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Earning an Online Bachelor’s Degree in AI
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is quickly revolutionizing all industries by increasing efficiency and enabling humans to focus on more meaningful work. While some jobs are being replaced by AI, most jobs are changing to leverage and incorporate AI, positioning the AI experts needed to support these changes in high demand. A bachelor’s degree in artificial intelligence will give you the skills to succeed in these new jobs and lead ethical conversations as companies expand their use of AI.
Bachelor’s degrees in AI are new—the first AI degree offered in the United States appeared in 2018. Since then, universities have worked hard to appease industry demand by creating high quality AI degree programs, including flexible online options. In this guide we begin by ranking the 10 Best Online Bachelor’s Degree Programs in AI. We then list our full directory of online AI degrees. Use it to find the program that best fits your academic goals.
Rankings Methodology
There are 90+ bachelor’s degree programs in artificial intelligence, but only ~20 of those are currently offered online by non-profit, regionally accredited universities. Our goal is to feature the best online programs and highlight their unique offerings, making it easy for AI enthusiasts to compare programs.
Our rankings are focused on online bachelor’s degrees in artificial intelligence (AI) and closely related fields like machine learning (ML). For our rankings algorithm, we looked at equally weighted factors such as reputation, program quality, student success, AI research, and affordability. Within those factors, we also examined external awards, median undergraduate earnings, student completion rates, and published research from faculty.
The purpose of this guide is to highlight promising online AI bachelor’s degrees and what makes them notable. The “best” option isn’t the same for every student, and ultimately depends on your interests, career goals, budget, program availability, and more. Use the rankings to learn more about some of the top options, but also consider the programs from our full directory; you may find a better fit for your needs. Good luck!
10 Best Online Bachelor’s in Artificial Intelligence Degree Programs
1 University of Arizona – Tucson, AZ
Overview | Online Bachelor of Applied Science in Applied Computing – Applied Artificial Intelligence
- Strong Pick For: Degree Completion; Military; AI & Cybersecurity
- Credits: 60
- Program Length: ~2 Years
Program Summary
The University of Arizona’s Bachelor of Applied Science with an emphasis in AI is a practical, 100% online degree. It’s a degree completion program that’s designed for folks with an associate degree or related employment experience. You’ll start out with Applied Computing foundational classes such as Introduction to Computing, Fundamentals of Cybersecurity, Statistics, Network Analysis, and Cyber Ethics. The AI emphasis area requires additional mandatory credits in subjects like Data Analysis and Visualization, Artificial Intelligence, and Advanced Analytics, as well as an elective. (Take a look at Violent Python, a 400-level overview of Python that focuses on offensive and defensive cybersecurity operations, and the course in Cyber Deception Detection.)
Why Study AI at U of A?
A dedicated supporter of the U.S. Armed Forces, the University of Arizona is a particularly strong choice for the Air Force. The AU-ABC (Air University – Associate to Baccalaureate Cooperative) program allows U.S. Air Force and Space Force members to transfer their CCAF (Community College of the Air Force) Associate of Applied Science degree and quickly complete their bachelor’s degree. For students in other parts of the military, U of A also offers many resources for active military members, veterans, and their dependents. Interested in the intersection of AI and cybersecurity? Ask about what’s happening in the Cyber Convergence Center, an NSA Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Operations (CAE-CO).
Learn More About AI at U of A
Explore U of A’s Online BAS in Applied Computing – Applied AI
2 Colorado State University – Fort Collins, CO
Overview | Online Bachelor of Science in Computer Science – Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning
- Strong Pick For: Analyst & Developer Roles; Future Graduate Work
- Credits: 120
- Program Length: 4 Years
Program Summary
Colorado State University’s BS in Computer Science with a concentration in AI and ML is a 100% online program that focuses on creating intelligent systems. It’s our top-ranked program for recent high school graduates, but it’s also open to transfer & second bachelor students! In addition to computer science fundamentals (e.g. programming), students in the AI and ML concentration acquire a foundation in college-level math (e.g. linear algebra), statistics, and data science while learning to use a broad range of AI and ML tools, techniques, and algorithms. The program emphasizes using AI and ML in an ethically and socially responsible manner, with a particular awareness for bias and how it can be introduced into learning data sets.
