Feb. 18, 2026

Seneca Polytechnic has officially welcomed the first cohort of students into its Master of Artificial Intelligence Design & Development program, a significant milestone for the institution and Ontario’s college and polytechnic sector. This is Seneca’s first-ever master’s degree and the first of its kind offered by any college or polytechnic in Ontario.

Students attend classes at Seneca’s Newnham Campus and virtually, including many international learners who have come specifically for this unique opportunity. Their presence reflects the program’s global appeal and Seneca’s commitment to fostering diversity and innovation.

Admissions criteria for this master’s degree recognizes both academic credentials and relevant professional experience, allowing a diverse range of applicants to qualify. Anish Dasgupta, a student in the program’s first cohort, has more than a decade of experience in data engineering, data governance and data management. He was drawn to the program’s blend of applied learning and rigorous theoretical study.

“I was seeking a program that would help me expand into AI-driven solution design,” Mr. Dasgupta said. “Seneca’s emphasis on hands-on learning, real-world projects and strong industry alignment made it a compelling choice for future-focused upskilling and innovation.”

Seneca President David Agnew called the launch “an historic moment for Seneca,” emphasizing that the program reflects the institution’s commitment to innovation, applied research and industry collaboration. “Our graduates will be job-ready and prepared to lead in the AI-driven economy,” he said.

The two-year program, which was originally announced in September 2025, features a hybrid delivery model that offers the flexibility to learn both online and in-person. It combines advanced AI theory with practical, industry-driven experience, including 840 hours of Work-Integrated Learning. Students will gain expertise in areas such as machine learning, natural language processing, computer vision and AI ethics, preparing them for roles such as machine learning engineer, data scientist and AI manager.

Mr. Dasgupta hopes to use the program as a springboard to opportunities in artificial intelligence research and development. He says that he has had a “very positive” start at Seneca, thanks to the expertise of the faculty.

“I’ve found the learning environment to be collaborative and engaging, with professors  who bring strong academic knowledge along with practical industry experience,” he said. “Overall, the program feels challenging, forward-looking and highly aligned with the evolving AI landscape.”

Unlike some graduate degrees, this program emphasizes experiential learning and provides greater industry exposure, including two internships in the second year to ensure real-world application. To support students financially, Seneca has also introduced scholarship incentives for both domestic and international students, reinforcing its commitment to supporting learners on their academic and career journeys.

The debut of the Master of Artificial Intelligence Design & Development program signals Seneca’s continued evolution as a leader in applied, technology-driven education. With demand for AI professionals continuing to surge globally, this program positions graduates to lead in an AI-driven economy.

Applications for future intakes are already open. For details on admission and curriculum, visit senecapolytechnic.ca.