Press Release: Pace University Students Help Shape New York Bill to Restrict Chemicals Linked to Wildlife Deaths
Pace University students in the Animal Advocacy Clinic met with lawmakers in Albany today to advocate for legislation aimed at restricting the use of rodenticides linked to the deaths of wildlife and companion animals.
RAPTORS Act, introduced following three years of student-led research and advocacy, targets rodenticides harming wildlife and pets
Pace University students in the Animal Advocacy Clinic met with lawmakers in Albany today to advocate for legislation aimed at restricting the use of rodenticides linked to the deaths of wildlife and companion animals.
The bill, known as the RAPTORS Act, was introduced by Senator Pete Harckham and Assemblymember Chris Burdick following three years of student-led research and advocacy.
“The prevalence of anticoagulant rodenticides in the environment threatens to make these poisons another DDT, unless we act now,” said Michelle D. Land, clinical professor in the Department of Environmental Studies and Science and director of the Animal Policy Project. “DDT, a pesticide, was banned only after its harm to birds of prey and other wildlife was undeniable. With anticoagulant rodenticides, that harm is already clear. We are grateful to Senator Harckham and Assemblymember Burdick for their leadership on this urgent issue.”
According to research, second-generation rodenticides have been linked to the deaths of predatory birds and other animals that consume rodents, including wolves, foxes, skunks and coyotes. A Cornell University study found 68% of red-tailed hawks tested in New York had detectable rodenticides in their systems. Data from the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation show nearly 90% of tested hawks in New York City showed exposure to rodenticides.
The risks extend beyond wildlife. The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals’ Animal Poison Control Center receives thousands of calls each year related to rodenticide exposure in pets, and national poison control data indicate that young children are also at risk of accidental ingestion.
“My legislation to severely limit the use of anticoagulant rodenticides is in response to the alarming toxicity of these chemicals, how they unintentionally end up poisoning non-targeted wildlife, including birds of prey, other mammals and even humans, and the lasting accumulation of these super poisons in our ecosystems,” said Sen. Harckham. “The availability of effective alternatives and continued innovation in pest management further underscore the need to advance and enact this bill. Thank you to Pace University’s Department of Environmental Studies and Science and its Animal Advocacy Clinic for their partnership and science-based advocacy.”
The proposed legislation would prohibit both second-generation and first-generation anticoagulant rodenticides (SGARs and FGARs), while allowing limited exceptions for significant threats to public health, critical infrastructure and certain agricultural uses. In those cases, nonchemical methods must be attempted first, with safeguards to reduce unintended exposure.
"It is incumbent on us to protect our wildlife and maintain balance in our ecosystems,” said Assemblymember Chris Burdick. "I’m grateful for the collaboration with Pace University’s Department of Environmental Studies and Science and its Animal Advocacy Clinic and with Senator Harckham in creating this piece of legislation. As we learn more about the consequences of some of the toxic chemicals we use and as we develop safer and more environmentally friendly ways to achieve the same goals, we must pass legislation to keep up with the science."
The Animal Advocacy Clinic builds on a strong track record of student-driven policy success at Pace. Founded in 2016 as the Environmental Policy Clinic, the program has helped advance legislation to protect animals and wildlife, including the Elephant Protection Act, which was signed into law in 2017 and banned the use of elephants in entertainment in New York.
The clinic has also supported successful efforts to pass legislation banning wildlife killing contests in New York, following years of research, advocacy and lobbying by Pace students.
These efforts laid the foundation for the Animal Advocacy Clinic, where undergraduate and graduate students, including first-year students, collaborate across all majors to research, draft and advocate for legislation.
“Through my research for the Animal Advocacy Clinic, I learned how widespread these poisons are and how often they affect animals who were never the target,” said Gertrude Phiri, a graduate assistant with the Animal Policy Project and a master’s student in environmental science and policy. “It became clear to me this is an ecosystem-wide issue that calls for a legislative response.”
