Top 9 Master's in Artificial Intelligence Degrees in 2025

Artificial intelligence (AI) education has become a popular subject in recent years because artificial intelligence programs are revolutionizing the internet. You can join this rapidly developing field by attending an AI bootcamp or even earning a college degree in the subject.

At some schools, you can earn a master's in AI or data science to establish yourself as an expert in the field. This article will cover the basics of AI graduate programs and show you which colleges offer reputable AI degree programs.

What Is a Master's in Artificial Intelligence Degree?

This graduate degree program focuses on an advanced understanding of AI systems for research and applications purposes. Such programs require about a two-year enrollment and involve an in-depth study of the creation and deployment of AI systems in robotics, machine learning, natural language processing, deep learning, and computer vision. This covers a range of sub-disciplines in areas like AI, machine learning, data science, and other concentrations mentioned in the next section.

Types of Master's in AI Degree Programs

There are multiple types of AI master's degrees you can earn to gain real-world skills using this important new technology. These hands-on learning programs combine classroom learning and research with various practical applications of programming languages, intelligent systems, and more.

• Master of Science in artificial intelligence (MSAI): An MS in artificial intelligence degree trains AI professionals in the latest design and implementation techniques for AI systems.
• Master of Engineering (MEng) in artificial intelligence: This engineering program encourages students to understand AI systems through the lens of data science and complex algorithms.
• Master of Science (MS) in machine learning: An advanced machine learning program involves a heavily quantitative study of machines capable of deep learning and AI decision making.
• Master of Science in computer science with a concentration in artificial intelligence: This computer science degree offers a blend of traditional computational-design training with an emphasis in AI systems, AI applications, neural networks, and more.
• Master of Science in robotics: A master's degree in robotics trains graduate students in every advanced detail regarding algorithms, control systems, and other mechanisms for automated technology.
• Master of Science in data science/data analytics: These programs train advanced data analysts to become proficient in graphing technology for an array of sophisticated AI purposes.
• Master of Science in artificial intelligence in healthcare: The healthcare industry continues to incorporate more AI systems into its technical framework, making this an ideal academic background for anyone wishing to integrate their technical skills into shaping modern medical equipment.
• Master of Science in artificial intelligence in cybersecurity: This degree program covers the important intersection between web security and emerging AI technologies, including how to use AI to minimize online threats and disturbances.

Top Artificial Intelligence Master's Degrees

Below are 10 reputable colleges that offer a master's in AI online, on-campus, or a hybrid of both. Many offer at least some online courses along with opportunities to explore cutting-edge developments in AI coding, deep learning, AI web optimization, and more.

1. Maryville University

Maryville University offers an MS in AI and machine learning with a curriculum of 11 courses. This includes eight core courses and three electives for plenty of experiential learning. Undergraduates at Maryville can get a head start on this degree by completing up to four graduate-level classes in their senior year through an accelerated version of this program.

• Estimated tuition cost: $20,100 (total program cost)
• Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)

2. Wake Forest University

Wake Forest University has a master's program for AI strategy and innovation, which you can complete 100% online. The school emphasizes ''human-first AI innovation'' while training students in everything necessary to execute AI strategies, apply ethical practices, and optimize applications.

This program leads graduates to careers in fields like data analytics, education, health, and business management.

• Estimated tuition cost: $38,940 (total program cost)
• Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)

3. Georgia Institute of Technology

Georgia Institute of Technology (Georgia Tech) has seven AI, machine learning, and data science graduate programs. This includes a fully online master's degree concentrating in computational perception and robotics. The coursework features novel topics like robot-human interaction, autonomous multi-robot systems, and planning robotic intelligence.

• Estimated tuition cost: $601 per credit hour
• Accreditation: SACSCOC

4. University of Washington

The University of Washington has seven AI and information technology master's degree options. Its College of Engineering has a master's in AI and machine learning for engineering, focusing on AI applications in areas like manufacturing, chemical processing, and robotics.

The admissions requirements include having at least a 3.0 GPA, and international students must reside in the U.S. to enroll in this hands-on program.

• Estimated tuition cost: $1,148 per credit hour
• Accreditation: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU)

5. Texas A&M University

Texas A&M University has an online computer science master's program, featuring specializations in AI, machine learning, cybersecurity, software systems, and more. This degree takes up to 2.5 years to complete, and the department strongly encourages students to have a solid background in science and mathematics before enrollment.

