UNC-Chapel Hill ranks among nation's top universities for AI readiness

Carolina ranks sixth among public universities and ties for 11th nationally in an index recognizing AI education, research and institutional leadership. 

CHAPEL HILL, N.C., Nov. 5, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill ranks among the nation's top universities for artificial intelligence readiness, placing sixth among public institutions, first in North Carolina and 11th nationally in the 2026 AIREDEX AI Readiness Index. The independent index examines how colleges and universities are preparing students for an AI-driven future.

"Carolina has a responsibility to help our students prepare for the changes artificial intelligence is bringing to their lives and careers," said Chancellor Lee H. Roberts. "This recognition reflects the outstanding work of faculty and staff to meet that responsibility and put this technology to work in service to the people of North Carolina." 

Carolina earned a score of 9.2 out of 10, including A+ grades for its AI curriculum and research. Using publicly available information, the index evaluates universities in four areas: institutional commitment, curriculum, partnerships and research. Carolina's assessment highlights undergraduate opportunities in AI education and research, access to emerging technologies and university-wide efforts to guide the responsible use of AI. 

"AI is changing how we learn, work and solve problems," said Saif Khairat, UNC-Chapel Hill's chief artificial intelligence officer and vice provost for AI. "That means more than teaching students to use AI tools. It means helping them understand the technology, recognize its limitations and use it responsibly. Our goal is to help students use AI thoughtfully and confidently in ways that prepare them for the future and serve the communities around them." 

Khairat is the featured guest on the Nov. 4 episode of Well Said, UNC-Chapel Hill's podcast. 

Read Carolina's AIREDEX assessment and learn more about AI at UNC. 

Please email mediarelations@unc.edu if you'd like to learn more or speak with Khairat. 

SOURCE University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill Office of Communications