Ontario Tech launches Canada’s first and only School of Ethical Artificial Intelligence

OSHAWA, ONTARIO — Ontario Tech University is making history with the launch of Canada’s first and only school of Ethical Artificial Intelligence (SEAI)—a groundbreaking step that emphasizes AI governance while embracing the fourth industrial revolution. This transformative initiative underscores Ontario Tech’s commitment to “Tech with a Conscience”, ensuring innovation serves humanity and the planet.

“Ontario Tech’s school of AI is the first of its kind in Canada—built to lead a future where ethically designed artificial intelligence advances human potential, strengthens industry, and builds public trust,” says Steven Murphy, President and Vice-Chancellor. “AI will define this century’s progress, and we must move decisively to shape it, and ensure it is serving humanity and our planet.” 

Ethical by design

Anchored in the university’s ethical innovation ethos, the school of Ethical AI champions the principle that technology must serve people—not replace or diminish them. Every program, research initiative, and partnership within the school will focus on ensuring AI systems are designed with privacy, data protection, and an unwavering focus on minimizing algorithmic bias. In partnership with the Mindful Artificial Intelligence Research Institute (MAIRI), the school will drive the development of AI governance standards and national policy frameworks, advancing Ontario and Canada’s leadership in ethically designed and executed AI.

Interdisciplinary excellence

Reflecting the belief that ethically designed AI requires diverse perspectives, the school unites experts across engineering, business, health sciences, education, communication, and social science. This interdisciplinary collaboration fosters innovation grounded in empathy and improving our world. Students will graduate not only as technical experts, but as ethical leaders—individuals equipped to question, design, diagnose and deploy AI technologies that promote fairness, inclusion, and the well-being of humans and our planet.

The school will accelerate the creation of new pathways, specialized programs, and micro-credentials that meet evolving industry and policy needs. Students will gain technical expertise alongside a deeper understanding of the societal impacts of AI, equipping them as responsible leaders in a rapidly evolving landscape.

Best-in-class AI curriculum

Ontario Tech currently offers one of Canada’s most comprehensive AI curriculums, featuring more than 66 AI-focused courses across six faculties. Flagship programs include:

• Master of Business Analytics in AI (MBAI) – Canada’s first and only business master’s program specializing in AI.
• Master of IT Security – AI in Security (MITS-AIS) – A leading-edge program tackling emerging AI-driven cybersecurity challenges and threats.

Students also gain hands-on experience through co-ops and internships with more than 350 industry and community partners, helping them apply various governance frameworks in real-world AI settings.

An investment in Canada’s AI ecosystem

Through courses, research, and applied learning experiences, graduates of the university will leave understanding that AI is more than a tool; it is a shared responsibility. These leaders will position Canada as a pragmatic, yet principled leader, in AI governance through our unwavering commitment to responsible AI development and ethics by design.

This milestone cements Ontario Tech University’s position as a global leader in ethical and human-centred innovation, ensuring Canada remains at the forefront of a global movement where technology is guided by conscience, compassion, and the heavy lifting that ensures AI is governed to improve lives and our planet.

Media contact
Melissa Ramirez
Communications and Marketing
Ontario Tech University
289.928.0268
melissa.ramirez@ontariotechu.ca