Hardin-Simmons University Launches First AI in Business Course, Advancing Regional Workforce Preparedness

Hardin-Simmons University’s Kelley College of Business and Professional Studies will launch AI in Business (BSAD 3099) in spring 2026, positioning HSU as the first university in Abilene to offer dedicated undergraduate AI instruction tailored for business majors. The course has already reached full enrollment and marks the first interdisciplinary collaboration between the Kelley College of Business and the Holland School of Sciences and Mathematics’ computer science program to integrate artificial intelligence into business education.

The development comes at a pivotal moment for the Abilene region, which is rapidly emerging as a technology hub with major data and infrastructure projects creating sustained demand for AI-literate professionals.

“Artificial intelligence is reshaping the future, and our calling as a Christian university is to prepare students to shape that future with courage, creativity, and conviction,” said Dr. Christopher McNair, provost of Hardin-Simmons University. “By blending AI education with the strengths of the liberal arts and STEM and the guidance of faith, HSU is equipping graduates to be innovators who lead with purpose and serve the world with excellence.”

“Here at Kelley College of Business and Professional Studies, we strive to listen to our community partners to develop curriculum and education pathways that are needed for today’s workplace,” said Dr. Doug McIntyre, dean of the Kelley College of Business and Professional Studies. “This course represents the initial phase of a cross-collaborative effort with the Holland School of Sciences and Mathematics that will incorporate machine learning curriculum, prompt engineering, and additional AI-focused coursework in the coming years.”

“All industries are becoming more reliant on advanced technologies and programming skills. This curricular collaboration between Computer Science in the Holland School of Sciences and Mathematics and the Kelley College of Business and Professional Studies endeavors to place our students at the forefront of relevance in today’s rapidly evolving workforce,” said Dean and Professor of Engineering in the Holland School of Sciences and Mathematics, Dr. Matt Jackson. “Abilene is quickly becoming a global hub of AI innovation, and HSU is adapting to accommodate the required labor expertise.”

AI in Business introduces students to practical applications of artificial intelligence in modern organizations. Topics include generative AI and large language models (LLMs), predictive analytics, agentic AI and intelligent automation, ethical and responsible AI use, and real-world applications in marketing, management, operations, accounting, finance, and product development. By the end of the course, students will understand how AI technologies function from a management perspective and how businesses can use AI tools to improve efficiency, decision-making, and strategic planning.

Building on this momentum, HSU is preparing additional academic enhancements, including:

• An AI endorsement for undergraduate business students
• Exploration of an AI-focused minor in partnership with the computer science program
• Updates to MIS, databases, and systems analysis courses to incorporate AI tools

“AI fluency is now a baseline expectation for future business leaders,” said Dr. Edward Sim, professor of information systems for the Kelley College of Business and Professional Studies. “Our curriculum revisions reflect that reality. AI is no longer optional in business education — it’s essential.”

With its forward-facing curriculum and commitment to community workforce needs, Hardin-Simmons University is positioning graduates to lead in an economy where AI adoption is transforming every industry. For more information about academic programs in the Kelley College of Business and Professional Studies, visit hsutx.edu.