Why Study AI at CSU?
Before applying, explore CSU’s Department of Computer Science and faculty profiles. There’s plenty of scope for undergraduate research exploration! For example, the Department’s Center for eXascale Spatial Data Analytics and Computing (XSD) is using AI, ML and deep learning methods to take on extreme scale spatial data and tackle challenges in sustainable agriculture, urban infrastructures, and animal disease control. We also recommend you ask the program coordinator if online students qualify for CS undergraduate scholarships. For students who plan to continue their education, CSU offers an Accelerated Master’s Program (AMP) which allows undergraduate computer science students to apply up to nine credit hours of 500-level CS coursework to both their BS and master’s degrees.
Learn More About AI at CSU
3 Kansas State University – Manhattan, KS
Overview | Online Bachelor of Science in Engineering Technology – Machine Learning and Autonomous Systems
- Strong Pick For: Autonomous Systems; Machine Learning; Programming
- Credits: 120
- Program Length: 4 Years
Program Summary
K-State was one of the first universities to offer an online bachelor’s degree in Machine Learning and Autonomous Systems. Autonomous systems work, learn, and adapt independently using AI frameworks. So this degree focuses on acquiring the ML skills used to automate systems that learn and improve with minimal programming and human contact. For the major, you’ll be completing mandatory courses in college-level math—including advanced statistical credits—as well as courses like Computer Systems, Introduction to Automata and Cybernetic Systems Theory, Supervised & Unsupervised Learning in Autonomous Systems, and Reinforcement Learning in Autonomous Systems. But you can also choose between a Web Development track and a Computational Core track and tack on electives in areas like Robotics Programming.
Why Study AI at K-State?
The degree is offered by K-State’s Saline Aerospace and Technology Campus, which uses innovative learning, real-world experience, and industry connections to prepare students for careers in aerospace, technology, and artificial intelligence. Faculty are actively engaged in research, particularly in uncrewed aviation and spatial computing, AR & extended reality (XR). Undergraduate students at K-State are required to complete an Autonomous Systems senior capstone project where they can develop and operationalize an autonomous system, so we recommend you ask the program coordinator for a list of recent BS capstone titles and summaries. This will give you a sense of what you can achieve!
Learn More About AI at K-State
Explore K-State’s Online BS in Engineering Technology – ML & Autonomous Systems
4 Indiana University-Indianapolis – Indianapolis, IN
Overview | Online Bachelor of Science in Artificial Intelligence
- Strong Pick For: AI Bot Designers & Developers; Human-Centered AI; UX Engineers
- Credits: 120
- Program Length: 4 Years
Program Summary
IU Indy’s Bachelor of Science in AI and Bachelor of Arts in AI are career-focused, 100% online programs where you’ll explore areas such as machine learning, cognitive computing, and AI ethics. The BS will immerse you in technical & mathematical foundations and the BA will give you more room to customize your coursework with electives. Plus you can choose to finish your degree with a 6-credit thesis, project, or internship. Not sure you want to go all in on AI? Compare these options with the broader Online BS in Computer Science. With IU Indy’s emphasis on industry-applicable coursework options, online programs succeed in helping more than half of students advance in their careers before they’ve even graduated.
Why Study AI at IU Indy?
IU Indy’s online undergraduate programs in AI have been developed by the Luddy School of Informatics, Computing & Engineering, which is also home to the Luddy AI Center (LAIC). LAIC brings together undergraduate and graduate students, faculty, and staff from various departments related to AI. Think computer science, informatics, intelligent systems engineering, information and library science, psychology, neuroscience, and cognitive science! This strong interdisciplinary focus extends to research projects done in conjunction with LAIC, which take place at a wide range of AI-related labs and centers across campus. If you’re interested in robotics, ask if you can contribute to work in the R-House Robotics Lab, which focuses on Human-Robot Interaction (HRI).