Wildlife rehabilitators across New York have been a critical part of the effort to ban anti-coagulant rodenticides, documenting suspected poisoning cases and providing frontline insight into the frequency and severity of exposure in non-target species.
If enacted, the RAPTORS Act would position New York among a growing number of jurisdictions moving away from widespread reliance on anticoagulant rodenticides in favor of more targeted, preventative approaches.
About Pace University
Founded in 1906 and celebrating 120 years of preparing students for success in 2026, Pace University pairs real-life learning with strong academics to launch meaningful careers. With campuses in New York City and Westchester County, Pace serves 13,600 students across a range of bachelor, master, and doctoral programs through the College of Health Professions, Dyson College of Arts and Sciences, Elisabeth Haub School of Law, Lubin School of Business, Sands College of Performing Arts, School of Education, and Seidenberg School of Computer Science and Information Systems.
About the Animal Policy Project at Pace University
The Animal Policy Project at Pace University advances legal and policy solutions to improve the treatment of animals and protect biodiversity. Through research, advocacy, and experiential learning opportunities such as the Animal Advocacy Clinic, the Project works with students, policymakers, and partner organizations to address complex issues at the intersection of animal welfare, public policy, and environmental protection.
About the Department of Environmental Studies and Science
The Department of Environmental Studies and Science at Pace University prepares students to address pressing environmental challenges through interdisciplinary study, applied research, and hands-on learning. The department is home to initiatives such as the Suburban Biodiversity Conservation Center, which focuses on protecting and restoring biodiversity in human-dominated landscapes.
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Sands College Faculty Brings Home a Peabody
Sands College of Performing Arts Clinical Assistant Professor Brendan Patrick Hughes has been honored with one of media's highest distinctions for his podcast Divine Intervention, a story of radical faith, resistance, and love.
Brendan Patrick Hughes, a Clinical Assistant Professor in Pace University’s Sands College of Performing Arts, has received a 2025 Peabody Award for his podcast Divine Intervention, a project he wrote, hosted, produced, and directed.
The recognition places Hughes among the most accomplished storytellers in media today and highlights the strength of faculty at Pace's Sands College, where industry expertise meets hands-on creative training. Known for preparing students to become working performers and creators, Sands College emphasizes real-world experience across theater, film, television, and emerging media.
“The opportunity I have at this school, to work with the young storytellers whose ideas will shape the future of the American narrative, is something I cherish every day.”
The Peabody Awards are widely regarded as the most prestigious honor in broadcasting and storytelling—the equivalent of a Pulitzer Prize for media. Now in their 86th year, Peabodys are awarded by unanimous vote of a diverse board of jurors and recognize only a small number of works each year across all of journalism, documentary, entertainment, and podcast and radio. Being selected is exceptionally rare, and past honorees represent the most impactful and enduring media of their generation.
Divine Intervention was recognized in the podcast and radio category for its compelling retelling of a largely overlooked chapter in American history. The series takes listeners to 1971 Boston, where a group of young Catholic priests and nuns formed an anti-war movement during the Vietnam War. They provided the first political sanctuary in a Catholic Church in 400 years to draft resister Paul Couming and engaged in draft board raids that brought them into conflict with J. Edgar Hoover’s FBI.
Through vivid storytelling, Hughes—whose father was a Catholic priest before marrying himself to his mother in his last act as a priest—explores themes of radical faith, resistance, and attempted reforms within the Catholic Church. The podcast also reveals a personal connection, weaving in the story of Hughes's own family and grounding the historical narrative in lived experience. “I grew up on a commune, hearing these crazy stories of the ex-nuns and priests who lived there becoming cat burglars to sabotage a war,” Hughes says. “When it dawned on me how unusual this was, I knew I had to start recording their stories. The whole project took 25 years to complete.” The result is a layered and emotionally resonant series that connects past events to present-day conversations about activism and moral courage.
