Artificial Intelligence Degrees at San Diego State University 2026

Artificial intelligence is reshaping industries from health care to finance to cybersecurity, and graduate-level training can help you move into advanced technical and leadership roles in this fast-growing field. If you’re exploring artificial intelligence degrees at San Diego State University, it’s important to understand what’s available—and at what level.

There aren’t any SDSU artificial intelligence bachelor's degrees; San Diego State University focuses its AI education at the master’s level, offering specialized graduate programs designed for students who already have a foundation in computer science or related fields. Below, we’ll break down your options, admissions requirements, and the types of careers these degrees can support.

Does San Diego State University Offer Artificial Intelligence Degrees?

San Diego State University offers artificial intelligence degrees at the master’s level. There are no standalone undergraduate AI degrees currently available, but students can build a strong foundation through related bachelor’s programs in computer science and other technology fields before pursuing AI-focused graduate study.

At the graduate level, SDSU provides specialized training in artificial intelligence through two distinct master’s pathways: a Master of Science in Artificial Intelligence and Technology and a Master of Science in Computer Science with a specialization in intelligent systems. Both programs are designed to prepare students for advanced roles in AI development, research, and applied computing.

Master’s Degrees in Artificial Intelligence at San Diego State University

San Diego State University offers two graduate pathways for students who want advanced training in artificial intelligence and intelligent systems. These programs are designed for students with a background in computer science or a related field and combine theoretical foundations with applied coursework in machine learning, algorithms, and data-driven technologies. Depending on your goals, you can choose between these two programs:

• Master of Science in Artificial Intelligence and Technology
• Master of Science in Computer Science with a specialization in Intelligent Systems

Other Technology Degrees at San Diego State University

While San Diego State University offers artificial intelligence degrees at the master’s level, students can begin building relevant skills through several related technology programs. These bachelor’s, master’s, and certificate options provide training in computer science, engineering, computational modeling, and applied technology—areas that closely intersect with artificial intelligence. If you’re still exploring your direction or want to strengthen your technical background before pursuing AI-focused graduate study, these programs can help you build the programming, mathematics, and systems knowledge that advanced AI work requires.

Technology bachelor’s degrees:

• Bachelor of Science in Computer Engineering
• Bachelor of Science in Computer Science

Technology master’s degrees:

• Master of Science in Computational Science
• Online Master of Science in Computer Engineering

Technology certificates:

• Geographic Information Science Certificate
• Online Graduate Certificate in Web and Mobile Applications Development
• Professional Computational Science Advanced Certificate

Admissions Requirements for Artificial Intelligence Programs at San Diego State University

Admission requirements at San Diego State University vary depending on whether you are applying as an undergraduate or graduate student. Because artificial intelligence degrees are offered at the master’s level, graduate applicants must meet more specialized academic standards, particularly in computer science and mathematics. Below is a general overview of what you can expect when applying.

Undergraduate Admission Requirements

Students interested in eventually pursuing artificial intelligence at SDSU typically begin with a related bachelor’s degree, such as computer science or computer engineering. Undergraduate admission is based on academic preparation and university-wide criteria.

Common requirements include:

• Completed application through the California State University system
• High school diploma or equivalent
• Required college preparatory coursework
• Competitive grade point average (GPA)
• Official transcripts
• SAT or ACT scores, if required by current university policy

Meeting minimum eligibility does not always guarantee admission, as programs like computer science can be competitive.

Graduate Admission Requirements

Admission to master’s-level artificial intelligence programs at San Diego State University is more selective and typically requires a strong academic background in computer science or a closely related field.

Graduate applicants generally must submit:

• Completed graduate application
• Bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution
• Minimum GPA requirement (often 3.0 or higher)
• Official transcripts from all previously attended institutions
• Statement of purpose outlining academic and career goals
• Letters of recommendation
• Resume or curriculum vitae
• GRE scores, if required by the specific program
• Evidence of prerequisite coursework in programming, data structures, algorithms, and mathematics

Because AI is a technically demanding field, applicants without a formal computer science background may need to complete prerequisite coursework before full admission.