Learn More About AI at IU Indy
5 Arkansas State University – Jonesboro, AR
Overview | Online Bachelor of Science in Digital Technology and Design – Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning Concentration
- Strong Pick For: App Designers & Developers; Affordability
- Credits: 120
- Program Length: 4 Years
Program Summary
Arkansas State’s interdisciplinary Bachelor of Science in Technology & Design with a concentration in AI and ML is a 100% online program that focuses on building applications from scratch. With courses like Design Literacy, Human Centered Design, and a Graphic Design Internship, this program will equip you with skills in app design and development. Students in the AI and ML concentration also take additional AI- and ML-focused design classes such as Analysis and Design of AI and the Design and Development of AI using Python programming. The program also focuses on the software industry’s shift to cloud operations and how AI can be leveraged in the cloud efficiently by developing proficiency in cloud deployment processes.
Why Study AI at Arkansas State?
Convenience is a big plus! Arkansas State offers an accelerated online format with multiple start dates throughout the academic year. You can begin classes quickly and plan around your work schedule. It’s also the most affordable option in this year’s rankings, with a price that’s under $35,000. Before you start filling in application forms, ask the program coordinator for a list of BS faculty and samples of the Digital Technology & Design Portfolio and Design Build projects. Although the degree is offered by Arkansas State’s Department of Art + Design, Arkansas State will be pulling on computing expertise from other departments for this degree.
Learn More About AI at Arkansas State
Explore Arkansas State’s Online BS in Digital Technology and Design – AI & ML
6 Colorado State University Global – Denver, CO
Overview | Online Bachelor of Science (Multiple Majors) – Artificial Intelligence (AI) & Robotics
- Strong Pick For: Degree Flexibility; Military & Veterans
- Credits: 120
- Program Length: 4 Years
Program Summary
Colorado State University is back! But this time it’s the CSU Global campus and the Online Bachelor of Science (Multiple Majors) with a specialization in AI & Robotics that are making waves in our rankings. We love this option because you can choose an Online BS in Computer Science or Information Technology or Management Information Systems & Business Analytics as your baseline major. Choose CS and you’ll be schooled in areas like programming, algorithms, and software engineering. Choose IT and you’ll be working in human-computer interaction (HCI), networks, and network enterprise solutions. Once you’ve made your selection, you’ll be able to concentrate on AI credits in Principles of Machine Learning, Robotic Theory, AI, and Computer Vision.
Why Study AI at CSU Global?
It’s worth mentioning that CSU Global is not the same as CSU Fort Collins. So you’ll need to decide which one suits your needs better. For instance, CSU Global may be the right choice for folks who are watching their budget—tuition for online undergraduates is charged at a reasonable rate (military & veteran discounts are available) and there are no extra fees. Online BS students will even be prepared for specific industry certifications in CS or IT (e.g. CompTIA credentials). But CSU Fort Collins may a better pick if you’d like to focus on undergraduate research and set yourself up for graduate studies. It looks like most of the faculty at CSU Global are adjuncts.
Learn More About AI at CSU Global
Explore CSU Global’s Online BS (Multiple Majors) – AI & Robotics
7 Farmingdale State College – East Farmingdale, NY
Overview | Online Bachelor of Science in Artificial Intelligence Management
- Strong Pick For: Degree Completion; AI Management & Business Applications
- Credits: 60
- Program Length: ~2 Years
Program Summary
Don’t be fooled by the word “college”! Farmingdale is part of the SUNY system in New York. That means the upper-division Online BS in Artificial Intelligence Management comes with the backing of a large public university network. Unlike some of the CS programs in our rankings, this 100% online degree with asynchronous coursework is focused on business concerns. In addition to taking technical credits such as Algorithms for AI, Programming for AI, and AI & Machine Learning, you’ll be examining topics such as AI applications in marketing, finance, and supply chains & operations and studying analytics. It’s also a degree completion program—you’ll need an associate degree in business or computer science (or the equivalent) to apply.
