Easiest Online AI Master's Programs To Get Into 2026

Artificial intelligence master’s programs are often associated with highly selective admissions, advanced math requirements, and competitive applicant pools. While some programs do follow that model, many universities now offer online AI master’s degrees designed to be more accessible for working professionals and career changers.

The easiest online AI master’s programs to get into focus on reducing admissions barriers rather than lowering academic standards. These degrees typically emphasize professional experience, flexible entry pathways, and practical applications of artificial intelligence, making graduate-level AI education more attainable for a wider range of students.

What Makes an AI Master’s Program Easier to Get Into?

Ease of entry at the master’s level usually comes down to how programs evaluate applicants, not how challenging the coursework is once enrolled. Schools on this list prioritize access by removing traditional gatekeepers that can slow or discourage qualified candidates.

Common features of more accessible AI master’s programs include no GRE or GMAT requirements, rolling admissions, and performance-based or pathway entry options. Many programs also focus on applied learning rather than research-heavy preparation, which can reduce prerequisite barriers for students without a formal computer science background.

Easiest Online AI Master’s Programs

The programs below stand out for their streamlined admissions processes, flexible entry requirements, and focus on professional readiness. These online AI master’s degrees are well suited for students who want to begin graduate study without navigating highly competitive or restrictive application hurdles.

1. University of Colorado Boulder

The University of Colorado Boulder (CU Boulder) offers one of the most accessible pathways into a graduate-level artificial intelligence program through its performance-based admission model. Instead of submitting a traditional application upfront, students can begin coursework immediately and earn formal admission by successfully completing initial pathway courses.

This approach removes common barriers such as transcripts, letters of recommendation, and standardized test scores, while still maintaining graduate-level rigor. For students who want to demonstrate readiness through performance rather than paperwork, CU Boulder provides a clear and low-friction entry point into an online AI master’s degree.

• Program length: Typically 1.5 to 2 years
• Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)

2. Eastern University

Eastern University’s Master of Science (MS) in applied artificial intelligence is structured to be welcoming to professionals who may not have followed a traditional computer science academic path. The program does not require GRE or GMAT scores and places greater value on practical experience and career readiness.

In addition to accessible admissions, Eastern’s clear prerequisites and straightforward application process make it easier for students to understand exactly what is expected before enrolling. This combination of transparency, flexibility, and affordability helps lower the barrier to entry while still offering a focused, applied AI curriculum.

• Program length: About 1.5 years
• Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)

3. Maryville University

Maryville University approaches admissions for its MS in artificial intelligence and machine learning with a strong emphasis on professional readiness rather than standardized testing. Applicants are not required to submit GRE or GMAT scores, which helps remove a common obstacle for experienced professionals returning to graduate school.

The program is designed for flexibility, with multiple start dates throughout the year and an online format that supports students balancing work and family responsibilities. By prioritizing experience and clear prerequisites, Maryville makes graduate-level AI study more approachable without compromising academic expectations.

• Program length: About 1.5 to 2 years
• Accreditation: HLC

4. Colorado State University Global

Colorado State University (CSU) Global was built specifically for adult learners, and its admissions process reflects that mission. The university does not require GRE scores and offers rolling admissions, allowing students to apply and start without waiting for a single annual intake.

CSU Global’s artificial intelligence and machine learning master’s program focuses on applied skills and career relevance rather than research-heavy preparation. This structure can be especially helpful for students with professional experience who want to move directly into graduate coursework without navigating complex or competitive admissions requirements.

• Program length: About 1.5 to 2 years
• Accreditation: HLC

5. Illinois Institute of Technology

Illinois Institute of Technology offers a Master of Artificial Intelligence with a performance-based admission option designed to make entry more accessible for qualified learners. Through its Coursera-hosted pathway, students can begin coursework and earn full admission by successfully completing designated classes, rather than navigating a traditional application upfront.

This model allows applicants to demonstrate readiness through academic performance instead of test scores or lengthy documentation. For students who may not have a perfect academic record but can handle graduate-level AI coursework, Illinois Tech provides a flexible and transparent entry route.

