Frequently Asked Questions
Computing and artificial intelligence are rapidly reshaping research, industry, education, and everyday life. By connecting people with deep expertise in AI to scholars across fields — from philosophy and ethics to medicine, business, and engineering — the college is designed to accelerate discovery, expand learning opportunities, and support practical and ethical applications of new technology.
As these technologies become more powerful and more widespread, society also faces important questions about trust, privacy, fairness, sustainability, and the future of work. A public university has a vital role to play in helping answer those questions through research, education, and innovation that serve the public good.
Naming a new college is never simple, and many faculty, staff, alumni, and students were consulted throughout the process.
A “College of Computing” is a common model at several peer universities, and computing is a broad domain that connects Computer Sciences, the Information School, and Statistics. At the same time, artificial intelligence is emerging from a subdiscipline into a broad force shaping research, education, and society.
After careful consideration, the name “College of Computing & Artificial Intelligence (CAI)” reflects the university’s longstanding strengths and its commitment to leading in our AI-driven future.
Our standard name is the College of Computing & Artificial Intelligence. After first reference in written communications, accepted shorthand may be used. Accepted shorthand includes:
- College of Computing & AI
- CAI (Pronounced “see-ay-eye”)
Improper shorthand includes:
- Pronouncing CAI like the Greek letter chi (“kai”)
- College of CAI
- CCAI
These naming standards help ensure the college is represented clearly and consistently across communications.
The college will prepare students for a changing workforce and create new opportunities through courses, certificates, majors, and degree programs.
It will also strengthen research and discovery across campus by connecting AI expertise with scholars in areas such as healthcare, engineering, business, agriculture, education, and the humanities.
In the spirit of the Wisconsin Idea, the college will help translate new ideas and discoveries into practical solutions that benefit communities, industries, and public institutions across Wisconsin and beyond.
The college will advance innovation while also addressing important questions involving trust, fairness, privacy, sustainability, and the future of work.
Universities have long helped develop transformative technologies. They also play an essential role in studying impacts, asking difficult questions and helping ensure new tools are developed and used responsibly.
UW–Madison’s approach is rooted in both excellence and responsibility: preparing students, supporting discovery, and helping to ensure technology benefits all people.
The launch is supported by $100 million in philanthropic commitments from the Catalyst Collective — a group of alumni, industry leaders, and corporate partners investing in the college’s early success — alongside more than $50 million in annual institutional investment, some of which will go to support 50 new faculty hires in the college. The college will be built with a disciplined, efficient operating model designed to maximize impact and long-term sustainability.
There are many ways to support the college, from philanthropic giving to industry partnerships. Support helps expand student opportunities, advance research, and accelerate the responsible development and application of computing and AI.
To explore giving or partnership opportunities, please contact us at info@cai.wisc.edu or make a gift.
Information for students
The College of Computing & Artificial Intelligence (CAI) launched on July 1, 2026, and includes the departments of Computer Sciences, Statistics, and the Information School. The college’s home is Morgridge Hall, which opened in fall 2025.
Academic programs (degrees, majors, and certificates) in these departments will not move into the new college until the 2027–28 academic year.
Students will continue to learn from the same outstanding faculty and take the same high-quality courses they know today, with additional opportunities — new courses, programs, and experiences — emerging as CAI takes shape. While some details are still being thoughtfully developed through the appropriate processes, students can expect strong advising, continuity, and even more options to support their academic paths.
If you start at UW–Madison in the 2026–27 academic year with a first choice major interest in computer sciences, data science, information science, and/or statistics, you will enter the College of Letters & Science.
Programs in Computer Sciences, Statistics, and the Information School are anticipated to transition to the College of Computing & Artificial Intelligence starting in the 2027–28 academic year.
All degrees are awarded by the University of Wisconsin–Madison and are confirmed by the school or college that the major is in. Diplomas list University of Wisconsin–Madison alongside the degree name (e.g., Bachelor of Science). Diplomas do not list the school or college that confirms the degree. If you declare one of these majors as an L&S student, your degree will be confirmed by the College of Letters & Science. If you declare one of these majors as a CAI student, your degree will be confirmed by the College of Computing & Artificial Intelligence.
We have not finalized whether degree or major requirements will change when these programs move to the College of Computing & Artificial Intelligence. We’ll share more information as plans are finalized. CAI degree programs are anticipated to become available for 2027-28.
You will always have the option to:
- Complete the requirements that were in place when you entered your degree and major, or
- Choose the newer set of requirements*, if available and aligned with your goals.
*We have not finalized if or how requirements will change. More information will be shared as plans are finalized. CAI degree programs are anticipated to become available for 2027-28.
There will be a period when the programs will be offered through both the College of Letters & Science and CAI. You can work with an academic advisor to decide which option best fits your interests and goals.
As degree programs become available (anticipated for 2027–28), we will share details about how new and continuing students can join or transition into these programs.