How AI is used at SDU – with a focus on the upcoming degree programmes in Vejle

Artificial intelligence and the use of it is becoming increasingly prevalent in society, and this is also true at the University of Southern Denmark – not least as the University is preparing to launch several new degree programmes at our new campus in Vejle, which will welcome the first new students next semester.

Mustafa Mert Çelikok, assistant professor at IMADA, is one of the key figures behind the development of the new AI programmes in his role as programme manager for Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence.

Mert joined SDU in the autumn of 2025, and since then he has been involved in shaping the academic content and the structure of the degree programmes, as well as collaborations with the business community.

A foundation that goes beyond tools

The aim in Vejle is not to train students who simply know how to use the latest technologies.

- Although it is called an AI degree programme, it is essentially a comprehensive education in computer science with a specialisation in AI. We focus on algorithms, statistics and mathematics because this is what enables the students to understand and develop the technology. It’s not about learning how to use specific tools, but about understanding the underlying principles.

This approach is deliberate: At a time when many tools are being automated – including coding – their in-depth understanding of the technology will be the students’ greatest strength.

To educate people who cannot be replaced

For Mert, the ultimate aim is to prepare students for a world in which AI is not just a tool but a partner – and in some cases a competitor.

- When our students have completed their bachelor’s degree, they will already be able to join companies and work on AI projects; nevertheless, we expect many to continue their studies on a master’s programme. Their value lies in their ability to understand, select and develop the right solutions. This is also a difference which means they cannot simply be replaced by a model.

At the same time, the programmes are working closely with businesses in the region, in which demand for these skills is already high.

From the classroom to the real world – close links with the business community

One key feature of the programmes will be that the students work on real-world problems – not just theoretical exercises.

- It is a conscious strategy to work with projects that are not merely exercises but mirror real challenges that businesses face. We are already collaborating with large international companies around Vejle, so that the students can work on real-world case studies and can also build relations that lead to job opportunities.

Our aim is for the students to experience, even during their studies, the value that their skills create outside the university.

AI will become a part of all education programmes

Mustafa Mert Çelikok is convinced that AI will play a role across virtually all disciplines and education programmes in the coming years.

- AI will not be limited to technical programmes – it will affect everything from medicine and law to the natural science programmes. It is not about making everyone AI specialists – but about providing all students with an understanding that enables them to use the technology competently, in ways that increase their knowledge.

Ethics is not an afterthought – it is a core element

The increasing use of AI is also raising new questions about accountability, data usage and societal implications. These aspects are of great importance and will constitute an integral part of the programmes.

- We offer courses in AI and ethics and also in AI in society because it is essential that students reflect on the consequences of the technology and its long-term societal impacts. At the same time, we are open about challenges such as the use of AI in academic programmes in which it can undermine learning. The aim is to produce responsible computer scientists rather than just skilled technicians.

This also applies to teaching, in which AI is both a tool and a challenge with regard to assessment methods and learning processes.

Strong environment – with potential for greater visibility

SDU already has a strong position in the field of AI, in terms of both research and education. But we can make even better use of our potential.

- SDU is actually very strong in the field of AI: we have outstanding research environments and expertise spanning several faculties and campuses. Our challenge isn’t the quality; it’s the fact that we’re spread out, which makes it hard for people outside the University to see our strength. If we get better at bringing our work together and making it more visible, we can present an even stronger image both nationally and internationally. We definitely have the potential.