Mapúa Launches the Philippines’ First BS in Artificial Intelligence Engineering

Mapúa University has officially introduced the country’s first and only Bachelor of Science in Artificial Intelligence (AI) Engineering program—a pioneering initiative designed to prepare Filipino students for the rapidly expanding AI-driven industries.

The program was formally launched on Tuesday at the university’s Makati campus, led by President and CEO Dodjie Maestrecampo. He stressed the importance of developing future specialists who will drive innovation and help shape the nation’s AI landscape.

“AI is no longer optional. It is transforming industries, redefining skills, and reshaping learning systems,” said Maestrecampo. He explained that Mapúa is advancing a “co-intelligence” strategy, embedding AI across all academic programs while emphasizing its ethical and responsible use.

Recent surveys show that 92% of Mapúa students are already using generative AI tools for summarizing content, brainstorming, and boosting productivity. Maestrecampo also pointed out that around 36% of jobs in the Philippines are projected to be disrupted or displaced by AI, making it urgent to equip students with future-ready skills.

Arnold Paglinawan, dean of the College of Engineering, highlighted that the program was designed in alignment with the Philippine Skills Framework for Analytics to ensure strong industry relevance.

“This groundbreaking initiative puts us at the forefront of educational innovation. It trains students not only to understand AI but to lead its human-centered and responsible development,” Paglinawan said.

He added that, according to U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics data, AI-related jobs are expected to grow by more than 40%, with median salaries starting at $95,000 annually—underscoring the need for globally competitive graduates.

This August, Mapúa welcomed its first cohort of 70 students at the Intramuros campus. Alongside the program launch, the university also opened the Co-Intelligence for Education Hub at its Makati campus, a collaborative space for students, faculty, and industry partners to co-develop AI-driven projects.

Anchored on the National AI Roadmap, the program aims to position the Philippines as a rising AI powerhouse in Southeast Asia.