SDSU enhances AI leadership with rollout of OpenAI’s ChatGPT Edu

San Diego State University is taking a significant step toward improving access to artificial intelligence (AI) tools. A new partnership between the California State University (CSU) Chancellor’s Office and OpenAI provides students, faculty and staff with no-cost access to ChatGPT Edu, a version of the massively popular generative AI tool designed specifically for higher education. 

The Edu workspace employs powerful GPT-4o technology typically reserved for ChatGPT’s paid subscribers, including enhanced data security and key privacy features. All personal and university data will stay within SDSU’s Edu workspace and not be used to train ChatGPT’s public-facing large language model (LLM).

Familiarity with AI technology is increasingly essential to students' career readiness. OpenAI reports that California is among the top five states in the country for adoption of ChatGPT by those between the ages of 18 and 24. In SDSU’s most recent AI survey, more than 80% of SDSU students said they were already using ChatGPT. 

According to an OpenAI survey, the most common uses of AI for college students are starting papers and projects, summarizing texts, exploring topics, and brainstorming creative ideas. The tool can also aid in some day-to-day work for employees, enhancing efficiency, streamlining workflows, and supporting daily tasks.

Rolling out the premium functionality of ChatGPT Edu at no cost to users aligns with the CSU system’s commitment to responsibly, ethically, equitably and sustainably leverage innovative technologies to empower its people.

“We’re putting the power of AI directly into the hands of our community members, giving them the ability to work smarter, think bigger and push the boundaries of innovation,” said James Frazee, SDSU vice president for Information Technology and Chief Information Officer. “Whether it’s streamlining tasks, generating fresh ideas or tackling complex challenges, this technology amplifies our creativity, productivity and collaboration.”  

In 2023, SDSU became the first of the CSU’s 23 universities to launch an AI microcredential program, with tailored versions for faculty, staff and students. The program provides information on effectively employing AI tools and their ethical, responsible and sustainable use. SDSU conducted one of the largest surveys about AI in higher education in order to learn about students’ AI tool usage, as well as their opinions and expectations for the university. 

The survey was replicated in 2024, and expanded to include faculty and staff. The data from both rounds was used to inform the design of the micro-credential. Frazee said that because the AI field is rapidly evolving, the micro-credential curriculum will always be a work in progress. 

“The micro-credential will need to evolve, and we are committed to keeping it up-to-date and relevant,” Frazee said. “We are also exploring offering more specialized AI micro-credentials, for example, focusing on environmental responsibility.” 

AI is emerging as a transformative force, influencing industries comparable to past technological breakthroughs like the internet and mobile communications, Frazee said.

"Equipping our graduates with AI expertise enables them to lead innovation, adapt to an evolving workforce, and build successful careers,” said Frazee. “While the potential is immense, we must also approach this technology cautiously and thoughtfully, ensuring responsible, ethical, and impactful applications."