Easiest Online AI Degree Programs To Get Into 2026

Artificial intelligence is no longer limited to elite computer science programs or highly selective universities. As AI skills become more relevant across industries, many colleges have redesigned their online degree programs to reduce traditional admissions barriers while still maintaining academic standards.

The easiest online AI degree programs to get into focus on accessibility rather than exclusivity. These programs are designed for working adults, transfer students, and career changers who may not have followed a traditional academic path but still want to build AI-related skills through structured, accredited online education.

What Makes an Online AI Degree Program “Easy” to Get Into?

When we describe an online AI degree program as easy to get into, we are referring to how accessible the admissions process is, not how demanding the coursework will be. These programs typically reduce common barriers such as standardized testing, competitive GPA thresholds, or lengthy application requirements that can discourage qualified learners from applying.

Many easy-entry AI degree programs offer open enrollment, test-optional admissions, or alternative pathways that allow students to demonstrate readiness through coursework instead of prior academic performance. Others are designed specifically for adult learners and online students, with streamlined applications, generous transfer policies, and support services that help new students transition into technical fields like artificial intelligence.

Easiest Online AI Degree Programs To Get Into

The programs below offer online artificial intelligence degrees with admissions processes designed to be more accessible than traditional computer science pathways. These schools stand out for flexible entry requirements, alternative admissions options, and strong support for online learners.

1. Western Governors University

Built around a competency-based learning model, Western Governors University provides a bachelor’s pathway into artificial intelligence through its Bachelor of Science (BS) in computer science. Admission is open to students with a high school diploma or GED, along with a short technology readiness assessment, making entry far more accessible than traditional computer science programs.

Once enrolled, students move through coursework by demonstrating mastery rather than following fixed academic terms. This structure allows motivated learners to progress quickly into AI-related material without facing standardized testing or competitive admissions hurdles.

• Program length: Varies; many students finish in less than 4 years
• Accreditation: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU)

2. Southern New Hampshire University

With a high acceptance rate and a test-optional admissions process, Southern New Hampshire University makes it easier for students to begin an AI-focused degree online. Learners can pursue a BS in computer science with an artificial intelligence concentration without submitting SAT or ACT scores.

Multiple start dates and a streamlined application process reduce delays between applying and enrolling. This approach works well for working adults and transfer students who want to enter an AI-related degree path with minimal administrative barriers.

• Program length: 4 years
• Accreditation: New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE)

3. University of Maryland Global Campus

Designed specifically for adult learners, the University of Maryland Global Campus follows an open admissions model for its online undergraduate programs. Students interested in artificial intelligence can enroll without entrance exams or complex application requirements.

This accessible structure allows learners to focus on building technical skills rather than navigating admissions obstacles. Flexible online delivery and strong transfer policies further support students entering artificial intelligence education later in their academic or professional lives.

• Program length: 4 years
• Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)

4. Arizona State University Online

Instead of relying solely on GPA thresholds, Arizona State University (ASU) Online uses an Earned Admission pathway for its BS in artificial intelligence. Students who do not initially meet standard requirements can complete specific online courses to demonstrate readiness for the program.

This model creates an alternative route into a well-established AI degree while maintaining academic expectations. For learners with uneven academic histories, ASU Online offers a structured and supportive entry point.

• Program length: 4 years
• Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)

5. Colorado State University Global

Focused entirely on online education, Colorado State University (CSU) Global removes several common admissions barriers for AI-related computer science programs. Applicants are not required to submit standardized test scores, and the university does not charge an application fee.

Admissions emphasize preparedness rather than selectivity, making CSU Global appealing to students entering artificial intelligence from diverse academic backgrounds. Fully online coursework and clear transfer guidelines further simplify the enrollment process.

• Program length: 4 years
• Accreditation: HLC

6. Indiana University Online

Indiana University Online provides a Bachelor of Arts (BA) in artificial intelligence with a more traditional academic structure, paired with relatively accessible admissions for online learners. Acceptance rates for online programs tend to be higher than for flagship on-campus options.

This balance allows students to earn an AI-focused degree from a recognizable public institution without facing highly competitive entry requirements. Online delivery also supports flexible scheduling for learners managing work or family obligations.

• Program length: 4 years
• Accreditation: HLC

7. Maryville University

A streamlined application process makes Maryville University an approachable option for students interested in artificial intelligence. The university does not require entrance exams or application fees for its BS in data science, which includes an AI-focused track.

Courses are structured to support students who may be new to technical disciplines while still developing applied AI and data skills. This combination of accessibility and career-oriented learning helps ease the transition into artificial intelligence coursework.

• Program length: 4 years
• Accreditation: HLC

8. Texas Tech University Online

As a newer entrant in AI education, Texas Tech University Online has designed its BS in human-centered artificial intelligence with enrollment growth in mind. Admissions requirements are straightforward, and transfer policies are designed to reduce friction for incoming students.

This flexibility can benefit learners returning to school or transferring from other institutions. The program maintains a structured curriculum while lowering common administrative barriers associated with selective technology programs.

