Thomas Jefferson University has launched five AI-focused academic programs since 2025 to equip students with the skills needed for a fast-changing job market, the Philadelphia university highlighted on October 2, 2026. The programs span computational biology, health data, and business and data analytics, reflecting the university’s push to lead in AI-enabled education.
“AI and technology will have a transformative role in enhancing learning, research, and operational efficiencies within Jefferson,” said University President Susan Aldridge, PhD. “Once we can build the infrastructure and demonstrate our knowledge, capabilities, and skill sets, we can start answering questions with our own data, which is where the University will greatly benefit.”
MS in Computational Biology & Medicine
This interdisciplinary program bridges biology, medicine, and computational science, using computational techniques to analyze biological data, understand complex biological systems, and improve patient outcomes. It’s designed for people with backgrounds in biological sciences, computer science, or related fields, from recent graduates looking to specialize to professionals moving into the field.
“Students will gain a robust foundation in key areas, such as bioinformatics, systems biology, and machine learning applications in healthcare,” said Program Director Eric Londin, PhD. “They will learn to analyze large datasets, develop algorithms, and create models that can lead to breakthroughs in medical research and patient care.”
MS in Health Artificial Intelligence
Offered fully online through the Jefferson College of Population Health, the MS in Health AI is built for healthcare professionals and aspiring leaders who want to use AI to improve patient care, healthcare operations, and population health. Rather than a traditional computer science or engineering track, the program focuses on applying AI in healthcare, with an emphasis on ethics, governance, and responsible implementation. Students progress from statistics, machine learning, and health data science into generative AI, healthcare applications, data management, and responsible AI, finishing with a faculty-mentored capstone tackling real-world challenges such as improving workflows or supporting clinical decision-making. The executive-style program offers one accelerated course at a time and can be completed in about two years while working full time.
“The idea is that students walk away with something they can talk about in an interview or bring back to their current employer,” said Richard Hass, PhD, the Health AI program director. “It connects everything in the curriculum back to the real world.”
AI in Health Analytics Leadership Certificate
This three-course advanced practice certificate, also led by Dr. Hass, is aimed at working professionals and newcomers to health informatics. It guides students through health data from ethical considerations to building AI models. The certificate is stackable: students can add two courses for a full certificate or eight more for an MS in Health Data Science.
“This program is built for people to get their feet wet working with health data, whether you’re a student coming out of clinical research or a practitioner wanting to get out of the clinic and move up to the executive level,” Dr. Hass said.
Business and Data Analytics With AI
Jefferson also launched two analytics degrees with distinct focuses. The MS in Business Analytics & AI integrates analytics and AI into business strategy, with an emphasis on data storytelling for leadership, while the MS in Data Analytics & AI goes deeper into technical modeling and machine learning. “They’re perfect for people who excel in working with data — whether you’re already in the workforce, changing careers, or completing your undergraduate degree,” said Justin O’Pella, interim director for both programs.
Why Now
Dr. Aldridge said the programs respond to the rapid evolution of job requirements in technology and analytics. “This field is experiencing rapid growth, meaning a higher demand for specialized skills,” she said. “Our programs emphasize technical expertise and ethical considerations, quality control, and leadership skills concerning data management.” She added that applied, interdisciplinary learning is central to the programs: “In working on projects, students from various backgrounds will collaborate with peers and professors who have direct industry experience, bringing different perspectives to real-world challenges.”
About Thomas Jefferson University
Thomas Jefferson University is a Philadelphia-based university with campuses in Center City and East Falls. Its academic programs span health, science, and business, including offerings through the Jefferson College of Population Health and its College of Business.
