AI Education Programs in Texas Schools
- Charles Albanese
- 2 days ago
- 8 min read
AI schools in Texas are transforming education at every level, from elementary classrooms to world-renowned universities. As demand for AI skills grows nationwide, Texas is establishing itself as a leader in AI education and innovation.
These programs aren't just about coding or robotics. They're reshaping how teachers teach, and how schools operate.
In a notable development, the Concord Consortium's AI Across the Curriculum initiative is set to pilot an AI education program in Texas virtual schools. Starting in the summer of 2025, eight teachers will be trained to implement the program, reaching 800 students in the 2025–26 academic year. This pilot aims to integrate AI learning into various subjects.
Keeping this in mind, this article takes you through the AI education programs in Texas schools and how they’re helping educators and institutions.
AI Education in Texas
Texas is rapidly becoming a national leader in AI education, driven by a growing demand for skilled professionals and a strong network of research-oriented universities. Across Texas, renowned universities are integrating AI into their curricula.
These institutions are teaching the technical foundations of AI and are exploring its ethical, social, and business implications. Among the most prominent contributors to AI education in the state are:
University of Texas at Austin
The University of Texas at Austin is a recognized powerhouse in AI research and education. Home to the Artificial Intelligence Laboratory within its Department of Computer Science, UT Austin offers a wide range of AI-related courses, from Natural Language Processing (NLP) to Machine Learning (ML).
The university expanded its AI & Society initiative to promote interdisciplinary research on the ethical and societal impacts of AI. Students also gain access to startup support and industry connections through the Texas Innovation Center, bridging the gap between research and real-world applications.
Texas A&M University
Texas A&M University offers AI education through the Institute of Data Science and the Department of Computer Science and Engineering. The university provides specialized undergraduate and graduate tracks focused on deep learning, computer vision, and intelligent systems.
Texas A&M introduced a new interdisciplinary AI certificate program designed to support students across various majors, ranging from engineering and agriculture to health sciences, highlighting the university’s commitment to applied AI across diverse sectors.
Southern Methodist University
Southern Methodist University (SMU) in Dallas offers a modern and industry-aligned AI curriculum through its Lyle School of Engineering. Emphasizing both technical and ethical dimensions of AI, SMU prepares students with practical skills in data analytics, ML, and human-centered design.
Types of AI Degree Programs in Texas Schools
As AI becomes a central part of the technological future, Texas schools are stepping up to ensure students can lead. From early exposure to foundational AI concepts to more advanced coursework in high school, Texas schools are integrating AI into their curricula at various levels.
1. Introduction to AI (Elementary and Middle School)
In many Texas school districts, AI education begins at an early age, keeping elementary and middle school students engaged through various activities. These programs often focus on developing students’ basic coding skills, understanding algorithms, and exploring the world of robotics.
2. Robotics and AI Integration (Middle and High School)
As students progress to middle and high school, AI education becomes more hands-on and integrated with robotics. These programs help teachers introduce practical skills to students in terms of building and programming robots, as well as ML and data science.
3. Specialized AI and Data Science Electives (High School)
For high school students, some Texas schools have trained teachers to teach specialized electives in AI, ML, and data science. These courses focus on a comprehensive understanding of AI technologies and their practical applications.
4. AI Competitions and Extracurricular Activities
To further engage students, many Texas schools offer AI-related competitions and extracurricular activities. These opportunities allow students to apply what they've learned in a creative and competitive environment, often leading to exciting prizes and career opportunities.
Notable AI Programs at Texas Universities
Texas is home to several top-tier universities. These institutions offer a variety of AI-focused programs. Here's a look at some of the most notable AI programs across Texas universities:
1. University of Texas at Austin – UT Computer Science AI Program
UT Austin consistently ranks among the best public universities for computer science and AI. Its Machine Learning Laboratory and Artificial Intelligence Laboratory are nationally recognized for research in areas like deep learning, NLP, and robotics.
Notable Features: Access to top faculty, interdisciplinary research, and partnerships with companies like IBM and Dell.
Degrees Offered: BS, MS, and Ph.D. with AI/ML specializations.
2. Texas A&M University – AI in Engineering and Computer Science
Texas A&M’s AI programs are integrated within its Department of Computer Science and Engineering, offering strong foundations in ML, robotics, and human-computer interaction. The university is also known for its work in AI ethics and applications in agriculture, cybersecurity, and autonomous systems.
Notable Features: Research initiatives like the Center for Remote Health Technologies and Systems and AI-focused labs.
Degrees Offered: BS, MS, and Ph.D. with AI and robotics tracks.
3. Southern Methodist University (SMU) – AI and Data Science Innovation
SMU offers specialized programs in AI through its Lyle School of Engineering. The university is known for combining AI with fields like cybersecurity, business analytics, and ethics. SMU's AI and Machine Learning Lab provides students hands-on experience with real-world projects.
Notable Features: Small class sizes, industry partnerships, and a strong focus on ethical AI.
Degrees Offered: MS in Computer Science with AI focus, Ph.D. in Computer Science, and professional certificates.
4. University of Texas at Dallas – Interdisciplinary AI Programs
UT Dallas offers interdisciplinary AI programs through its Erik Jonsson School of Engineering and Computer Science. Students can choose concentrations in data science, AI, and ML. The university actively collaborates with industry leaders to align its curriculum with current AI trends and workforce needs.