Hughes's achievement reflects the mission of the Sands College of Performing Arts, where faculty are active professionals shaping the future of their fields. Faculty like Hughes bring their creative practice into their teaching, preparing students to craft stories that engage audiences and contribute meaningfully to the cultural conversation. “All storytelling is truly at an inflection point,” Hughes says. “The opportunity I have at this school, to work with the young storytellers whose ideas will shape the future of the American narrative, is something I cherish every day.”
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15 Lucrative Careers in Artificial Intelligence
Explore 15 artificial intelligence careers, skills needed, job outlook, and New York metro salary ranges. Learn how to break into AI at Pace University.
Artificial intelligence is reshaping every industry, from healthcare and finance to manufacturing and entertainment. The technology that once seemed futuristic now powers the tools we use daily, and the professionals who build, refine, and deploy these systems are in unprecedented demand.
If you're considering a career in AI, you're looking at one of the most dynamic and rewarding fields in technology. AI professionals command competitive salaries, work on cutting-edge innovations, and have the opportunity to solve real-world problems that impact millions of lives.
If you're in the New York metro area, you're positioned in one of the world's leading tech hubs, where AI talent is highly sought after and generously compensated.
This guide explores the careers in artificial intelligence that are shaping the future, the skills you'll need to break into the industry, and how Pace University's AI programs can prepare you to thrive in this fast-growing field.
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What Are Careers in Artificial Intelligence?
Careers in AI revolve around building, developing, and maintaining the intelligent systems that perform tasks traditionally requiring human cognition, such as learning, reasoning, problem-solving, and decision-making. Today, AI powers applications and analytical tools used across virtually every industry.
In healthcare, AI-powered diagnostic tools analyze medical images, predict patient outcomes, and streamline administrative workflows, allowing physicians to focus on patient care. In finance, AI automates fraud detection, processes credit scoring, and powers chatbots that handle customer inquiries 24/7. Government agencies use AI to increase operational efficiency, support data-driven decision-making, and analyze vast datasets that would be impossible to review manually.
This widespread adoption has created a growing need for professionals who understand core AI concepts, including the following:
- Machine learning: Algorithms that enable machines to learn from data and improve performance over time without explicit programming.
- Deep learning: Advanced neural networks that process complex patterns in data, powering applications like image recognition and natural language understanding.
- Natural language processing (NLP): Tools that allow machines to understand, interpret, and generate human language for applications like chatbots and translation services.
- Computer vision: Systems that interpret visual data like images and videos, enabling facial recognition, autonomous vehicles, and medical imaging analysis.
- Cloud computing and AI deployment: Scalable infrastructure to store massive datasets, manage computing power, and deploy AI solutions efficiently.
- Big data management: The ability to collect, process, and analyze enormous datasets that fuel AI model training and insights.
Professionals in AI careers might work as engineers building machine learning models, researchers pushing the boundaries of what's possible with AI, ethicists ensuring responsible AI development, or product managers translating technical capabilities into business solutions.
Which Skills Are Essential for AI Jobs?
Breaking into AI requires a blend of technical expertise and soft skills that allow you to apply complex technologies in practical, impactful ways.
Technical Skills
To build and deploy AI systems effectively, you'll need expertise in:
- Programming: You should understand and have hands-on experience in at least one of the following programming languages: Python (the most widely used in AI), R (valuable for statistical analysis), C/C++ (for performance-critical applications), or Java (common in enterprise environments).
- Database and data management: Develop your expertise in SQL and database management systems to query and manipulate the large datasets that power AI models. Understand data warehousing concepts and tools that store and organize information efficiently.
- Data visualization: Enhance your ability to communicate insights using visualization tools like Tableau or Power BI, which help translate complex data findings into actionable business intelligence.
- Mathematics and statistics: Build a strong foundation in linear algebra, calculus, probability, and statistics. These underpin the algorithms and models at the heart of AI systems.