The admissions process does not require students to submit scores from standardized tests, such as the GRE.

• Estimated tuition cost: $77 per semester credit hour
• Accreditation: SACSCOC

6. East Carolina University

East Carolina University offers an MS in data science degree with an emphasis on interdisciplinary analytics. Most of the coursework requires students to sharpen their skills in quantitative analysis, mathematical modeling, trend spotting, and visual analytics. This program is available either on-campus or through online delivery at an affordable tuition rate.

• Estimated tuition cost: $289.55 per credit hour
• Accreditation: SACSCOC

7. Florida International University

Florida International University has a master's degree program for data science and AI. In its section on admissions requirements, the school notes that this degree would be most appropriate for students who earned a bachelor's degree in data analytics, business analytics, biostatistics, or public policy analytics.

Students will eventually complete a capstone project using programs like Python, SQL, or R to demonstrate expertise in data analytics for industrial purposes.

• Estimated tuition cost: $455.64 per credit hour
• Accreditation: SACSCOC

8. New Mexico State Global Campus

New Mexico State Global Campus has a fully online master's program for data analytics. It prepares graduates for real-world data analyst roles by exposing them to advanced technical knowledge and practical skills for working in data-driven industries.

This leads to rewarding careers as an analytics officer, healthcare analyst, scientific researcher, and more.

• Estimated tuition cost: $444.40 per credit hour
• Accreditation: HLC

9. Southwest Baptist University

Southwest Baptist University offers an MS in AI, including an accelerated one-year degree completion option. The admissions process has no application fee, the curriculum involves a flexible blend of online and in-person courses, and the school provides convenient ways to transfer credits from other programs.

• Estimated tuition cost: $499 per credit hour
• Accreditation: HLC

How We Rank Schools

Here is how we ranked those 10 universities for AI and machine learning master's degrees. Each program must possess academic accreditation, offer affordable tuition or financial aid, and have a strong program reputation.

• Accreditation: These institutions receive extensive review by accreditation boards like HLC.
• Affordability: We try to include affordable master's programs, including the ones that will let you offset degree costs with internships, full-time assistantships, and other financial aid, including scholarships.
• Program reputation: These programs have a solid reputation with academic AI scholars and machine learning engineers alike.

FAQs About the Best Master's AI Degrees

Here are some frequently asked questions (FAQs) about in-person and online master's in AI. These five questions address the differences between AI and machine learning, whether these degrees are worth it, and whether you need a computer science degree to apply.

Is a Master's in Artificial Intelligence Worth It?

This degree can be worth it, especially for experienced AI engineers who wish to take their expertise to the next level after learning the fundamentals on their own. While you can get world-class training from some of the top AI bootcamps, a master's degree allows you to delve deeper into the most advanced aspects of AI software development and other technical elements.

Do I Need a Computer Science Background to Apply?

No, some programs will accept students who possess other engineering degrees or extensive experience using AI professionally. However, most institutions prefer someone with a background in computer science, data science, or data analytics. It also helps to have experience with coding programs, such as Python, and at least some familiarity with quantitative research methods.

How Long Does a Master's in Artificial Intelligence Take?

This degree takes between one and two years to complete, but may take three years or longer if you only attend part-time. Some universities also offer shorter degree programs (including executive master's degrees), which you can finish within one year.

What's the Difference Between AI, Machine Learning, and Data Science Degrees?

AI is the broadest concept, which refers to developing full-scale intelligent systems. Machine learning is all about programming computers to learn from data, whereas data science involves a research approach for gathering important insights from data. Some master's degree programs expose graduate students to all three areas, but it's more common to specialize in one of the three.

What Jobs Can I Get With a Master's in Artificial Intelligence?

There are plenty of high-paying AI and machine learning careers for master's program graduates. This includes robotics engineers, AI researchers, data scientists, AI product managers, machine learning engineers, AI FinTech developers, software engineers, data mining analysts, computer vision engineers, and more.

Discover More AI Programs

You can discover more about AI programs by exploring the rest of our website. This includes helpful resources on bootcamps, bachelor's degrees, master's degrees, and certifications for AI and machine learning.