De Anza College Launches Silicon Valley’s First Associate Degree in Applied Artificial Intelligence
Six New AI Credentials Among More Than 20 New Programs Across Technology, Business, the Arts and the Humanities Launching in Fall 2026
As artificial intelligence reshapes industries and the workforce, De Anza College is launching Silicon Valley’s first Associate in Science degree in Applied Artificial Intelligence, along with six new AI-focused credentials and more than 20 additional new degree and certificate programs this fall.
The new AI programs form a clear, stackable pathway designed for students at any starting
point. Those with no prior background in coding or data science can begin with either
a credit or no-cost noncredit foundational certificate covering basic AI concepts
and methodologies. From there, students can advance through technical certificates
focused on machine learning, deep learning, natural language processing, prompt engineering,
and AI agents, and be transfer-ready to continue their studies at a four-year institution.
They can also earn an Associate in Science degree, preparing them for entry-level
roles or transfer.
In addition to the academic pathway, De Anza is launching noncredit programs tailored for working professionals and the broader workforce. The Applying AI at Work certificate is a flexible program focused on strategic thinking and AI use in the workplace. The AI in Business certificate specializes in providing practical skills in generative AI tools for applications like marketing, accounting, human resources, and analytics.
The new offerings reflect De Anza’s recognition that AI is one of the defining technologies of our time, said Ram Subramaniam, vice president of Instruction.
“We believe that we need to actively provide our students with the knowledge and training to make informed choices about engaging with AI,” Subramaniam said. “These programs are directly aligned with our institutional core competencies of information literacy, personal responsibility, and critical thinking.”
For students in the heart of Silicon Valley, the timing could not be better: Employment for data scientists is projected to grow 41.7 percent through 2033, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
To ensure students build credentials recognized across Silicon Valley and beyond, the curriculum includes UC/CSU-transferable courses and features a strong emphasis on responsible AI development and ethical practice. These programs give students multiple entry points to build practical and ethical AI skills they can apply across disciplines and in the workplace.
New Programs Across Technology, Business, the Arts and the Humanities
New offerings include two Associate in Science degrees: Automotive Service and Repair, and Engineering with an electrical engineering track for students preparing to transfer into four-year programs.
Additionally, De Anza has added five mathematics certificates: applied mathematics, pure mathematics, statistics, mathematics for business and social sciences, and elementary mathematics education.
Two new transfer-focused associate degrees, in music and child and adolescent development, guarantee CSU admission for students who complete the degree. Students pursuing language and communication careers can enroll in new programs in Mandarin translation and interpretation, English as a Second Language oral communication, and writing and reading skills for career and college success. New noncredit certificates in bookkeeping and product management address high-demand entry-level roles in business and technology. Also, newly available this fall are programs in animated film, professional photography, journalism, nonprofit management, and community impact.
The new programs reflect De Anza’s commitment to supporting all students, whether they are pursuing university transfer, career advancement, workforce training, or lifelong learning.
Applications for fall 2026 at De Anza are open now, and registration begins July 27.
(Posted on May. 21, 2026)