SINGAPORE – The Singapore University of Technology and Design (SUTD) is embarking on a transformative journey with a $50 million investment aimed at creating a new specialization that melds design and artificial intelligence (AI). Known primarily as a design institution, SUTD's venture into AI comes in response to the growing need for interdisciplinary skills that cater to the evolving demands of industries worldwide.

A significant portion of this investment will be allocated over the next three to five years toward the development of an in-house AI platform. This innovative platform is designed to exhibit “independent thought,” enabling it to provide constructive feedback and insights to its human collaborators, thereby enhancing teamwork and productivity.

As part of the initiative, undergraduate students will be required to take a foundational course in design AI, establishing a strong starting point for their future endeavors. Additionally, SUTD will introduce new minors focused on AI, further diversifying the educational options available to students.

Postgraduate students will also benefit, with the launch of a master’s program in design AI set for September 2025. Participants in this program will have the unique opportunity to engage in real-world projects in collaboration with industry partners, thus ensuring their education is both practical and relevant.

In an exclusive interview with The Straits Times, SUTD president Phoon Kok Kwang outlined the university's vision for integrating AI into its curriculum, emphasizing the importance of fostering effective interactions between humans and AI. “Our aim is to develop AI that not only enhances but also complements human abilities,” he stated. This initiative is crucial as it prepares students for a future where collaboration with AI will be integral to innovation and problem-solving processes.

Since the introduction of the Design and Artificial Intelligence (DAI) program in 2022, the university has witnessed substantial growth. The first cohort of 30 graduates is set to complete their degree in May 2024, with enrollment numbers rising steadily from 34 students in 2022 to 50 anticipated for 2024. The DAI curriculum equips students with a rich understanding of user interface design, data-driven methodologies, and various AI technologies, thereby positioning them well for diverse career paths.

Notable employment outcomes have been reported, with 90% of the first graduates securing positions across fields such as architecture and telecommunications, with salaries ranging from $4,000 to $6,000. However, graduates have expressed some challenges in their transition to the workforce, revealing that while many found jobs, some felt inadequately prepared in technical skills compared to their peers from more specialized fields like computer science.

Lai Pin Nean, a 26-year-old full-stack engineer, shared his experience of feeling unprepared, emphasizing the need for enhanced mentorship and networking opportunities to better connect graduates with industry expectations. Zenton Yam, another graduate, echoed these sentiments, stating that while he enjoyed hands-on project work during his studies, he faced difficulties finding openings that matched his broad skill set.

Despite these challenges, SUTD is committed to addressing the industry's pressing need for qualified personnel in AI. Senior vice-president of Adecco, Ms. Betul Genc, remarked that graduates with cross-disciplinary skills like those from the DAI program have a competitive edge in collaborative roles. Nevertheless, she cautioned that AI is still acquired within many companies, and potential employers may not yet fully grasp the value of such interdisciplinary degrees.

Graduates are encouraged to stay proactive in researching industry trends, clearly communicating their unique skills, and honing in on niche areas where they can further specialize. For example, Yeo Ke Wei, a 27-year-old graduate, discovered his passion for AI in architecture through hands-on projects with notable partners like Changi General Hospital and DBS Bank, leading him to a fulfilling career.

Overall, experts assert that as SUTD continues to enhance its offerings and the job market adapts, these interdisciplinary graduates could become invaluable assets in a world where technology and design converge. The future landscape of employment may be ripe for those who can navigate the complexities of both fields, signaling a bright outlook for SUTD’s ambitious initiative.