• Program length: About 1.5 to 2 years
• Accreditation: HLC

6. University of North Texas

The University of North Texas (UNT) offers an MS in artificial intelligence through a public university known for accessibility and transfer-friendly policies. Compared with elite private technology schools, UNT maintains a more inclusive admissions profile while still delivering a structured, computer science–grounded AI curriculum.

Applicants benefit from clear prerequisites and a straightforward admissions process that does not rely on standardized test scores for most students. This makes UNT a practical option for learners seeking a recognized public university degree without the pressure of highly selective entry requirements.

• Program length: About 2 years
• Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)

7. Drexel University

Drexel University’s MS in artificial intelligence and machine learning is designed with working professionals in mind, and its admissions process reflects that focus. The program often waives GRE requirements for qualified applicants and places strong weight on professional background and prior coursework.

This approach makes the application process more approachable for students who may have industry experience but limited formal research credentials. Drexel’s focus on practical, industry-aligned AI skills further supports students who want to transition directly into applied roles after graduation.

• Program length: About 2 years
• Accreditation: MSCHE

8. University of San Diego

The University of San Diego (USD) offers a fully online MS in applied artificial intelligence built for immediate workforce application. Admissions are streamlined, with no standardized test requirements and an emphasis on readiness for applied AI coursework rather than academic pedigree.

Because the program is asynchronous and designed for professionals, students can begin without relocating or restructuring their schedules. This combination of flexible delivery and accessible admissions makes USD a strong choice for learners seeking a clear, low-barrier path into graduate AI study.

• Program length: About 20 months
• Accreditation: WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC)

9. University of Texas at San Antonio

The University of Texas (UT) at San Antonio offers an MS in artificial intelligence designed to broaden access to graduate-level AI education within a public university system. The program emphasizes inclusivity and regional accessibility, making it a practical option for students from a wide range of academic and professional backgrounds.

Admissions are structured to be approachable, with clear prerequisites and no heavy reliance on standardized testing. As a growing program, UT San Antonio focuses on applied AI skills while maintaining the credibility of a state research university.

• Program length: About 2 years
• Accreditation: SACSCOC

10. New Jersey Institute of Technology

New Jersey Institute of Technology (NJIT) offers an MS in artificial intelligence with an admissions process that prioritizes readiness for applied graduate study rather than research credentials alone. The program is a great fit for professionals seeking a technical AI degree without navigating highly selective or research-driven application hurdles.

NJIT’s online format is asynchronous and structured, allowing students to progress through coursework without rigid scheduling constraints. This combination of practical focus and flexible delivery makes the program more approachable for students balancing graduate study with work or other responsibilities.

• Program length: About 1.5 to 2 years
• Accreditation: MSCHE

How We Rank Online AI Master’s Programs

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. This approach allows us to compare artificial intelligence master’s programs using consistent benchmarks while also accounting for how each program is structured.

Because this article focuses on accessibility, our ranking criteria prioritize admissions flexibility and student readiness over selectivity. Each program on this list maintains institutional accreditation and graduate-level rigor while reducing unnecessary barriers to entry.

• Admissions accessibility: Preference was given to programs with no GRE or GMAT requirements, performance-based pathways, or rolling admissions.
• Program structure: We prioritized degrees designed for working professionals, including asynchronous delivery and applied curricula.
• Accreditation: All programs hold recognized institutional accreditation to support academic quality and federal financial aid eligibility.
• Career relevance: Programs emphasize practical AI applications that align with real-world professional roles rather than research-only preparation.

What Makes an AI Master’s Program Easier to Get Into?

Ease of entry at the graduate level is usually tied to how programs evaluate readiness, not to lower academic standards. The programs below remove common friction points while still expecting students to meet graduate-level expectations once enrolled.

Fewer Admissions Gatekeepers

Many accessible AI master’s programs eliminate standardized test requirements and lengthy application steps. Performance-based admission models and experience-forward evaluations allow students to demonstrate capability through coursework rather than credentials alone.

Clear Prerequisites and Expectations

Programs that are easier to enter typically publish straightforward prerequisite requirements and avoid hidden math or programming expectations. This transparency helps applicants understand whether they are prepared before committing time or money to the application process.

