involves teaching computers to think and learn like humans, enabling them to help solve everyday challenges. The field combines engineering, computer science, and data science to create intelligent systems, such as applications that can recognize faces, recommend products, aid in disease diagnosis, predict potential natural disasters, or manage traffic systems.
This four-year degree, with a two-term AI Engineering program, has 205 credit units. It covers both technical depth and academic foundation courses to develop globally competitive graduates who can optimize core AI technologies and lead in the development and integration of ethical and socially responsive AI tools and systems.
In an interview with Manila Bulletin Lifestyle, Arnold C. Paglinawan, Ph.D., dean of the School of Electrical, Electronics, and Computer Engineering of Mapúa University, said that the Bachelor of Science in AI Engineering is currently exclusively available only at Mapúa University and not in other Malayan Colleges yet. He also said that everyone can apply to it, but in order to be a student, they need to apply online and pass the Mapúa Program Placement Assessment (MPASS).
“When it comes to the cost of tuition fees, it starts at P57,000, but they can check online for all the details,” he said. “Currently there’s no limit to the number of students, but they must pass the MPASS.”
He then explained that AI engineering should not be confused with related specializations, such as Computer Science and Data Science, as it requires a different set of competencies and skills. Mapúa’s AI Engineering degree, for instance, uniquely blends disciplines focused on building intelligent systems. This highly specialized field encompasses advanced topics such as machine learning, robotics, and natural language processing, which are beyond the scope of traditional computer science, which focuses on programming, algorithms, and software development.
“As industries increasingly integrate AI to enhance efficiency, resilience, and innovation, there is a pressing need for engineers who are not only adept in core AI technologies but also grounded in ethical and socially responsive design,” he explained. “Mapúa’s AI Engineering program reflects its commitment to producing globally competitive graduates who can lead in areas such as smart cities, healthcare innovation, environmental sustainability, and disaster risk reduction—sectors that are particularly vital to national development and regional progress.”
AI engineering students will hone their skills in coding, mathematics, AI model development, ethical AI design, system integration, generative AI, AI governance, and responsible innovation, enabling them to steer its growth in a digital-first world.
The question is, what kind of person will thrive in a career in artificial intelligence? Dean Paglinawan said that these are the students who enjoy both math and computer science, are curious, analytical, and passionate about using technology to solve problems, and are keen to explore how machines learn and function and could thrive in the field. Creativity, adaptability, strong logical and critical thinking skills, and a love for coding and building also increase their aptitude.
“To our future innovators and trailblazers, it is with great pride that we open the doors to the first and only Bachelor of Science in Artificial Intelligence Engineering program in the Philippines. This pioneering program is not just a response to global trends—it is our bold move to lead the future of engineering education,” he said. “AI is transforming industries—from healthcare to finance, manufacturing to education—and the world needs engineers who not only understand the technology but can build it ethically, intelligently, and responsibly. We invite you to be part of this historic beginning. Join us, and together, let’s engineer the future with AI.”

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