Appalachian State University was included on a list of universities incorporating AI into the business school curriculum and helping students lead in an AI-enabled world.
The universities are accredited by AACSB International, the world’s largest and most recognized specialized accreditor for business schools. App State has been accredited by AACSB for nearly 50 years.
According to the article by Anca C. Mico, Beyond STEM—Making Leadership ‘Irreplaceably Human,' the universities investing in infrastructure, curriculum, and faculty are ensuring "that graduates can harness AI responsibly while emphasizing human-centered skills."
App State's Walker College of Business launched AI tracks in its MBA and MS in Applied Data Analytics programs in 2025.
"These institutions are shaping a future where AI augments rather than replaces human leadership," noted Mico. "In a world where machines can increasingly do what people do, the leaders who thrive won’t be the ones who can code the best algorithms, they’ll be the ones who can collaborate with AI while remaining authentically, irreplaceably human."
“As one of the first institutions in the Carolinas to offer AI-focused graduate business concentrations, the Walker College of Business is committed to providing transformational educational experiences to students,” said Walker College Dean Sandra Vannoy. “We always strive to align opportunities with industry demand and keep our curriculum on pace with technological advancements.”
This commitment to preparing students for a tech-driven future extends beyond the classroom. The college has expanded its offerings in cyberesecurity, and earlier this year App State hosted its Cyber Summit, underscoring the university’s AI innovation and cybersecurity awareness to ensure graduates can lead responsibly in an increasingly digital world.
“AI isn’t going to take your job,” said Cyber Summit speaker Aaron Rose, Check Point Software Technologies security architect. " Humans who effectively use AI will."
The Walker College is focused on helping students from classrooms to careers succeed, due in part to the innovative curriculum, career-focused programming, internship and job placement support from Business Career Services in the Truist Student Leadership Center, and the strength of the Walker College Network.
AI Master’s Degree Tracks at App State
Develop strategic and ethical leadership in AI by exploring its role in decision-making, innovation and governance across business functions in the App State MBA and the MS in Applied Data Analytics programs.
In the News: Walker College of Business is helping students lead in an AI-enabled world
Grad students in App State's Walker College