Why Study AI at FSC?
The degree was launched in the fall of 2024, so it will take a few years before you can speak to alumni about their experiences! In the interim, pay a visit to the Department of Business Management in the AACSB-accredited School of Business and think about how you can leverage its assets to your advantage. The Department has an intriguing Advisory Board and the Business School is very active in entrepreneurial efforts (e.g. pitchfests & business plan competitions). You may even want to consider the possibility of participating in remote Micro-Internships with potential employers. You could cycle through a series of AI-related projects with companies before graduation.
Learn More About AI at FSC
8 National University – San Diego, CA
Overview | Online Bachelor of Science in Data Science – AI & Machine Learning
- Strong Pick For: Data Science; Military & Veterans
- Credits: 180 Quarter Units
- Program Length: 4 Years or Less
Program Summary
If data is your one true love, then NU’s Online BSDS with a concentration in AI & Machine Learning may be the perfect partner for life. The core of the curriculum mixes college-level math credits (e.g. calculus, discrete mathematics, and linear algebra) with plenty of work in data fundamentals. We’re talking about credits in data acquisition, mining, management & preparation, as well as studies in data modeling and data visualization. The concentration in AI & ML consists of seven courses and is a nice balance of credits in algorithms, object-oriented design, ML methods with Python, and a course in deep learning & neural networks.
Why Study AI at NU?
NU’s online undergraduate degree in data science has a number of things going for it. It’s efficient, with 4-week courses that allow you to get through coursework quickly. It’s practical—all BSDS students are required to complete a final three-month data science capstone project with a small business. And it may be eligible for certain scholarships. We’ve mentioned this in our master’s rankings, but NU has joined a number of prestigious universities and research partners (e.g. MIT and UT Austin) to form The Institute for Learning-enabled Optimization at Scale (TILOS). This will be focusing on the optimization of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning, so talk to the BSDS program coordinator about how you might be able to get involved.
Learn More About AI at NU
9 Dakota State University – Madison, SD
Overview | Online Bachelor of Science in Artificial Intelligence
- Strong Pick For: Programming; AI & Cybersecurity; Future Graduate Work
- Credits: 120
- Program Length: 4 Years
Program Summary
DSU’s BS in Artificial Intelligence is available in an on-campus or online format, but we’re highlighting the distance learning version for these rankings. The curriculum consists of required 48 credits in computer science and 16 credits in college-level math, including statistics, linear algebra, and discrete mathematics. Within the computer science requirement, there are foundational topics in computer programming, analytics, algorithms, and data structures. But there are also 300-level and 400-level courses in AI Tools & Frameworks, Applications of Deep Learning, and Algorithms and Optimization. Plus you’ll be able to add a Minor that is not AI or ML focused.
Why Study AI at DSU?
To see the whole picture on DSU, check out the Beacom College of Computer and Cyber Sciences. The College is well-known for its work in cybersecurity and NSA-sponsored cyber projects—it carries all three CAE designations and hosts the annual DakotaCon Security Conference. So you may wish to ask the program coordinator if you can add cybersecurity as your Minor. Even better, DSU is very supportive of undergraduate research, so we’ve flagged it as a good option for folks who may be considering an MS or PhD in the future. To get started on finding a mentor, request a list of current BSAI professors and then dig into their profiles & interests in the faculty directory.