- AI frameworks and tools: Gain experience with machine learning frameworks such as TensorFlow, PyTorch, and scikit-learn, which streamline the development and deployment of AI models.
Soft Skills
Technical knowledge alone won't set you apart. AI professionals must also excel at:
- Research and analytical thinking: The ability to investigate problems, test hypotheses, and derive insights from data.
- Collaboration: AI projects typically involve cross-functional teams including engineers, designers, business stakeholders, and domain experts.
- Communication: Translating complex technical concepts into language that non-technical stakeholders can understand and act upon.
- Critical thinking and problem-solving: Approaching challenges methodically, identifying root causes, and developing innovative solutions.
- Ethical reasoning: Understanding the societal implications of AI systems and making decisions that prioritize fairness, transparency, and accountability.
Pace University's AI programs equip students with these essential skills through hands-on learning, access to high-tech facilities, collaboration with innovative faculty conducting cutting-edge research, and a curriculum grounded in ethical frameworks. With three AI degree options and over 40 courses, Pace prepares you to enter the field with confidence.
AI Demand and Job Outlook
The career outlook for AI professionals is exceptionally strong. While the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics doesn't track "AI jobs" as a distinct occupational category, AI professionals typically fall under related occupations with robust growth projections.
Computer and Information Research Scientists—a category that includes AI research scientists, algorithm developers, and research-focused roles—is projected to grow 20% from 2024 to 2034, much faster than the average for all occupations. The Data Scientists occupational category, which includes many AI specializations and machine learning applications, shows even stronger momentum with a projected growth rate of 34% over the same period, making it one of the fastest-growing occupations in the technology sector.
Beyond the numbers, market dynamics tell a compelling story. The World Economic Forum reports that advancements in AI and information processing technologies (86%) and robotics and automation (58%) are the primary drivers of demand for technology-related skills. AI and big data, networks and cybersecurity, and technological literacy are anticipated to be the three fastest-growing skill areas globally.
Careers such as Big Data Specialists, FinTech Engineers, AI and Machine Learning Specialists, and Software and Application Developers are among the fastest-growing jobs, reflecting how AI capabilities are becoming mission-critical across industries.
For professionals in the New York metro area, the opportunity is even greater. New York City has emerged as a global AI hub, home to major tech companies, innovative startups, world-class research institutions, and financial services firms investing heavily in AI transformation. This concentration of AI activity translates into higher salaries, diverse career pathways, and unparalleled networking opportunities.
Top Careers in AI
The following 15 careers represent some of the most sought-after roles in artificial intelligence. Each offers unique challenges, opportunities for impact, and strong earning potential—especially in the New York metro area.
1. AI Engineer
AI engineers design, develop, and deploy machine learning models that solve real-world problems. They build the infrastructure that allows AI systems to function in production environments, working closely with data scientists and software developers to bring AI solutions to life. AI engineers need strong programming skills, expertise in machine learning frameworks, and an understanding of cloud platforms for scalable deployment.
Key Skills: Python, TensorFlow, PyTorch, cloud platforms (AWS, Azure, Google Cloud), model optimization, MLOps
NY Metro Salary Range: $136,000–$228,000
2. AI Ethicist
As AI systems become more prevalent, the need for professionals who ensure these technologies are developed and used responsibly has never been greater. AI ethicists address critical concerns around bias, fairness, transparency, privacy, and accountability. They work with development teams to identify potential ethical issues, develop governance frameworks, and ensure AI practices align with legal requirements and societal values.
Key Skills: Ethics frameworks, regulatory knowledge, risk assessment, stakeholder communication, policy development
NY Metro Salary Range: $153,000–$248,000
3. AI Product Manager
AI product managers bridge the gap between technical teams and business stakeholders, guiding the development of AI-powered products from concept to launch. They define product vision, prioritize features, manage roadmaps, and ensure that technical capabilities translate into user value and business outcomes. This role requires both technical fluency and strategic thinking.
