News Summary
San Diego State University and the University of San Diego are revitalizing their MBA programs to integrate artificial intelligence. As businesses increase AI adoption, these institutions focus on equipping future leaders with skills in ethical AI usage and innovative applications. New initiatives, such as dedicated AI centers and entrepreneurial labs, are enhancing the educational experience, preparing students to navigate challenges posed by AI while fostering innovation and responsible practices.
San Diego is witnessing a significant shift in its business education landscape, as local universities, particularly San Diego State University (SDSU) and the University of San Diego (USD), adapt their MBA programs to meet the increasing relevance of artificial intelligence (AI) in the workplace. As of March 2025, a recent report indicates that 71% of businesses have integrated generative AI into at least one function, up from 53% just two years prior, reflecting AI’s rapid growth and adoption.
With the explosion in AI usage over the past few years, educators recognize the need to equip future business leaders with essential skills that incorporate AI into various industries. Dean of the Fowler College of Business at SDSU, Dan Moshavi, highlights the importance of merging human judgment with AI insights, thereby preparing students to tackle the evolving challenges of the business world.
Recognizing the practical applications of AI, USD’s Knauss School of Business has updated its curriculum to include AI-focused initiatives aimed at fostering innovation. The school emphasizes teaching responsible AI use, aiming to cultivate leaders who can navigate the ethical implications of this technology and drive positive change in their respective fields.
New initiatives, such as the James Silberrad Brown Center for Artificial Intelligence inaugurated at SDSU in 2023, focus on advancing AI education and research. This center seeks to support students in understanding and utilizing AI tools effectively. Students are encouraged to integrate AI into their projects, particularly in capstone consulting work, facilitating hands-on experience in real-world applications.
USD has introduced courses like the Torero Venture Labs, where MBA candidates explore AI entrepreneurship. Students actively work on projects, some of which evolve into startups during the course. This practical approach strengthens their understanding of AI’s impact on business operations and innovations.
Part-time MBA candidate Nicole Guinta, who selected USD’s program specifically for its AI-focused coursework, has described her educational journey as invaluable, particularly as she develops her startup concept for an AI-powered travel platform. This hands-on learning method fosters greater comprehension of the opportunities and challenges that AI presents in the business landscape.
Both SDSU and USD acknowledge the concerns about job displacement due to AI advancements. However, the general sentiment among educators is that the long-term benefits of AI—such as new value creation and efficiencies—outweigh these challenges. At USD, discussions in Kedia’s classes reveal that students see more potential in AI’s positive impacts than risks, promoting an environment of open dialogue about its applications.
Alongside curricular advancements, SDSU is committed to ethical practices surrounding AI usage. The university has established generative AI guidelines to ensure responsible practices among both faculty and students. Additionally, the institution has introduced the SDSU Academic Applications of Artificial Intelligence micro-credential program, which aims to enhance AI learning opportunities for the broader campus community.
The ongoing efforts by these San Diego universities reflect a proactive approach to preparing business students for a future increasingly intertwined with AI technology. By integrating AI education into their programs, SDSU and USD are shaping a new generation of leaders equipped to navigate a landscape where AI is becoming an integral part of the business ecosystem.
In conclusion, as AI continues to redefine various industries, education systems in San Diego are stepping up to ensure that their current and future business leaders are well-prepared to harness this technology’s full potential responsibly and ethically.
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- San Diego Business Journal: Business Education in the Age of Technology
- Healio: Aimed25 Conference Will Serve Entire Ecosystem of AI and Health Care
- PR Newswire: InfoGov World Conference and AI World Conference Join Forces
- Poets & Quants: The Perfect Business School Program Is a Needle in a Haystack but AI Is a Magnet
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- Wikipedia: Artificial Intelligence
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- Encyclopedia Britannica: Artificial Intelligence
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Author: STAFF HERE CORONADO
The Coronado Staff Writer represents the experienced team at HERECoronado.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Coronado, San Diego County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Coronado Island Film Festival, productions at Lamb’s Players Theatre, community workshops at John D. Spreckels Center, and iconic celebrations at Hotel del Coronado. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Coronado Chamber of Commerce and Visit Coronado, plus leading businesses in hospitality, dining, and tourism that drive the local economy. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERESanDiego.com, HEREHuntingtonBeach.com, HERELongBeach.com, and HERELosAngeles.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Southern California's dynamic landscape.