Learn More About AI at DSU
10 Baker College – Owosso, MI
Overview | Online Bachelor of Science in Computer Science – Artificial Intelligence
- Strong Pick For: Computer Science Fundamentals; Work Experience
- Credits: 120
- Program Length: 4 Years
Program Summary
If you want the security of a computer science degree, Baker’s Online BS in Computer Science with a concentration in AI could be the solution. The bulk of the degree (75 credit hours) is devoted to CS, including courses in all kinds of programming languages, computer architecture & operating systems, networking essentials, and college-level math. You’ll also tackle an Introduction to AI and work in Data Structures & Algorithms. The concentration in AI is 15 credits and features courses in ML, robotics, deep learning, and perceptive AI (e.g. computer vision, NLP, etc.). We give Baker top marks for including a 150-hour work experience requirement and senior project in the plan of study!
Why Study AI at Baker
Baker is an intriguing choice for an online undergraduate degree in AI. Although the College of Information Technology and Engineering (CoITE) doesn’t have the clout of a big research university, it’s putting its back behind making its programs both convenient and useful. For example, you can choose a 100% online, asynchronous form of study or a 100% online, synchronous program with live, real-time virtual sessions. Once you’ve read the course descriptions, ask the program coordinator for recent examples of senior projects and a list of where BS in CS students have fulfilled their work experience requirement. This should help you make a decision on whether it has enough AI to satisfy your needs.
Learn More About AI at Baker
How to Choose an Online Bachelor’s in AI
Our rankings of the Best Online Bachelor’s in AI programs are designed to make your choice painless! Once you’ve skimmed the profiles & decision points, you can use the tuition & admissions links to confirm that you’re ready to apply. Here are a few unusual things to be aware of when you’re making your choice.
No Two AI Programs Are Alike: Online undergraduate degrees in AI can be focused on autonomous systems (Kansas State), application design & development (Arkansas State), business & management (Farmingdale), and data science (National University). There are degrees that will give you a thorough training in computer science (e.g. CSU and Baker). But there also those that are laser-focused on AI (e.g. IU Indy and Dakota State University). Don’t rush your decision—there’s a program out there for everyone.
4-Year Programs Are Open to Transfer Students: Our rankings contain two degrees that are classified as “Degree Completion” programs—University of Arizona’s Online BAS in Applied Computing and Farmingdale State College’s Online BS in AI Management. These are only open to students who are transferring credits from an associate degree or the equivalent. But we want to note that almost all 4-year online degrees are willing to accept transfer students.
Course Descriptions Matter: AI is an ever-evolving field and universities & professors are often playing catch up to the tech industry. So it’s important to understand what’s going to be covered in your degree (and what won’t be). Always read the course descriptions and chat to recent BS or BA alumni about whether the classes have been helpful in the workplace. We particularly favor CS and AI programs that will ground you in fundamentals like advanced mathematics, programming, and algorithms. You need to know how the machine works!
Real-World Experience is Critical: Employers will be happy to see a well-respected BS on your résumé, but they’ll be even more impressed when you begin rattling off examples of AI internships and industry-affiliated research projects. Start thinking about how you’re going to create a portfolio of work from Day One. That’s why we’re pleased to see a mandatory work experience component at Baker and internship options at Arkansas State, Farmingdale State College, and IU Indy. Don’t be afraid to schedule a meeting with the program coordinator to create a plan.
Graduate Study Is Always An Option: You may not want (or ever need) a master’s degree or PhD in AI, but it’s good to leave yourself open to the possibility. Some schools make this decision even easier by offering special pathways into graduate programs. The best example of this is CSU’s Accelerated Master’s Program (AMP), which allows undergraduates to take graduate-level coursework and get a head-start on their master’s degree.
Online Bachelor’s in AI FAQ
Online BS in Computer Science vs. Online BS in AI – Which is Better?
It depends on your individual circumstances. If you’re a recent high school graduate and you can only do distance learning, we’d probably recommend an Online BS in Computer Science from a school like CSU or Baker. You’ll still be allowed to choose an AI specialization or concentration, but you’ll have the option to explore other areas of interest and you’ll have a solid footing when you graduate.