• Program length: 4 years
• Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)

9. University of Arizona Global Campus

Open enrollment and a very high acceptance rate define the admissions model at the University of Arizona Global Campus. Online students are not required to submit standardized test scores, allowing qualified applicants to move quickly into coursework.

Frequent start dates and fully online delivery make enrollment especially accessible for career changers and adult learners. This structure supports faster entry into AI-related studies without prolonged admissions timelines.

• Program length: 4 years
• Accreditation: HLC

10. University of Colorado Boulder (via Coursera)

Rather than using a traditional graduate admissions process, the University of Colorado Boulder relies on a performance-based pathway for its online AI-focused master’s option. Students earn admission by completing designated pathway courses and achieving a B or higher.

This approach eliminates requirements such as transcripts, recommendation letters, or standardized tests. For learners confident in their academic ability, it provides a highly accessible route into a graduate-level artificial intelligence program.

• Program length: 2 to 3 years
• Accreditation: HLC

How We Rank Schools

To create this list, we review data from the U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard and the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), along with program-level details published by each university.

To rank the easiest online AI degree programs to get into, we focused on how accessible each school’s admissions process is for online learners rather than overall selectivity or institutional prestige. Our goal was to highlight programs that remove unnecessary barriers while still offering accredited, career-relevant artificial intelligence education.

• Admissions requirements: Preference was given to programs with open enrollment, test-optional policies, or minimal GPA thresholds.
• Alternative entry pathways: Schools offering earned admission, performance-based entry, or competency-based progression ranked higher.
• Application simplicity: Programs with fewer required materials, no application fees, or rolling start dates were prioritized.
• Support for online learners: Institutions that clearly design admissions and onboarding for adult learners, transfer students, and career changers received stronger consideration.

Who These Programs Are Best For

The easiest online AI degree programs are best for learners who want to enter the artificial intelligence field without navigating highly competitive or test-heavy admissions processes. This includes working adults, transfer students, career changers, and learners who may not have a strong academic record from earlier college experience but are motivated to build technical skills now.

These programs can also be a good fit if you are new to computer science and want structured support as you move into AI-related coursework. Schools with flexible admissions and strong onboarding often provide advising, tutoring, and pacing models that help students transition successfully into more technical areas of study.

Do Easier Admissions Affect Career Outcomes?

Easier admissions do not automatically mean weaker career outcomes, especially when programs are offered by accredited institutions with industry-aligned curricula. Employers typically focus on skills, experience, and degree completion rather than how selective a program’s admissions process was.

Many AI roles value demonstrated ability in programming, data analysis, and problem-solving over admissions credentials. Graduates who build strong portfolios, complete applied projects, and gain hands-on experience through coursework can be competitive in the job market regardless of how easy the program was to enter.

Financial Aid and Support for New AI Students

Starting an artificial intelligence degree can feel intimidating, especially if you are new to technical fields or returning to school after time away. Many easy-entry online AI degree programs participate in federal, state, and institutional financial aid programs that help reduce upfront costs while also offering academic support services for new students.

Common financial aid and support options include:

• Federal student aid: Eligible students may qualify for federal grants or student loans by completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid, which can help cover tuition and related expenses.
• Institutional scholarships: Some schools offer scholarships specifically for online learners, adult students, or those enrolling in computer science and technology programs.
• Employer education benefits: Many employers provide tuition assistance for degrees related to technology, data, or artificial intelligence, especially when skills apply directly to workplace needs.
• Academic support services: Advising, tutoring, and onboarding resources are often built into easy-entry programs to help students succeed in technical coursework from the start.

FAQs About Easy-Entry AI Degree Programs

Students exploring accessible online artificial intelligence degrees often have questions about preparedness, workload, and long-term value. The FAQs below address common concerns for learners considering programs with flexible admissions.

Do You Need a Strong Math or Programming Background to Get Started?

Many easy-entry AI degree programs are designed for beginners and do not require advanced math or programming experience at admission. Foundational courses typically introduce concepts gradually, helping students build skills before moving into more advanced AI coursework.

Are These Programs Really Easier, or Just Easier to Apply To?

These programs are easier to apply to, not easier academically. Coursework still requires consistent effort, problem-solving, and time management, especially as students progress into advanced artificial intelligence topics.

Can You Transfer Credits Into an Easy-Entry AI Degree Program?

Yes, many of these programs accept transfer credits from prior college coursework, which can reduce time to completion. Transfer-friendly policies are especially common at schools designed for adult learners and online students.

Will Employers Take an Easy-Entry AI Degree Seriously?

Employers typically care more about accreditation, skills, and completed projects than admissions selectivity. Graduates who can demonstrate technical competence and real-world application of AI concepts are often viewed as competitive candidates.

Explore Online AI Degrees

Easy-entry online AI degree programs can help you start building artificial intelligence skills without navigating restrictive admissions requirements. To compare programs, explore career paths, and request information, continue your research through Learn.org.