Loyola Expands AI Education with New Minors, Labs, and Ethical Focus
Since AI was incorporated in then-Provost Margaret Callahan’s 2023 academic integrity statement, its usage at Loyola has notably increased. This growth is attributed to the addition of two minors in the business school starting in fall 2025, alongside individual courses on the subject, the creation of the Loyola AI Society (LAIS), and the establishment of an AI lab.
Introduction of Microsoft Copilot
In a significant move, Loyola has introduced Microsoft Copilot, an AI-powered assistant for student use. This tool helps users summarize and refine content as well as analyze data, according to the Information Technology Services (ITS) website. In February, ITS will also host informational webinars on the effective use of Copilot.
Generative AI Feature Catalog
The Generative AI Feature Catalog was created by the Learning Technologies and Innovation team and posted on the ITS website in May. It details various AI tools the school funds, including Gradescope, Minitab, NVIVO, Elai, Piazza, Turnitin, and Zoom. This catalog will be updated in late Spring 2026.
The university states, “Because students, faculty, and staff already use these tools daily for coursework, research, and administrative work, providing Copilot allows the university to explore AI in a secure, supported, and responsible way.” The goals are to enhance efficiency, reduce routine tasks, and build familiarity with AI technologies students will increasingly encounter in their academic and professional lives.
Impact of Applied AI Minor
Steven Keith Platt, executive lecturer for applied AI, has been instrumental in developing the business of applied AI minor, which has enrolled 62 students. The minor debuted in fall 2025 and has rapidly gained popularity. Platt emphasizes that it significantly improves students’ career prospects: “It’s just having a massive impact on business jobs and careers.”
Third-year finance major Jonathan Takyi, who worked at the Lab for Applied AI over the summer, added the minor due to the skills he acquired. He noted that employers appreciate candidates with an AI minor, as “all their future businesses… are gonna involve some sort of AI.”
Understanding AI and Its Ethics
Platt stresses the importance of understanding AI tools. Before allowing Takyi to work with the lab, he required him to read a book on the ethics of AI. Platt integrates AI usage in his classes, expecting students to demonstrate comprehension through hands-on proofs. “Just because you use ChatGPT doesn’t make you an AI expert,” he states.
George Thiruvathukal, professor and department chairperson of computer science, has strongly advocated for AI education and helped push for the new minors. Another minor, titled artificial intelligence and human flourishing, is planned to launch in fall 2026 as a joint program between the computer science and philosophy departments. This new offering will include basic computing AI courses, providing a pathway for humanities students to acquire technological skills while understanding ethical and responsible AI uses.
Environmental Considerations
AI technologies have significant environmental impacts, particularly due to the energy demands of data centers. While Platt acknowledges these concerns, he emphasizes that environmental issues lie outside his expertise. Efforts are underway to power data centers more sustainably, with hopes pinned on nuclear energy.
Future Directions and Ethical Decision-Making
Adjunct professor Sophie Vodvarka teaches “Ethics and Communication,” discussing the ethical implications of AI. She encourages independent decision-making among students regarding AI technologies. Vodvarka anticipates Loyola will incorporate more AI-related courses and emphasizes aligning AI education with the university’s Jesuit social justice mission.
Third-year neuroscience major Cordelia De La Fuente, vice president of operations in LAIS, believes understanding AI is becoming crucial in the workplace. “It’s not really going to replace you, but somebody who knows how to use it is going to replace you,” she cautions. The business of applied AI minor requires an Ethics in Business class, highlighting the importance of ethical considerations in AI usage.
De La Fuente asserts the AI business ethics class is vital for preparing students to make informed decisions about AI technologies’ implications in their careers.