Careers You Can Pursue With a San Diego State University Artificial Intelligence Degree

A master’s-level artificial intelligence degree from San Diego State University can prepare you for advanced technical roles in software development, data science, machine learning, and intelligent systems design. Because SDSU’s programs focus on applied computing and intelligent systems, graduates are typically positioned for roles that require strong programming, mathematical modeling, and analytical skills.

Depending on your experience and specialization, potential career paths may include:

• Machine learning engineer
• Artificial intelligence engineer
• Data scientist
• Computer vision engineer
• Robotics engineer
• Software engineer specializing in AI systems
• Natural language processing engineer
• Research scientist in artificial intelligence
• AI systems architect
• Advanced analytics or algorithm developer

Many of these roles appear in industries such as technology, health care, finance, defense, manufacturing, and research. Leadership and higher-level technical positions often require a graduate degree, making SDSU’s master’s programs a strong option for students looking to move beyond entry-level computing roles.

Accreditation and Program Quality at San Diego State University

San Diego State University is regionally accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC), which is the primary accrediting body for degree-granting institutions in California. Regional accreditation is important because it ensures that the university meets established academic standards and that your degree will be widely recognized by employers and other institutions.

SDSU is also part of the California State University system, one of the largest and most established public university systems in the country. Its computer science and engineering programs are known for combining theoretical foundations with applied learning opportunities, including research, internships, and industry partnerships in the San Diego technology corridor. For students pursuing artificial intelligence at the graduate level, this combination of accreditation, public university oversight, and access to a strong regional tech economy can add practical value to the degree.

FAQs About San Diego State University Artificial Intelligence Degrees

If you're considering artificial intelligence degrees at San Diego State University, you likely have questions about eligibility, cost, and career outcomes. Below are answers to some of the most common questions prospective students ask.

Does San Diego State University offer a bachelor’s degree in artificial intelligence?

San Diego State University currently offers artificial intelligence programs only at the master’s level. Students interested in AI typically begin with a related undergraduate degree such as computer science or computer engineering before applying to one of SDSU’s graduate AI-focused programs. Building a strong foundation in programming, mathematics, and algorithms during your bachelor’s studies is essential for admission into advanced AI coursework.

How much does a master’s degree in artificial intelligence at SDSU cost?

Tuition for graduate programs at San Diego State University varies depending on residency status and enrollment level. As a public university within the California State University system, in-state students generally pay lower tuition than out-of-state students. In addition to tuition, students should consider fees, books, and living expenses. Financial aid options may include federal student aid, scholarships, assistantships, and employer tuition support, depending on eligibility.

Do I need a computer science background to apply to SDSU’s AI programs?

Most applicants to SDSU’s artificial intelligence master’s programs are expected to have a bachelor’s degree in computer science or a closely related technical field. Strong preparation in programming, data structures, algorithms, linear algebra, and probability is typically required. If your undergraduate degree is in another discipline, you may need to complete prerequisite coursework before being considered for full admission.

What is the difference between the MS in Artificial Intelligence and Technology and the MS in Computer Science with a specialization in Intelligent Systems?

The Master of Science in Artificial Intelligence and Technology focuses specifically on AI tools, machine learning, and intelligent systems as its core emphasis. The Master of Science in Computer Science with a specialization in intelligent systems offers a broader computer science curriculum while allowing you to concentrate in AI-related topics. Your choice may depend on whether you want a narrowly focused AI credential or a wider computer science degree with AI expertise built in.

Can an AI degree from SDSU lead to research or doctoral study?

A master’s degree in artificial intelligence or computer science from SDSU can prepare you for doctoral study, particularly if you pursue research-focused coursework or a thesis option. Graduate-level training in algorithms, machine learning, and intelligent systems builds the academic foundation typically required for PhD programs in computer science or artificial intelligence. Students interested in research careers should explore faculty research opportunities during their program.

Discover Online Artificial Intelligence Degree Programs

Find your perfect artificial intelligence degree by exploring the accredited programs featured on Learn.org. Reach out to individual schools to learn more about admissions, enrollment, and financial aid.