Key Skills: Product strategy, roadmap management, stakeholder communication, technical understanding of AI/ML, user experience design, agile methodologies
NY Metro Salary Range: $174,000–$263,000
4. AI Solutions Architect
AI solutions architects design the technical architecture for AI systems, ensuring they're scalable, efficient, and integrated seamlessly with existing infrastructure. They make high-level decisions about technology stacks, data pipelines, model deployment strategies, and system integration. This role requires deep technical expertise combined with a strategic understanding of business requirements.
Key Skills: System design, cloud architecture, data pipeline design, machine learning infrastructure, technical leadership
NY Metro Salary Range: $224,000–$359,000
5. Big Data Specialist
Big data specialists manage and analyze massive datasets that fuel AI applications. They design data architectures, implement data processing pipelines, and ensure data quality and accessibility. These professionals work with tools like Hadoop, Apache Spark, and NoSQL databases to handle data at scale.
Key Skills: Hadoop, Apache Spark, data warehousing, distributed computing, ETL processes, data governance
NY Metro Salary Range: $89,000–$160,000
6. Business Intelligence Developer
Business intelligence developers leverage AI and machine learning to extract actionable insights from data and support strategic decision-making. They design dashboards, automate reporting processes, and build predictive analytics tools that help organizations understand trends and optimize operations.
Key Skills: SQL, Power BI, Tableau, data modeling, statistical analysis, business acumen
NY Metro Salary Range: $111,000–$174,000
7. Data Analyst
Data analysts collect, process, and analyze data to uncover patterns and insights that inform business decisions. In AI-driven organizations, data analysts often work closely with data scientists and machine learning engineers to prepare datasets, validate model outputs, and communicate findings to stakeholders.
Key Skills: SQL, Excel, Python or R, data visualization, statistical analysis, critical thinking
NY Metro Salary Range: $74,000–$126,000
8. Data Scientist
Data scientists use statistical methods and machine learning techniques to extract insights from complex datasets. They build predictive models, conduct experiments, and translate data findings into strategic recommendations. This role sits at the intersection of statistics, programming, and business strategy.
Key Skills: Python or R, machine learning algorithms, statistical modeling, data visualization, experimentation, domain expertise
NY Metro Salary Range: $128,000–$217,000
9. FinTech Engineer
FinTech engineers develop AI solutions specifically for financial technology applications. They build systems for fraud detection, algorithmic trading, credit scoring, risk assessment, and personalized financial planning. This role requires both technical AI expertise and a deep understanding of financial systems and regulations.
Key Skills: Machine learning, Python or Java, financial domain knowledge, regulatory compliance, real-time systems
NY Metro Salary Range: $150,000–$279,000
10. Research Scientist
AI research scientists push the boundaries of what's possible in artificial intelligence. They conduct experiments, develop novel algorithms, publish research papers, and collaborate with academic and industry partners to advance the field. This role typically requires an advanced degree and a strong publication record.
Key Skills: Advanced mathematics, deep learning, research methodologies, scientific writing, algorithm development
NY Metro Salary Range: $182,000–$295,000
11. Machine Learning Engineer
Machine learning engineers design, build, and deploy ML models that power intelligent applications. They work on recommendation systems, predictive analytics, natural language processing applications, and computer vision solutions. This role emphasizes production-ready code, model optimization, and system scalability.
Key Skills: Python, TensorFlow or PyTorch, feature engineering, model deployment, software engineering best practices
NY Metro Salary Range: $137,000–$220,000
12. Natural Language Processing Engineer
NLP engineers develop systems that understand, interpret, and generate human language. They build chatbots, translation services, sentiment analysis tools, text summarization systems, and voice assistants. This specialized role requires expertise in linguistics, machine learning, and language models.
