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The Department of Philosophy of the Faculty of Arts at the University of Hong Kong (HKU) will launch its new Master of Arts in AI, Ethics and Society (MAAIES) programme in September 2023. This programme is the first of its kind in Asia and is designed for individuals who want to be at the forefront of the AI revolution and shape it for the better.  Online Information Sessions will be held in July for interested applicants to learn more about the Programme.

The MA in AI, Ethics and Society programme has an interdisciplinary approach, drawing on a range of fields, including philosophy, computer science, social sciences, law, political science, and humanities.  Through a rigorous curriculum that combines theoretical and practical approaches, students will gain a deep understanding of the ethical, social, and economic implications of AI.  They will also learn how to apply this knowledge in various contexts, including policy-making, business strategy, ethical design, and creative industries. 

Professor Herman Cappelen, Chair Professor of Philosophy, Director of the MAAIES programme and the AI&Humanity Lab says:
“The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) into our lives is an exciting prospect, with the potential to revolutionize the way we live, work and interact with one another.  However, it also presents significant challenges that we must address if we are to reap the benefits of this technology while avoiding its potential pitfalls.  One of the central challenges facing humanity is how to responsibly, ethically and humanely integrate AI into our social, political and individual lives.  AI has the potential to drastically improve creative and financial industries, education, political decision making, urban planning, healthcare, transportation, and almost all other aspects of our lives.  However, it also has the potential to exacerbate existing inequalities and threaten our privacy, security and autonomy.  To navigate these challenges, we must come together across a broad range of disciplines, industries and governments to foster a collaborative approach to integrating AI.  This task requires unprecedented collaboration, transparency, and accountability to ensure that AI is developed and deployed in a way that is beneficial to all of humanity.  The decisions we make now will have extraordinary effects on the future of humanity.  The aim of this MA programme is to equip students with the skills and knowledge necessary to understand and influence these developments.  By doing so, we can work towards a future where AI is a force for good.”   

Mr. Sundar Pichai, CEO of Google, observed:
“AI is one of the most important things humanity is working on. It is more profound than electricity or fire … We have learned to harness fire for the benefits of humanity but we had to overcome its downsides too. So my point is, AI is really important, but we have to be concerned about it.”

Professor Derek Collins, Dean of the Faculty of Arts is thrilled and says:
“I am super excited about the launch of MAAIES. This new programme reinforces the Faculty of Arts' and HKU's relentless commitment to offering cutting-edge, timely and relevant MA offerings that will advance our students' careers and knowledge. Few programmes like this exist in the world and we at HKU and the Faculty of Arts are the first to offer one in Asia. Whether you're a younger student, an industry professional, or already a technology specialist, the MAAIES programme will deepen your understanding of the monumental issues surrounding AI and its implications for the future. After completing this MA, graduates will add value to any company they work for because AI is now universally relevant. It’s also especially important to point out that people who do not have a technical background have just as much of a stake in the future of AI as those who do have one. Many companies are racing to grapple with market opportunities and challenges presented by AI, which means employees of the future who understand the capabilities of AI will have the edge. Companies will turn to programmes like MAAIES to find the next generation of talent.  We have accelerated the launch of this programme to meet market demand. I look forward to welcoming our first cohort this Fall.”

Students will also have the opportunity to engage with cutting-edge research and innovation through HKU's AI&Humanity Lab.  They will have access to leading scholars and engage in discussions with visitors from around the world.  Regular talks and presentations from experts in the field will also provide a platform for students to expand their knowledge and explore the intersection of artificial intelligence and society.

Dr. Rachel Katharine Sterken, Associate Professor of Philosophy, Chairperson of the Department of Philosophy says:
“An MA programme in AI, Ethics and Society can provide numerous benefits to students, both personally and professionally.  Students in this programme will learn about the ethical and social implications of AI, gaining a deep understanding of the potential risks and benefits of this technology.  They will also learn about the legal and regulatory frameworks that govern AI, as well as some of the relevant technical aspects of AI development and deployment.  By studying AI, Ethics and Society, students will be equipped with the skills and knowledge necessary to navigate the complex ethical and social issues surrounding AI, making them well-equipped to take on roles where these are relevant in industry, government, and academia.  The core values of this programme include a commitment to collaboration, transparency, and accountability, ensuring that students are well-prepared to work in interdisciplinary teams and communicate effectively across different domains.  This programme is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the complex and multifaceted issues surrounding AI, enabling them to make informed decisions that will have a positive impact on society.  In short, an MA programme in AI, Ethics and Society can provide students with the knowledge, skills, and values necessary to succeed in a world where AI is increasingly central to our lives.”

Leading scholars (https://www.maaies.arts.hku.hk/people) headed by Professor Herman Cappelen will run the MAAIES programme.

Online Information Sessions will be held for interested applicants to learn more about the Programme according to the schedule below:

July 4, 2023 (Tuesday), at 5 p.m. (HK Time), Via Zoom
July 10, 2023 (Monday) at 5 p.m. (HK Time), Via Zoom

Registration link: https://hkuems1.hku.hk/hkuems/ec_hdetail.aspx?guest=Y&ueid=88631

The programme is set to begin in the fall of 2023.  For more information and to apply:
- MA in AI, Ethics and Society programme, please visit https://www.maaies.arts.hku.hk/.
- AI&Humanity Lab, please visit: https://ai-humanity.net/

For media enquiries or individual interview requests, please contact Ms Natalie Yip, Executive Officer, Development and Communications team, Faculty of Arts, Tel: (852) 3917 4984 / email: natalie.yip@hku.hk.