CIHS Launches First Accredited Graduate Degree for AGI

The California Institute for Human Science just announced a new Master of Science program focused entirely on artificial general intelligence. Unlike typical AI degrees that teach students how to use current software, this program aims to tackle the fundamental engineering and philosophical challenges of creating truly general intelligence. Classes will be held live and online, allowing students to learn directly from leading researchers in the field.

Dr. Ben Goertzel, who helped popularize the term AGI and founded SingularityNET, is among the primary faculty members. He will be joined by researchers Matthew Iklé and Gabriel Axel Montes. The curriculum moves away from pre recorded videos, opting for a live, interactive format that focuses on the core principles of intelligence rather than just the latest AI tools.

This development is noteworthy for the tech industry as it signals a shift toward academic formalization of AGI research. By grounding the study of machine intelligence in ethics and scientific rigor, the institute hopes to prepare the next generation of engineers for the long term impact of their creations. The school is fully accredited, matching the institutional standards of top universities like Stanford and Caltech.

Prospective students have until the end of August 2026 to apply for the inaugural cohort. With the rapid pace of AI advancement, this program highlights a growing interest in understanding the foundations of intelligence, not just the applications of the month. Anyone interested in the future of AGI will likely watch how this academic approach influences the broader industry.