Having said that, if you already have an associate degree in computer science or IT, or you’re passionate about a unique area of AI like autonomous systems or robotics, you may decide that an Online BS in AI is going to be the most relevant to your career goals. Just keep in mind that employers will almost always have a bias toward candidates with a BS in Computer Science from top-tier universities (e.g. Stanford).
Online BA in AI vs. Online BS in AI – Which is Better?
Try comparing the BA and the BS programs from IU Indy to understand the differences. As the university points out, the BS has more technical & mathematical work and the BA allows for more customization. We recommend you opt for a Bachelor of Science unless you have a strong reason to go for a Bachelor of Arts. Employers are used to seeing “BS” on résumés—they’re going to have questions about a BA in AI.
Online vs. On-Campus – Which is Better?
Although we love universities that are willing to offer online undergraduate programs in AI and ML, we’d still say that an on-campus or hybrid degree would be better in the long run. That’s because you will be able to get to know your professors, join student groups in the Department of Computer Science, participate in hackathons and competitions, work in AI research labs & centers, and meet visiting AI & ML experts.
Unable to commit to a commute? Game the system to make sure you get the most out of your online experience. Talk to your professors about working remotely on artificial intelligence research projects. Ask for introductions to folks on the program or department’s Advisory Board. Find out which industry partners are affiliated with the AI labs and centers and discuss whether you can do remote internships with them.
How Can I Make My Online Degree in AI Appealing to Employers?
Many online degrees in our rankings will allow you to customize the curriculum with electives, undergraduate certificates, or a Minor. You might want to study with a professor who is gung-ho about a specific sub-field of AI. Or you could think about aligning yourself with the university’s research initiatives. For example, both the University of Arizona and Dakota State University have a strong track record in AI & cybersecurity. So you might wish to add a lot of cyber electives to your degree plan.
Another way to make an online bachelor’s in AI shine? Being creative with your final capstone. Find out what high-achieving students at Technical Ivies have done in recent years. Reach out to potential employers to ask them about what kinds of projects they favor. Talk to your professors about how you can make your industry-focused topic truly challenging. This is where you get to show off.
All Schools Offering Online AI Degrees
Arizona
Chandler/Gilbert Community College
Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics
Chandler, Arizona
University of Advancing Technology
Software Engineering
Tempe, Arizona
University of Arizona
College of Applied Science and Technology
Tucson, Arizona
Arkansas
Arkansas State University
College of Liberal Arts and Communication
Jonesboro, Arkansas
California
Golden Gate University-San Francisco
School of Undergraduate Studies
San Francisco, California
National University
School of Technology & Engineering
La Jolla, California
Colorado
Colorado State University Global
CSU Global
Aurora, Colorado
Colorado State University-Fort Collins
Department of Computer Science
Fort Collins, Colorado
Florida
Full Sail University
Technology
Winter Park, Florida
Hawaii
Atlantic International University
School of Science and Engineering
Honolulu, Hawaii
Bachelor in Artificial Intelligence
Offered Online
Indiana
Indiana University Bloomington
IU Online
Bloomington, Indiana
Indiana University-Purdue University-Indianapolis
Luddy School of Informatics, Computing, and Engineering
Indianapolis, Indiana
Kansas
Kansas State University
College of Technology and Aviation
Manhattan, Kansas
Michigan
Baker College
College of Information Technology and Engineering
Allen Park, Michigan
Davenport University
College of Technology
Grand Rapids, Michigan
Minnesota
Capella University
Information Technology
Minneapolis, Minnesota
South Dakota
Dakota State University
Beacom College of Computer and Cyber Sciences
Madison, South Dakota
Tennessee
South College
Computer Science & Engineering
Knoxville, Tennessee
Virginia
Strayer University
Information Technology
Arlington, Virginia
Washington
Bellevue College
School of Business & Technology
Bellevue, Washington
