Bridging Academia and Industry: Seton Hall’s AI Initiatives Prepare Students for Tomorrow
Thursday, March 13, 2025
Seton Hall University’s Division of Continuing Education and Professional Studies (CEPS) is committed to enhancing AI-driven education and actively contributing to
the learning ecosystem of technological advancement and digital transformation within
the university. By integrating artificial intelligence into its professional development
programs, the division is equipping learners with cutting-edge skills that redefine
digital content creation and the broader professional landscape.
As AI continues to revolutionize industries, the division is embracing its potential to enhance skill development and career readiness. The division’s Digital Content Creation and Generative AI course offered this fall and taught by Renee Robinson, professor, and Jessica Rauchberg, professor, of the College of Human Development, Culture and Media, reflects this commitment. The course leverages AI-driven tools to empower professionals in crafting engaging, high-quality content, from AI-powered video editing to automated content optimization. "AI is not just about technology—it’s about transforming the way we think, work and lead," said Robinson, professor and AI education advocate. "At Seton Hall, we’re preparing our professional learners to lead in this new era of disruption and innovation."
Beyond digital content creation, the division integrates AI applications into multiple fields, preparing professionals to harness intelligent automation. Courses like Leadership Strategies in the Disruptive AI Era, developed by Jack Shannon, professor, Andrew Simon, professor, and Ruchin Kansal, professor, help leaders develop the tools they need to thrive in AI-driven environments.
Our newest offering on the topic, which was offered this February, AI, Generative AI and ChatGPT Deconstructed: Insights into the Good, the Bad and the Ugly, taught by Gale Spak, adjunct faculty member, provides real experience with ChatGPT prompt engineering and provides an understanding of how these technologies function and their useful applications.
Mary Kate Naatus, dean, highlights the importance of understanding AI’s implications for professional growth, stating, "AI is reshaping every industry, and professionals must not only keep pace but lead these changes. Our programs are designed to help learners develop the skills and strategic thinking necessary for success in an AI-enhanced world."
Seton Hall’s commitment to AI education is further demonstrated through its Artificial Intelligence Resource Center, which provides resources, research support and collaborative opportunities for students and professionals alike. In addition, the AI Academy offers specialized courses, workshops and hands-on training designed to equip learners with practical AI skills. Through industry partnerships and expert-led instruction, the AI Academy ensures that students and professionals stay ahead of emerging AI trends while gaining real-world experience in applying artificial intelligence across various fields.
As part of its partnership with CIU, the division has formed a Continuing Education Cybersecurity Committee comprising industry professionals. Together, they co-hosted a keynote address titled "AI and Generative AI: Reshaping Organizations," which explored the transformative effects of AI on cybersecurity strategies and organizational resilience. "Seton Hall’s Division of Continuing Education and Professional Studies is committed to bridging the gap between academia and industry. By embedding AI into our professional development programs, we are preparing learners to be agile, innovative and equipped to lead in an evolving workforce," said Halpin, vice dean for continuing education and professional studies and undergraduate director at the Buccino Leadership Institute.
The university’s law school is also responding to emerging challenges by offering a CLE-bearing course on AI Governance and Data Privacy on March 13 and 14, designed for legal professionals navigating this rapidly evolving landscape.
The university’s Cognitech AI Club, a finalist for the Organization of the Year at the 2024 IMPACT Student Leadership Awards, has also emerged as a hub for student innovation and collaboration in AI. "As one of the fastest-growing clubs on campus, we are relentlessly pushing the bounds of what great minds can achieve. Our interdisciplinary approach to AI fosters collaboration with groups like the Entrepreneurship Club and the Zero Chains Initiative while also driving the development of our models. The future of our work depends on continued support from both faculty and students, as well as maintaining our momentum," said Sander Dawson, president of the Artificial Intelligence Club.
In addition, Seton Hall’s College of Arts and Sciences is developing a new course in prompt engineering to meet the growing demand for expertise in AI interaction and optimization. This course will provide students with a deep understanding of how to effectively communicate with AI systems, enhancing their ability to leverage generative AI tools across industries. By integrating technical proficiency with critical thinking, Seton Hall continues to position its students at the forefront of the AI revolution.
Seton Hall’s proactive approach to AI education reflects its leadership in preparing professionals for the future of work. As part of the CIO Roundtable Series, co-hosted with the NJ Society for Information Management, the division has also delved deeply into AI’s practical applications. The series has featured insights from chief information officers and chief technology officers on leveraging AI for operational efficiencies, understanding associated risks and sharing real-world examples of industry successes and lessons learned along the way.
Whether through innovative courses, cross-disciplinary partnerships or leadership development, the division continues to lead the way in how higher education responds to technological disruption.
Categories: Science and Technology
