10 Best Artificial Intelligence (AI) Degree Programs in North Carolina 2025

Pursuing an artificial intelligence degree can qualify you for a variety of exciting and cutting-edge career paths. If you live in North Carolina and are hoping to enter the AI field, you may be wondering if any schools in your state offer AI degree programs.

Keep reading as we explore some of the best colleges for artificial intelligence majors. We'll also answer some questions you may have about getting a degree for artificial intelligence.

Best Artificial Intelligence Degrees in North Carolina

Some of the best schools for artificial intelligence are located in North Carolina. Let's take a closer look at these colleges and universities and the AI degree programs they offer.

1. Duke University

Duke University is a prestigious private school located in Durham. It offers both undergraduate and graduate programs in AI; namely, a Master of Engineering in artificial intelligence for product innovation and a Bachelor of Science in computer science with a concentration in AI and machine learning.

The artificial intelligence master's degree program, which is ranked just below Harvard by U.S. News & World Report can be completed online if desired, and both programs delve into the fundamentals of AI technologies and systems. Students receive a world-class education at a world-class school, improving their chances of finding top career paths upon graduation. Tuition per semester costs around $32,000 to $33,000 for these programs.

2. University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill (UNC) is a top public school in both the state and the U.S. Known for its strong focus on AI research, it features an online Master of Applied Data Science degree that's a great choice for those interested in artificial intelligence careers. The program costs $1,211.78 per credit hour.

This 16-month program covers many of the same topics commonly featured in AI master's degrees. Courses include machine learning, deep learning, and ethics of data science and AI. The program features a capstone project and many opportunities to gain real-world experience. Despite not offering a specific AI program, the university is at the forefront of practical and generative AI research, making it a top school for students pursuing AI degrees and careers.

3. North Carolina State University

North Carolina State University (NC State) is located in Raleigh and is the largest school in the Carolinas by enrollment. Students at the school can pursue a Bachelor of Science in computer science with a concentration in artificial intelligence.

Students in the program complete 21 credit hours of AI-specific coursework covering topics like automated learning, database management systems, and building game AI. Students gain a practical understanding of AI systems and skills that they can apply in a variety of real-world scenarios. Tuition for this program costs approximately $9,000 per year.

4. University of North Carolina at Wilmington

The University of North Carolina at Wilmington (UNCW) is a part of the University of North Carolina System. Undergraduate students at this school can pursue a Bachelor of Science in intelligent systems engineering with a concentration in machine learning and artificial intelligence.

Tuition for this interdisciplinary program is highly affordable, costing about $4,443 per year. Courses focus on both engineering and computing topics with a strong foundation of math and science. Students study advanced topics like deep machine learning, computer vision, and natural language processing on their way to earning their degrees.

5. North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University

North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University, commonly known as North Carolina A&T, is a public, historically black school in Greensboro. It is launching a brand-new Bachelor of Science in artificial intelligence in the fall of 2025.

This program is the first of its kind in the state, as it will be a standalone artificial intelligence program rather than incorporating AI as a specialization within another type of degree. The program plans to provide concentrations in applied artificial intelligence and advanced AI systems so students can tailor the program. Tuition for this exciting new degree will cost about $3,540 per year.

6. Blue Ridge Community College

Blue Ridge Community College is a public school with three campuses in Flat Rock, Brevard, and Hendersonville. Students can earn an Associate in Applied Science (AAS) with an artificial intelligence pathway, and both in-person and fully online study options are available.

Upon graduation, students can pursue entry-level AI careers or continue their education at higher levels. The program provides fundamental courses in artificial intelligence and machine learning, giving students a solid foundation on which to build. Tuition for North Carolina residents costs just $76 per credit hour at this school.

7. Wayne Community College

Wayne Community College is a member of the North Carolina Community College System. It is located in Goldsboro and provides an artificial intelligence engineer AAS degree costing $76 per credit hour.

Students can complete this degree entirely online if desired. They learn a variety of basic AI topics, including hands-on training in how to create and implement AI systems for a variety of applications.

8. Cape Fear Community College

Cape Fear Community College is located in Wilmington. It offers an associate degree in information technology with a concentration in artificial intelligence.

Students in this program receive a well-rounded general education while also taking specialized courses in computer and chatbot programming, artificial intelligence tools, and technology ethics. The program comprises at least 72 credit hours and costs $76 per credit hour.

9. Alamance Community College

Alamance Community College has campuses in Graham and Burlington. It provides an AAS degree with a pathway in artificial intelligence.

The program covers core topics like machine learning, algorithms, and data analytics, helping students develop both practical skills and theoretical understanding of AI principles. As with other community colleges in the state, tuition costs $76 per credit hour for North Carolina residents.

10. Central Piedmont Community College

Central Piedmont Community College is located in Charlotte and is one of the largest campuses in the North Carolina Community College System. Students can pursue an AAS in information technology with a concentration in artificial intelligence.

This program is a great option for students who have no previous education or experience in AI. It covers topics like computer vision, chatbot programming, AI ethics, and more as it helps students develop practical skills for various career opportunities. Tuition costs $76 per credit hour.

How We Rank Schools

We strive to choose the best colleges when creating our school rank lists. The following criteria were considered when selecting the top AI colleges above:

• Accreditation: Each school is accredited by a nationally recognized accrediting body.
• Reputation: All of the schools are respected for providing high-quality academic programs, both for in-person and online students.
• AI degrees: Each college provides at least one artificial intelligence degree; some provide multiple degrees at various program levels.

FAQs About AI Degree Programs in North Carolina

If you still have questions about pursuing a degree for artificial intelligence at a quality AI college, keep reading. Below, we'll answer some common questions you may be wondering about.

Is It Worth Pursuing a Master's Degree for Machine Learning?

Artificial intelligence and machine learning are related fields that are often grouped together into the same degree program. Pursuing a machine learning and artificial intelligence master's degree program can be well worth the time and money you put into it, as this type of degree prepares students for high-level and often high-paying AI jobs in many industries.

How Much Does an Online Artificial Intelligence Degree Program Cost?

The cost of getting an artificial intelligence degree online can vary widely. In general, you can expect to pay at least $28,000 to $58,000 in tuition for your program, though the total cost of the degree may be up to $100,000 or more.

Factors affecting cost include whether you attend a public or private school, whether you are subject to out-of-state tuition, and what degree level you pursue. Though it may be a significant investment, it's worth noting that an AI degree salary is typically one of the best in any industry, with even median incomes reaching six figures.

What Is the Best Major To Learn Artificial Intelligence?

If you want to learn and pursue a career in artificial intelligence, then an in-person or online AI degree is your best bet. However, other related degree programs can also help you get your foot in the door. Some of these majors include:

• data science
• computer science
• software engineering
• information technology
• cybersecurity

Explore AI Colleges

If you're ready to explore the best schools for artificial intelligence, check out the colleges and universities featured on Learn.org. Reach out to any of the schools today to discover more about their available programs and to choose the best one for you.