The University of Southampton will become the UK's first to unveil essential AI training for undergraduates, with courses introduced for all students this year.
This landmark initiative reflects Southampton's commitment to preparing its students for a future where artificial intelligence will reshape many aspects of work, research and society.
Every undergraduate will complete a learning course focused on AI skills, ethics and creativity, going beyond basic skills to ensure they are fluent in using AI tools effectively and responsibly.
Building on this foundation, students will then engage with discipline-specific applications of AI, embedding practical and ethical use across all fields of study, from engineering and medicine to the arts and humanities.
The initiative will also include learning opportunities such as AI hackathons, prototype workshops, and industry-led projects, equipping students to be creators, not just consumers, of AI technologies.
Professor Mark E. Smith, President and Vice-Chancellor, said: "AI is transforming the way we live, work, and learn. Southampton is a global leader in responsible AI research, and by signalling the importance of AI fluency, we are ensuring our graduates have the critical skills and ethical understanding to thrive and lead in this new era."
AI literacy modules highlight Southampton's pioneering reputation in this area. Last year the University was one of only nine to be chosen by the UK government to lead the new Spärck AI scholarships, supporting those with exceptional talent with fully funded master's degrees.
UK AI Minister Kanishka Narayan said: "AI is moving fast and people will increasingly need the confidence and skills to use it in their everyday work. That is why initiatives like this by the University of Southampton are so important - they help ensure students aren't just using AI tools, but understanding them, questioning them and shaping how they're deployed in the real world.
"The Government is also opening up these opportunities with free AI courses available for all adults, as part of our plans to upskill 10 million UK workers by 2030. By investing in people's skills at every level, we're making sure the UK can lead the way in using AI safely and for the benefit of everyone."
Dame Wendy Hall, Regius Professor of Computer Science at the University of Southampton, added: "It is vital that our graduates not only understand the technology but are equipped to shape its future responsibly. This initiative positions Southampton at the forefront of education, empowering students to become ethical leaders and innovators in AI."
Dr Giles Carden, Chief Strategy Officer and Chief of Staff, said: "AI is the most significant external force reshaping the global economy and it is impacting graduate employment. Embedding AI fluency into our curriculum is central to the University's strategy and our highest priority is to prepare graduates to secure successful careers in an AI-driven world of work."
The University will work closely with industry partners and academic experts to ensure the course content remains at the cutting edge of technological and societal developments.
