Artificial Intelligence (AI) is reshaping business. But real transformation depends on people. This major equips managers to deploy, govern, and scale AI with a human-centered approach – individually, across processes, and into new business models. No coding required. 

As artificial intelligence transforms how we live, work, and decide, businesses need more than tech expertise – they need managers who understand the human and organisational side of technology, who can confidently integrate AI into their own and their teams’ work, and who make value-driven, ethical decisions for their companies. 

The Major in AI Business Leadership equips you to lead at the intersection of business strategy, technology, and people. You will explore how AI can reshape organisations – from business innovations, marketing, and operations to HR and finance – and learn how to translate technological innovation into meaningful business value.

Our interdisciplinary and applied teaching model combines real-world AI use cases, strategy labs, and case-based learning. You will work closely with experienced faculty, visiting experts, and industry partners from across Switzerland ("Global Innovation Index") and Europe’s thriving digital ecosystems.

Whether your goal is to step into general management with an enhanced AI-skillset, drive digital transformation, develop responsible AI products, or lead human-AI teams, this major empowers you to shape the future.

We are convinced that the AI era requires more than technical skills – it requires trust, hope, and a commitment to human-centered innovation. Join us on this journey!

Details:

Time model

• full-time, part-time and work-study
• The majority of lectures take place on two days of the week on which attendance is required (currently Monday and Tuesday).

Tuition fees

• Annual tuition for Swiss students: CHF 1,600
• Annual tuition EEA: CHF 2,600
• Annual tuition non-EEA: CHF 2,600  

Duration

• 2 years (standard duration of studies)
• It is possible to complete the programme in 3 semesters or up to 6 semesters

Four reasons for the Major:

• The Manager’s AI Playbook: A clear, manager-first approach to making AI work in practice. Learn to see where AI creates value, weave it into everyday workflows, and lead human–AI teams with clarity and integrity. Become the translator between strategy, people, and data—and the person who turns potential into impact.
• Application-Focused Technical Understanding: You don’t need to be a coder to lead in an AI-driven world. This major gives you the data and AI literacy you need to make smart, strategic decisions – and to collaborate effectively with technical experts.
• Gateway to a Rapidly Expanding Field: From digital transformation lead, to innovation strategist, to general manager in an AI-first organisation – graduates are in high demand. This major opens doors across industries where AI and digital change drive competitive advantage.
• Central Switzerland: Driving Digital Innovation: Switzerland ranks #1 in the Global Innovation Index for the 14th year in a row (2024) [WIPO]. Central Switzerland – home to HSLU – is part of this success, with a dynamic ecosystem of AI startups, tech firms, and research institutions.

What you’ll learn:

• Technological Foundations: Build a working understanding of how key technologies like machine learning, automation, and data pipelines function – so you can lead confidently, even without a coding background.
• Humans & Organisations: Master how to collaborate and influence in AI-enabled environments: design roles and skills for human–AI teaming, lead change, and create the conditions for adoption across your teams.
• Business Processes: Identify high-value use cases, redesign workflows, and guide solutions from pilot to everyday practice. Learn to align data, systems, and stakeholders so improvements stick and scale.
• AI & Innovation: Explore how AI enables new products, services, and revenue models. Connect technological potential to strategy and market positioning to create meaningful business value.
• Ethics, Law & Society (across all levels): Understand and navigate the ethical, societal, and regulatory landscape of AI – building responsible practices and governance into decisions from day one. 

Career prospects:

Graduates typically take on roles as:

Generalist managers

in AI or tech-dense companies across all industries, as well as any organisation that is touched by AI.

Specialists

who can bridge between management, data, and technology, such as:

• AI- and Data-driven innovation management
• Product Leadership in AI-enabled companies
• AI-transformation lead
• Strategy & AI consultant
• AI Governance & Compliance Manager
• Digital Business- / Research Developer
• Innovation- / AI Consultant
• Head of AI Transformation