Key Skills: NLP libraries (spaCy, NLTK, Hugging Face), transformers, language modeling, Python, linguistic knowledge
NY Metro Salary Range: $131,000–$194,000
13. Robotics Engineer
Robotics engineers design, build, and program robots that perform tasks autonomously or semi-autonomously. They integrate AI technologies to enhance robot functionality, enabling applications in manufacturing, healthcare, logistics, and exploration. This role combines mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, and AI.
Key Skills: Robotics programming (ROS), sensor integration, machine learning, control systems, mechanical design
NY Metro Salary Range: $110,000–$185,000
14. Software/Application Developer
Software developers in AI-focused roles build applications that integrate machine learning capabilities. They create user-facing products, APIs, and systems that leverage AI to deliver intelligent functionality. This role emphasizes software engineering fundamentals alongside AI integration skills.
Key Skills: Python, Java, or C++, software architecture, API design, version control, testing and debugging
NY Metro Salary Range: $122,000–$183,000
15. UX Designer/Developer
UX designers and developers in AI create intuitive interfaces for AI-powered applications. They ensure users can interact effectively with intelligent systems, designing experiences that are accessible, transparent, and aligned with user needs. This role blends design thinking with technical implementation.
Key Skills: UI/UX design, front-end development (HTML, CSS, JavaScript), user research, prototyping tools (Figma, Sketch), accessibility standards
NY Metro Salary Range: $100,000–$162,000
Salary Disclaimer: Salary figures sourced from Glassdoor in February 2026 for the New York, NY, metro area. Actual salaries can vary based on factors including geographic location, specific employer, years of experience, education level, and available salary submission data. These ranges represent typical compensation and should be used as general guidelines.
How to Pursue a Career in AI
Pursuing a career in artificial intelligence requires a combination of foundational knowledge, hands-on experience, and strategic career planning. Here's how to position yourself for success.
Step 1. Build Your Foundation
- Gain a basic understanding of AI and math fundamentals: Start by exploring the basics of AI through articles, videos, and introductory courses. Learn the difference between supervised and unsupervised learning, understand how neural networks function, and explore deep learning concepts. Strengthen your foundation in linear algebra, calculus, probability, and statistics. These mathematical concepts underpin AI algorithms.
- Learn programming languages: Focus on languages commonly used in AI, particularly Python (the dominant language in the field), R (valuable for statistical analysis and data science), and Java (used in enterprise environments). Build comfort with data structures, algorithms, and object-oriented programming.
- Practice with AI tools: Get hands-on experience by exploring open-source AI projects on platforms like GitHub, GitLab, or Bitbucket. Work through tutorials, replicate existing models, and experiment with datasets. Participate in Kaggle competitions to test your skills against real-world problems and learn from the community.
Step 2. Invest in Education
- Consider a formal education: While self-learning is valuable, a structured academic program provides comprehensive training, access to expert faculty, hands-on projects, and credentialing that employers recognize. A strong academic background in computer science, mathematics, data science, or a related field can significantly accelerate your career trajectory. Many universities now offer specialized degree programs in AI and machine learning that provide both theoretical foundations and practical applications.
- For those looking to differentiate themselves in the job market, a master's degree in artificial intelligence offers advanced training, research opportunities, and deeper specialization. Graduate programs prepare you for leadership roles and complex technical challenges.
Step 3. Build Experience and Network
- Join AI communities: Engage with online communities of AI enthusiasts and professionals on platforms like LinkedIn, Reddit, GitHub, and specialized forums. Attend meetups, conferences, and workshops where you can learn from practitioners, discover the latest developments, and build relationships that can lead to opportunities.
- Seek internships and projects: Apply for internships at companies working on AI, participate in research projects at universities, or contribute to open-source AI initiatives. These experiences provide real-world context, strengthen your resume, and help you build a portfolio that demonstrates your capabilities.
- Stay current: AI is a rapidly evolving field. Follow leading researchers, read papers, take online courses on emerging techniques, and continuously update your skills to remain competitive.