Notable Features: Strong research output, AI-focused student organizations, and co-op opportunities.
Degrees Offered: BS, MS, Ph.D. in Computer Science and related disciplines.
5. Rice University – AI Research and Applications
While Rice is a smaller private institution, it punches above its weight in AI research. Its Ken Kennedy Institute is at the forefront of AI, ML, and high-performance computing. Rice emphasizes interdisciplinary research, particularly in applying AI to healthcare, bioinformatics, and energy.
Notable Features: Strong faculty-to-student ratio, hands-on research, and high placement in Ph.D. programs and tech careers.
Degrees Offered: BS, MS, and Ph.D. in Computer Science with AI emphasis.
Online AI Degree Opportunities
Texas universities offer programs catering to working professionals, remote learners, and students seeking a more adaptable learning environment without compromising the quality of education.
Below are some of the top online AI degree and certificate options offered by Texas institutions.
1. University of Texas at Austin – Online Master’s in Artificial Intelligence
UT Austin offers a fully online Master of Science in Artificial Intelligence (MSAI) in collaboration with edX. Designed for professionals with a background in computer science or engineering, the program focuses on core AI concepts such as deep learning, neural networks, NLP, and data ethics.
2. Texas A&M University – Online Courses in AI and Machine Learning
Texas A&M offers several online graduate-level courses and certifications in AI, data science, and ML through its Engineering Extension Service and Continuing Education programs. While not a full degree, these stackable credentials allow students to upskill in focused areas of AI.
3. Southern Methodist University (SMU) – Online Master’s in Data Science with AI Track
SMU offers an Online Master of Science in Data Science that includes an optional AI and ML track. This program equips students with the skills to build intelligent systems and analyze large-scale data sets using AI algorithms.
4. University of Texas at Dallas – AI and Data Science Certificates
UT Dallas offers online professional education programs and micro-credentials in AI, ML, and data science. These programs are ideal for working adults who want to deepen their understanding of AI without committing to a full degree program.
5. Lamar University – Online Bachelor’s in Computer Science with AI Coursework
For undergraduates, Lamar University provides an online Bachelor of Science in Computer Science that allows students to take AI and ML electives. The program is fully online and provides a strong technical foundation in programming, algorithms, and systems development.
Development of Faculty and Curriculum for AI
As AI becomes increasingly embedded in the fabric of modern life, Texas educational institutions are making strategic investments to build the capacity of faculty and modernize AI curricula. These efforts ensure that students gain technical proficiency and understand the ethical, social, and interdisciplinary dimensions of AI.
1. Upskilling Faculty for AI Instruction
Texas universities and community colleges are recognizing that successful AI education starts with well-prepared educators. Through state-supported initiatives like the Adapting to Innovation (AI) Initiative by the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board (THECB), faculty across the state are receiving specialized training to:
Integrate generative AI tools into teaching and research
Stay current with emerging AI technologies and methodologies
Foster responsible and ethical AI use in academic settings
Many institutions now host AI faculty development workshops, sponsor certifications in data science and machine learning, and encourage participation in national AI educator forums.
2. Modernizing Curriculum with Industry-Relevant Content
Curriculum development in Texas AI programs is increasingly industry-aligned, emphasizing both foundational theory and real-world applications. Universities are embedding AI modules across a range of disciplines, from computer science to healthcare, business, and education, ensuring graduates are AI-literate regardless of major.
Key curriculum innovations include:
Project-based learning with real datasets and industry tools
Cross-disciplinary electives such as AI for Business, AI in Public Policy, and AI Ethics
Capstone projects and internships co-designed with employers to simulate workplace scenarios
For example, the University of Texas at Austin and Texas A&M University have updated their undergraduate and graduate AI programs to include modules in explainable AI, AI model auditing, and human-AI collaboration.
3. Collaborations and Curriculum Sharing Across Institutions
To scale AI education equitably across Texas, many institutions are engaging in cross-campus collaborations and open curriculum initiatives. The Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board facilitates:
Consortia of AI educators who co-develop and share curriculum resources
Microcredential frameworks to standardize AI education across public colleges
AI teaching toolkits that include syllabi, case studies, and assessment models
These efforts promote consistency, reduce redundancy, and allow smaller or rural colleges to offer high-quality AI instruction without starting from scratch.
Conclusion
Texas is rapidly emerging as a national hub for AI education, blending academic excellence with forward-looking initiatives that prepare students for the evolving demands of the AI-driven workforce.
From top-tier universities offering specialized degree programs to community colleges and K-12 initiatives introducing AI basics, Texas is creating a comprehensive ecosystem for AI literacy. These AI schools in Texas prepare students and educators alike for a rapidly evolving, AI-driven economy.
Ready to bring AI into your teaching methodology? The School House Anywhere (TSHA) can help!
TSHA offers the expertise and resources you need to develop a thriving AI program that equips students with the skills for tomorrow's tech-driven world.
Here's how TSHA can help you implement AI education effectively:
Tools for AI Instruction: TSHA offers a suite of resources, including industry-standard tools and software, that help you introduce AI concepts in a way that's engaging and relevant.
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End-to-End Support: From curriculum design to teacher training, TSHA offers full support for integrating AI into your school's infrastructure. Whether you’re just starting or enhancing an existing program, you'll have the resources to lead your school into the future.
Ready to bring AI education to your school?
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