Top 7 Part-Time Master's in Artificial Intelligence 2025

Artificial intelligence (AI) is a rapidly growing field that offers a diverse array of career paths. AI professionals develop artificial intelligence systems, analyze data, build machine learning (ML) models, and create robotic solutions to complex problems.

In this article, we explore online master's degree programs that provide flexible pathways to earning your advanced degree in AI. Continue reading to learn how to earn your part-time master's in artificial intelligence and launch your career in this exciting field.

Can You Earn a Master's in Artificial Intelligence Degree Part-Time?

Yes, you can earn a master's degree in artificial intelligence on a part-time basis. Many colleges and universities offer graduate programs designed to accommodate working professionals.

If you're interested in the subset of AI known as machine learning, you can also pursue your advanced degree in ML on a part-time basis. Some schools offer part-time master's in machine learning degree programs. These ML programs are often degree specializations in broader fields of study, such as computer science or engineering.

How Long Does It Take to Finish a Part-Time Artificial Intelligence Master's Degree?

Typically, a Master of Science (MS) in artificial intelligence is about 30 credit hours, though this varies depending on the program and specialization. Full-time students can earn their degree in about one year.

Part-time students will take longer to earn their degree. Most graduate students pursuing their AI master's part-time can complete their program in two to three years. Ultimately, the time it will take you to earn your master's in artificial intelligence part-time will depend on your course load per semester and how many eligible transfer credits you have.

How Does a Part-Time AI Master's Degree Program Work?

Part-time master's in machine learning and artificial intelligence programs have flexible structures. Online programs often offer the most flexibility. Some online programs feature asynchronous classes, which students can take whenever works best for their schedule.

Online and on-campus programs may offer classes in the evenings and weekends to accommodate working professionals. Hybrid programs allow students to take some courses online and engage in other courses in person.

Best Part-Time Master's in Artificial Intelligence Degree Programs

The following list represents some of the top online programs where students can earn an artificial intelligence part-time master's degree.

1. Georgia Institute of Technology

The Georgia Institute of Technology (Georgia Tech) is a school based in Atlanta, GA, with a renowned computer science program. Students interested in pursuing a machine learning part-time master's degree can earn their online Master of Science in Computer Science (OMSCS) with a specialization in machine learning at Georgia Tech.

The 30-credit OMSCS program is conducted entirely online. Core courses include machine learning, graph algorithms, and computational complexity theory.

• Estimated tuition cost: $225 per credit hour
• Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)

2. University of Texas at Austin

The University of Texas at Austin (UT Austin) is a large public school that offers its MS in AI entirely online. The degree program features asynchronous courses, on-demand lectures, and weekly release schedules that students can access according to their schedule needs.

Graduate students take courses such as machine learning, ethics in artificial intelligence, and online learning and optimization.

• Estimated tuition cost: $10,000 program total
• Accreditation: SACSCOC

3. Kennesaw State University

Located in Kennesaw, GA, Kennesaw State University (KSU) is a large public school with a 30-credit MS in artificial intelligence program. Students at KSU can earn their Master of Science in Artificial Intelligence (MSAI) completely online on a full-time or part-time basis. Part-time students generally complete the program in two years.

The curriculum includes courses such as artificial intelligence and machine vision, as well as neural networks and deep learning. KSU's degree program also requires a capstone project.

• Estimated tuition cost: $733 per credit hour
• Accreditation: SACSCOC

4. Penn State World Campus

Penn State World Campus offers a flexible, online master's degree in artificial intelligence. The master's degree program features asynchronous classes, self-paced assignments, the freedom to take a semester off, and multiple start dates each year.

Students develop advanced skills and knowledge in identifying and acquiring data sets, designing AI systems, and deploying AI and ML models in a range of applications.

• Estimated tuition cost: $1,078 per credit hour
• Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)

5. University of Michigan-Dearborn

The University of Michigan-Dearborn (UM-Dearborn) is a mid-sized public school with an MS in artificial intelligence program. UM-Dearborn offers this degree program online, in-person, or in a hybrid format. Students can choose from one of four degree specializations:

• computer vision
• machine learning
• intelligent interaction
• knowledge management and reasoning

The master's program is 30 credit hours. All courses are scheduled during late afternoons and evenings to accommodate working adults.

• Estimated tuition cost: $1,160 per credit hour (in-state); $1,450 per credit hour (out-of-state)
• Accreditation: HLC

6. University of St. Thomas

Located in Saint Paul, MN, the University of St. Thomas offers an online MS in artificial intelligence. Graduate students can enroll on a full-time or part-time basis. The program features evening classes and has three start dates throughout the year.

The program curriculum consists of ten courses. Core courses cover foundations of Python, data preparation and analysis, and AI ethics.

• Estimated tuition cost: $1,350 per credit hour
• Accreditation: HLC

7. University of Washington

The University of Washington (UW) is a large public school with an online MS in artificial intelligence and machine learning for engineering. UW's program is designed for working engineers and can be completed entirely online on a part-time basis.

This is a stacked degree pathway, where students earn two graduate certificates and complete a capstone project to earn their MS degree. Courses include data-driven optimization, applied linear algebra, and physics-informed machine learning.

• Estimated tuition cost: $27,621 per year (in-state); $42,882 per year (out-of-state)
• Accreditation: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU)

How We Rank Schools

We use the following criteria when deciding which schools to feature, from scheduling flexibility to accreditation status.

• Accreditation: All colleges and universities are regionally accredited institutions.
• Program flexibility: Programs are designed for working adults, including aspects like asynchronous courses, weekend/evening classes, and part-time enrollment options.
• Program reputation: A program's reputation is determined by its accreditation status, curriculum, experienced faculty, and any special awards or industry recognition.

FAQs About Part-Time Master's in AI Degrees

We answer frequently asked questions about master's degrees in AI, from degree costs to job opportunities.

How Much Does a Part-Time Master's in Artificial Intelligence Cost?

The cost for a part-time master's degree in AI ranges from just under $10,000 to more than $66,000. Factors that affect cost include school type, program length, transfer credits, residency status, and financial aid. For example, public schools tend to be less expensive than private schools, and in-state students often benefit from lower tuition rates.

What Careers Can I Pursue With a Part-Time Master's in Artificial Intelligence Degree?

AI professionals develop algorithms, analyze complex data, and apply AI and ML to address real-world challenges. Potential job roles include:

• data analyst
• big data architect
• research scientist
• robotics engineer
• machine learning engineer

Is Getting a Master's in AI Worth It?

Artificial intelligence and machine learning can be applied across a broad array of industries, and an advanced degree opens the door to leadership positions, higher salaries, and greater flexibility in the job market.

However, pursuing an advanced degree is a significant investment in your time and money. You must carefully consider your budget and personal commitments, alongside your professional goals.

Is AI a Difficult Degree?

The field of artificial intelligence is complex, and studying AI is an intensive endeavor. AI and ML involve a great deal of computer science, mathematics, and engineering coursework. Many schools offer online tutoring, 24/7 electronic resources, and instructor mentorships to support student success.

What Is the Average Salary for AI Majors?

Given the varied job opportunities, there is no one average salary that properly represents professionals who hold a master's in AI. Professionals who hold a master's typically earn more than those with a bachelor's degree with an AI major.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), data scientists earned a median salary of $112,590 in 2024. Computer network architects earned a median salary of $130,390.

Find Flexible Master's Degrees Online

If you're ready to advance your career in AI and ML, reach out to Learn.org's partner schools and discover which master's degree program best serves your professional goals.