Halmstad’s first AI students set to graduate
This week, the very first group of students from the programme Applied Artificial Intelligence at Halmstad University are graduating. It marks a historic milestone both for the University and the students who chose to focus on AI three years ago – before ChatGPT was launched and kickstarted the global AI boom.
“It feels great to finally be done after all this time.”
Caj Norlén, graduating student from the programme Applied Artificial Intelligence (AI)
The programme Applied Artificial Intelligence (AI) started in autumn 2022. Now, three years later, the first cohort is ready to graduate. On 5 June, the occasion will be celebrated with a programme degree assembly on campus and a grand graduation ceremony at Halmstad Arena.
Programme Director Hadi Fanaee finds it deeply meaningful that the students are now entering the world equipped to contribute to industry, research, and society.
“I feel incredibly proud as our first students are now graduating. They have grown tremendously – both technically and in their understanding of AI’s ethical dimensions, which are so important today. I’m convinced they will make a real difference and be excellent ambassadors for the programme”, says Hadi Fanaee.
Dared to try something new
Caj Norlén is one of the students graduating from the programme. In spring 2022, he decided to prioritise Halmstad University over more well-known institutions like the Royal Institute of Technology and Stockholm University and applied to the newly launched programme instead.
“I wanted to dive into mathematics, statistics, and machine learning. I looked at many programmes at different universities, but this was the only one that exactly matched what I wanted to learn – and it was at the bachelor’s level”, says Caj Norlén.
The programme, Caj Norlén describes, is both well-structured and challenging. It began with basic engineering mathematics – linear algebra, data analysis and probability theory – which later enabled a deeper understanding of AI and machine learning.
“The highlight for me was the course ‘Principles and Techniques of Data Science’ with Hadi Fanaee in the third semester. That was when everything we had learnt came together, and I really saw the big picture”, says Caj Norlén.
Caj Norlén studied a social sciences programme in upper secondary school and therefore needed to take additional mathematics courses to meet the entry requirements for the programme.
From student to AI Engineer
After three intensive years, Caj Norlén is now about to complete his bachelor’s degree in Data Science.
“It feels great to finally be done after all this time”, says Caj Norlén.
Even before graduating, Caj Norlén has stepped into his new role as an AI engineer at PostNord in Stockholm. He works in a newly formed team that develops agent-based AI to automate and streamline operations.
“It’s an incredibly exciting field. We are exploring solutions where intelligent agents can take over manual tasks, for example, in customer service”, explains Caj Norlén, and adds:
“If I had discovered this field earlier in life, I would have loved to pursue a master’s and maybe even go into research. Machine learning is so interesting and constantly evolving!”
“One of the most dynamic and significant fields of our time”
This autumn, a new group of students will begin the programme, something Hadi Fanaee looks forward to:
“It will be exciting to meet curious and motivated students who have chosen to enter one of the most dynamic and significant fields of our time – applied AI. A warm welcome to the community! We will support you throughout your journey.”
Before Caj Norlén leaves student life in Halmstad for good, he has some advice for new students:
“Don’t skip the theory. It can feel tough at first, but without a solid foundation in maths and statistics, it is hard to understand the models and algorithms that drive AI. And above all – be curious. Curiosity is what moves you forward, both during your studies and in your career.”
Graduation ceremony at Halmstad Arena
The traditional graduation ceremony will be held on 5 June and welcomes both students and their families. The event begins with the students entering the stage and taking their seats on the arena floor. The programme includes inspiring speeches and awards:
- Speech by Vice-Chancellor Susanna Öhman
- Presentation of the Alumnus/Alumna of the Year award
- Presentation of the Student of the Year award
- Speech by the Student Union President, Felicia Jakobsson
Many programmes also hold smaller gatherings to say goodbye and celebrate before the main ceremony. In previous years, students and staff have chosen to meet for breakfast, lunch, or dinner during the final week, or to mark the occasion with more traditional events in one of the University’s venues.
Text and photo: Katarina Tran
More information
Applied Artificial Intelligence (AI), 180 ETCS (in Swedish only)
