Anderson University will launch three new academic programs in fall 2026, expanding its curriculum to better serve both traditional and nontraditional students while responding to shifting workforce needs and student expectations.
The new offerings include a Bachelor of Science in artificial intelligence (on campus), a Bachelor of Arts in communication (on campus), and an Associate of Arts in leadership (fully online). Enrollment is now open for students planning to begin in fall 2026.
“These new programs reflect Anderson University’s commitment to aligning academic offerings with the students we are trying to serve,” said Courtney Taylor, provost of Anderson University. “As we see demographic shifts and changing expectations around credentials, it’s important that we create multiple pathways for students to pursue education that fits their lives, vocations, and goals.”
Taylor said higher education is seeing growing interest in associate degrees, certificates, and other completion markers alongside traditional four-year degrees.
“There’s a fragmentation in expectations about what types of credentials best serve individuals,” he said. “The bachelor’s degree will continue to be central for many students, but we’re also seeing increased value in associate degrees and targeted credentials that provide flexibility and momentum.”
Artificial intelligence program addresses emerging workforce needs
Anderson University is the first Council for Christian Colleges & Universities institution in Indiana to launch a bachelor’s degree in artificial intelligence.
“As we’ve seen over the past few years, artificial intelligence is advancing rapidly, with major developments happening roughly every seven months,” said Justin Lambright, chair of the Department of Computer Science & Mathematics. “It’s imperative that academic programs adapt so students are prepared for future careers.”
Lambright said the program is designed to prepare graduates not only with technical skills, but also with ethical discernment shaped by a Christ-centered worldview.
“As with technologies like nuclear power or gene editing, AI has the potential to be used for good or to cause harm,” he said, “Our graduates should enter the workforce having already wrestled with ethical questions surrounding AI, rather than encountering those challenges for the first time when their values are tested.”
Graduates may pursue careers as artificial intelligence engineers, machine learning engineers, data scientists, data engineers, software engineers, or researchers, Lambright said. Internships are required, and the university anticipates continued partnerships with industry, nonprofit, and ministry organizations.
Communication degree emphasizes professional and ministry preparation
The new Bachelor of Arts in communication is designed to prepare students for careers across industries while also supporting ministry-related callings.
“Soft skills enable effective collaboration, foster professional relationships and drive career advancement beyond technical expertise,” said Stefanie Leiter, chair of the Department of Humanities and associate professor of communication. “A résumé can list qualifications, but if a graduate cannot hold a professional conversation or write a clear email, it becomes difficult to interview well or secure a job.”
Leiter said the program takes a holistic approach that aligns with Anderson University’s mission of faith and service.
“From intercultural communication to media writing and communication campaigns, students graduate with a well-rounded education that pairs well with any major,” she said. “Everyone communicates professionally, but studying communication allows students to stand out as trained, effective communicators.”
She also emphasized the advantages of a smaller institution.
“Students are not just numbers,” Leiter said. “They are known by name and regularly interact with faculty through advising, office hours, and chapel. The curriculum is intentionally reviewed to ensure it meets current workplace needs.”
Online leadership degree expands access for adult learners
The Associate of Arts in leadership, offered fully online, is designed for adult learners, working professionals, and students returning to education after time away.
“Expanding online offerings reflects our mission to educate students for lives of faith, service, and leadership while responding to the realities of today’s learners,” said Allison Eddleman, MBA, department chair and assistant professor of management in the Falls School of Business.
Eddleman said the program allows students to balance academic work with professional and family responsibilities while engaging in coursework focused on leadership, ethical decision-making, communication, and business fundamentals.
“The program is designed to function both as a meaningful standalone credential and as a clear pathway into a bachelor’s degree at Anderson University,” she said. “For many students, it serves as an accessible entry point into higher education, helping them build confidence and academic momentum.”
Mission alignment across programs
Taylor said all three programs align with the university’s Faithful Campus framework, which emphasizes mission-driven stewardship, aligned programming, partnerships, and student success.
“Our goal is to help students pursue educational pathways that fit where they are in life,” Taylor said. “Whether that’s an associate degree, a bachelor’s degree, or further graduate study, we want to support students in preparing for lives of purpose, leadership, and service.”
More information about the new programs is available at anderson.edu.