Above Image: Students in Howard's Silicon Design and Validation Laboratory. Photo by Heaven Brown.

As industries evolve and workforce demands shift, Howard University’s College of Engineering and Architecture (CEA) is introducing three innovative academic pathways designed to prepare students for emerging opportunities in technology, infrastructure, and engineering management.   

Beginning in Fall 2026, students will have access to a new university-wide Fundamentals of Artificial Intelligence Certificate, a construction engineering management minor program, and a 4+1 accelerated dual-degree program allowing students to earn both a bachelor’s and a master’s degree in computer engineering with a concentration in chip design and validation in five years. Together, these offerings reflect Howard’s commitment to innovation, interdisciplinary learning, and preparing graduates to excel in rapidly changing fields. 

“Innovation is at the heart of our college, ” said Kimberly L. Jones, Ph.D., dean and alumna of the Howard University College of Engineering and Architecture. "By launching programs in artificial intelligence, construction engineering management, and semiconductor design, we are responding to critical industry needs while positioning our students to become leaders in fields that will drive technological advancement, economic growth, and societal progress for years to come."

Preparing Every Bison for an AI-Driven Future 

Artificial intelligence is increasingly transforming every sector of society. To ensure Howard students are prepared to engage thoughtfully and responsibly with these technologies, the university is launching the Fundamentals of Artificial Intelligence Certificate, an interdisciplinary program open to undergraduate students from all majors, regardless of prior technical experience. 

The nine-credit certificate combines foundational AI concepts with ethical and practical applications. Students will complete courses introducing artificial intelligence tools and techniques, explore ethical and responsible AI practices, and apply AI concepts within their own disciplines through specialized coursework offered across the university.  

Aligned with Howard University’s broader AI Initiative, the program is designed to ensure that graduates can understand, apply, evaluate, and responsibly engage with AI technologies in academic, professional, and societal contexts. Student learning outcomes include developing foundational knowledge of AI, applying AI tools across disciplines, evaluating AI systems, and addressing critical issues related to ethics, accountability, fairness, privacy, safety, and security.  

Building Future Leaders in Construction and Infrastructure 

CEA is also launching a minor in construction engineering management (CEM), creating a new pathway for students interested in the intersection of engineering, architecture, project delivery, and construction management. The minor responds to growing industry demand for professionals who can manage complex construction projects while bridging technical expertise and management skills. 

The interdisciplinary program draws upon the strengths of Howard’s architecture and civil engineering programs, while incorporating key competencies such as virtual building modeling, scheduling, cost estimating, contract administration, risk management, safety, and construction technologies. 

Students pursuing degrees in architecture or civil engineering will be able to complement their existing studies with practical knowledge of construction management and project execution, broadening their career options and professional versatility. 

Located in one of the nation’s most active construction and infrastructure markets, Howard is uniquely positioned to connect students with internship opportunities, site visits, and professional networks that bring classroom learning to life. The minor also serves as a foundational step towards CEA’s planned bachelor’s degree proposal in construction engineering management. 

The program reflects Howard’s continuing efforts to align academic offerings with workforce needs while creating new opportunities for students interested in shaping the built environment. 

Accelerating Careers in Semiconductor and Chip Design 

As the semiconductor industry continues to expand and play a critical role in national innovation and economic competitiveness, Howard is creating new opportunities for students to enter the field. 

The innovative 4+1 accelerated dual-degree program in computer engineering with a concentration in chip design and validation program enables students to earn both a bachelor’s and a master’s degree in computer engineering in just five years. 

Housed within the Silicon Design and Validation Laboratory, the program combines advanced coursework, research experience, and hands-on technical training focused on semiconductor design, microelectronics, and chip validation. Students will gain experience working with industry-standard tools while participating in real-world projects and receiving mentorship from professionals in the field. 

Among its key benefits are the opportunity to earn two degrees in five years, gain specialized expertise in chip design and validation, engage in graduate-level research, and accelerate pathways to leadership in advanced technology industries. 

Together, these three new programs represent a significant investment in Howard students and the future of engineering, technology, and innovation. Whether students are interested in understanding the societal implications of artificial intelligence, managing the construction projects that will shape tomorrow’s cities, or designing the semiconductor technologies that power modern life, CEA’s newest academic offerings provide pathways to leadership in high-impact fields.