Artificial Intelligence Electives & Specialization FAQ
Questions and answers about the new Artificial Intelligence specialization offered in the Master of Science in Information Management program:
General Questions
Q: Why is the MSIM program updating its specialized coursework in artificial intelligence?
Expanding AI-specific coursework for MSIM’s online students is part of the Information School’s commitment to ensuring that MSIM graduates remain effective leaders in the age of AI. Updates to all residential and online courses offered and their respective learning objectives are part of the Information School’s ongoing efforts to evolve the MSIM curriculum to align with current organizational needs, trends and practices.
Q: How technical is the AI specialization?
Students from all backgrounds will be able to participate in the AI specialization moving forward. The newly redesigned three-course sequence is designed to prepare MSIM students to be effective AI leaders who can bridge technical capabilities and organizational value. While it is critical to understand technical concepts to guide management and strategic decision-making, hands-on assignments will deploy low-code tools and frameworks (rather than code-based solutions) to design, deploy and manage AI solutions.
Q: Can I still learn about artificial intelligence within the MSIM program without specializing in AI?
Yes! MSIM students are encouraged to take electives that align with their goals and interests. For many, this results in focusing their elective coursework in one or two areas of specialization, but it’s also possible to take electives across specialization areas to customize the degree.
In addition to AI-focused electives, all core courses taught to online and residential MSIM students include modules and learning outcomes connected to artificial intelligence. Whether it relates to the ethics of using AI individually or in an organization, analyzing the risks and rewards of implementing AI in an organization, or the use of AI to answer research questions in a robust manner, all MSIM graduates will have a solid foundation in AI.
Q: I want to learn as much as I possibly can about how AI is transforming information management; what can I do beyond completing the three courses for the specialization?
The MSIM program offers significant opportunities for motivated students to pursue their interests. Online and residential students who are curious about AI are encouraged to integrate this interest into class assignments and projects as it makes sense within the specific course requirements. Students are also able to seek out or create Capstone projects, practica, internships or independent studies that allow them to explore these interests with the support of Information School faculty and industry partners.
Prospective Students
Q: I'm a prospective MSIM student; what do I need to know?
As of spring 2026, all prospective MSIM students, regardless of modality, can select Artificial Intelligence as one of their choices in specialization during admissions. If you were recently admitted for spring 2026 (online), check your email for instructions on requesting the specialization.
Q: I’m trying to decide between online and residential — is the specialization the same for the two modalities?
Yes, all online and residential students joining the program in spring 2026 or later will have access to an identical three-course sequence comprising the AI specialization. However, availability of specializations is only one aspect of finding your fit. Prospective students are encouraged to carefully consider which modality is the best fit for their learning style, needs and priorities.
Q: What AI classes are being offered this year for MSIM students (and what does each cover)?
The AI electives available to you during the 2025-26 academic year depend on your mode of study. Please see the AI specialization page and course schedules for details.
Q: I’ve already applied for spring 2026 (online) but now I want to change my specialization selection or degree track. What should I do?
If you have already submitted their application to be considered for admission into the spring 2026 online cohorts and wish to opt into the AI specialization, please check your email for instructions about how to update your specialization selection.
If you applied for the Early-Career Accelerated track and are now interested in the Early-Career track so that you can broaden your degree to include courses in AI along with a second area of specialization, please reach out to iask@uw.edu.
Q: I’ve already started or submitted my application for the fall 2026 (residential) cohorts, but would prefer to study online now that the AI specialization is available online; can I change modalities?
If you have not yet submitted your application, you can update your program selection to the online option.
If you have submitted your application, please contact our admissions team at iask@uw.edu.
Current Students
Q: I’m a current MSIM student; how do I change my specialization to AI?
Students are permitted to request a specialization change once per academic year, and they can find the instructions to request that change in the MSIM handbook in Canvas.
Q: I’m a current residential student and will have only taken one or two AI electives by the end of this year. What do I need to do to complete the specialization next year?
Residential MSIM students who complete three of the AI elective courses offered during their time at the Information School will be considered as finished with the specialization. We are offering five courses over the 2025-26 academic year and will offer three courses in the 2026-27 academic year. You are not required to take all the AI classes to complete the specialization. We ask you to complete no more than three courses to preserve room for your peers.
Q: I was hoping to take a specific (residential) AI course next year. Will this be possible?
Maybe, depending on the course and your learning modality. Of the five AI courses offered this year for residential students, three are expected to be offered in academic year 2026-27: Implementing and Managing Generative Artificial Intelligence Systems (will be available to online and residential students), Building and Applying Large Language Models (residential only), and Responsible AI (residential only). New course offerings will be added as the fast-changing needs of organizations shift and faculty expertise develops.
Q: I’m a current online MSIM student and I’m very interested in AI. I have met most of my degree requirements. Should I consider delaying my graduation to engage with the new specialization?
Please set up an appointment with your academic advisor to discuss your goals and options. Your advisor can work with you on how to incorporate the various AI courses into your academic journey towards an Information Management degree.