Majoring in AI at Pace University
Pace University offers three comprehensive AI degree programs designed to prepare you for success in today's AI-driven world. Whether you're just starting your undergraduate journey or looking to advance your career with graduate education, Pace provides the hands-on experience, technical expertise, and ethical grounding you need to thrive.
The Bachelor of Science in Artificial Intelligence builds a strong foundation in AI concepts, programming, mathematics, and real-world applications. You'll gain expertise in machine learning, data science, and AI development while exploring ethical considerations and societal impacts.
The Master of Science in Artificial Intelligence is an advanced degree that dives deep into cutting-edge AI technologies, research methodologies, and specialized applications. You'll work on complex projects, collaborate with faculty on research initiatives, and position yourself for leadership roles in the field.
The Master of Science in Applied Artificial Intelligence is designed for professionals looking to apply AI in real-world contexts, this program emphasizes practical skills, industry applications, and the translation of AI capabilities into business value.
What sets Pace apart? Location is a major advantage—studying in the New York metro area means access to one of the world's leading tech hubs. You'll find internships, networking events, and career opportunities at major corporations, innovative startups, and research institutions all within reach of Pace's campuses.
Pace faculty are at the forefront of AI-related research across diverse applications, from AI ethics and governance to social media, pedagogy, and healthcare. Recent faculty-student collaborations have explored AI applications in mental health diagnostics through social media analysis, machine learning for speech disorder diagnosis, and ethical monitoring systems for AI behavior. Students often collaborate with faculty on cutting-edge projects, contributing to research that advances the field.
The Pace Artificial Intelligence Lab—housed in the cutting-edge 15 Beekman building in NYC—combines research, education, partnerships, and training to drive critical advances in AI innovation. With over 30 years of AI research and development expertise, the lab serves as the central AI hub for the Pace community, providing access to the tools, technology, and mentorship used by leading AI professionals.
Pace's Augmented Intelligence Lab focuses on the human side of that equation, exploring how people and AI systems collaborate, make decisions, and build trust. Students in the lab work with faculty on research in areas such as healthcare applications, cybersecurity decision support, and human-centered AI design.
With over 40 AI-related courses taught by 14+ faculty actively researching in the field, Pace offers depth and breadth of learning. Every Pace student begins their AI journey with CIS 101, which introduces AI fundamentals and ethical use, ensuring all graduates enter the workforce with AI literacy.
Learn more about your career opportunities in AI at Pace University.
FAQ
How do I start a career in AI?
Start by learning Python and building foundational skills in mathematics and statistics. Pursue a bachelor's degree in computer science, data science, or AI. Build a portfolio through personal projects and Kaggle competitions, then apply for internships. Consider a master's degree to access advanced roles and higher salaries.
How can I get an AI job with no experience?
Begin with entry-level roles like junior data analyst or research assistant. Build a portfolio of AI projects on GitHub, take online courses, and earn certifications from platforms like Coursera. Participate in Kaggle competitions and network at AI meetups to make connections in the field.
Is AI a high-paid job?
Yes, AI careers tend to earn high salaries. In New York metro, entry-level positions start around $74,000 to $100,000, mid-level roles earn $128,000 to $220,000, and senior positions reach $224,000 to $359,000. Tech hubs including NYC offer significantly higher compensation than national averages.
Which industries use AI?
AI is used across technology, healthcare, financial services, manufacturing, retail, government, transportation, education, agriculture, energy, and entertainment industries.
What skills do I need to work in AI?
You need Python proficiency, understanding of machine learning algorithms, and experience with frameworks like TensorFlow or PyTorch. Essential knowledge includes SQL, cloud platforms, and mathematics (linear algebra, calculus, statistics). Important soft skills are analytical thinking, problem-solving, communication, and collaboration.
Step Into the Future of AI at Pace University
Ready to launch your AI career? Explore Pace University's AI programs and discover how we prepare students to lead in this transformative field.