Professional-Focused Program Design

Rather than emphasizing academic research, these programs focus on applied AI skills used in industry settings. This structure often makes graduate study more approachable for professionals without a traditional computer science degree.

Who Is a Good Fit for an Accessible AI Master’s Program?

Accessible AI master’s programs are designed for students who may be strong candidates academically or professionally but want a smoother entry point into graduate study. Understanding who benefits most can help set realistic expectations.

Working Professionals and Career Changers

Many students in these programs are already working in technology, analytics, or adjacent fields. Flexible admissions and applied curricula allow them to build advanced AI skills without stepping away from their careers.

Students Without a Traditional Computer Science Background

Applicants with degrees in business, engineering, information systems, or applied sciences may find these programs more approachable. Introductory or scaffolded coursework can help bridge gaps in formal computer science training.

Learners Seeking Structure Without Selectivity

These programs appeal to students who want a clear academic pathway without competing for limited seats. While coursework remains rigorous, the admissions process itself is designed to be welcoming rather than restrictive.

Career Outcomes With an Accessible AI Master’s Degree

Graduates of accessible online AI master’s programs often move into the same roles as those from more selective programs, especially when their degrees emphasize applied skills and real-world use cases. These programs are commonly designed for professionals who want to advance into AI-focused roles without spending years navigating competitive admissions pipelines.

Salary data reflects the strong demand for graduate-level AI expertise. According to PayScale, professionals with a master’s degree in artificial intelligence earn an average annual salary of about $102,000, though earnings vary based on role, experience, and industry. Positions that combine AI skills with software development, data analysis, or leadership responsibilities often command higher compensation as experience grows.

Long-term demand also remains favorable. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that employment for software developers and related computer science occupations will grow much faster than the average for all jobs over the next decade. Because artificial intelligence work frequently overlaps with these roles, graduates of AI master’s programs can benefit from sustained demand, expanded career mobility, and opportunities to move into more specialized or leadership-focused positions over time.

FAQs About Easiest Online AI Master’s Programs To Get Into

Students considering more accessible AI master’s programs often want clarity around admissions, difficulty, and long-term value. The FAQs below address common questions to help you set realistic expectations before applying.

Are Easier AI Master’s Programs Less Rigorous Academically?

Easier entry does not mean easier coursework. These programs still operate at the graduate level and require strong analytical thinking, problem-solving, and consistent engagement with technical material. The primary difference is how readiness is evaluated during admissions, not what is expected once classes begin.

Do I Need a Computer Science Degree to Get Into an AI Master’s Program?

Many accessible AI master’s programs do not require a formal computer science degree for admission. Instead, they may accept students with backgrounds in IT, engineering, data analytics, business, or related fields, sometimes supplemented by prerequisite coursework. Reviewing program requirements carefully can help you identify whether you need refresher courses before enrolling.

Are Online AI Master’s Degrees Respected by Employers?

Employers generally focus on skills, experience, and accreditation rather than delivery format. An online AI master’s degree from an accredited university can carry the same credibility as an on-campus program when it emphasizes applied learning and real-world projects. Programs designed for working professionals often align especially well with employer expectations.

Can These Programs Help With Career Advancement or Career Changes?

Accessible AI master’s programs are frequently used by professionals seeking advancement or a shift into AI-focused roles. Applied curricula can help students connect new technical skills to existing experience, which is valuable for promotions or lateral moves into AI-adjacent positions. Career outcomes often improve as graduates gain experience applying AI tools in real-world settings.

How Should I Choose Between Accessible AI Master’s Programs?

Choosing the right program involves balancing admissions flexibility, curriculum focus, and career goals. Some programs emphasize technical depth, while others focus more on applied or business-facing AI use cases. Comparing course requirements, delivery format, and support services can help you identify the best fit.

Explore Online AI Master’s Degrees

If you’re ready to build advanced artificial intelligence skills without navigating highly selective admissions, an accessible online master’s program can be a practical next step. To compare programs, timelines, and learning formats, continue exploring online AI master’s degrees through Learn.org and identify options that fit your background and goals.