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The Rise of the Online Master’s in AI
Artificial Intelligence (AI) has already revolutionized many aspects of life, but we’re only at the dawn! As an offshoot of the field of computer science, AI is highly complex and constantly evolving, which is why employers are hungry for qualified experts who have completed graduate-level coursework in AI and related topics. If you find yourself ready for an Online Master’s in Artificial Intelligence, this guide is for you.
Use our detailed rankings to compare online MSAI and online MSCS in AI programs from some of the most prestigious and innovative universities in the country. Browse through the advice sections for tips on choosing a school. Or take advantage of the cost links in our state listings to learn if a public university in your area is offering a good price on an online graduate degree in artificial intelligence.
Rankings Methodology
To create our rankings of the 21 best online master’s programs in artificial intelligence, the team here at MastersinAI.org came up with a weighted algorithm. We wanted to create a list that reflected real-world concerns. So we considered the following aspects:
- Quality: Schools with strong U.S. News & World Report rankings in AI, Computer Science, Theoretical CS, Engineering, and Statistics received an algorithmic boost. We also factored in faculty research activity in the realms of AI, machine learning (ML), and related areas. That’s just one of the reasons why Stanford appears at #2.
- Cost: We compared the total program price to all other online AI programs and gave each school an individual affordability ranking. That’s why low-cost options from Georgia Tech and UT Austin appear above more expensive programs from schools such as NYU and Johns Hopkins University.
- Results: We evaluated student completion data to see if the program delivered on its promises of graduating AI students. Any school with strong completions data merited a boost. Our algorithm also factors in the earnings potential for graduates after 1 year and 2-3 years. This gave schools like UW and UPenn a slight edge over their counterparts.
For the final ranking order, we combined all of these criteria. That means schools that achieved solid placements across all categories ranked higher than schools that did well in just one area (e.g. affordability). In addition, all schools had to offer online master’s degrees that focused primarily on AI.
Use our rankings as a starting point! You may find a school at #10 is much more applicable to your career goals & budget than a school at #1. But rest assured that all of them are dedicated to training AI experts in a format that’s accessible and workplace-friendly.
21 Best Online Master’s in Artificial Intelligence Degree Programs
Discover 21 top-tier schools with Online Master’s in Artificial Intelligence degrees! We scoured the country to find accredited online graduate programs that are devoted to AI. Each offering is unique. Some degrees are very technical. Others are business-focused. Some are suited to career-changers. Others are designed for working engineers. Use our rankings to find a virtual program that fits your needs.
1 Georgia Institute of Technology – Atlanta, GA
Overview | Online Master of Science in Computer Science – Interactive Intelligence
- Strong Pick For: Affordability
- Credits: 30
- Program Length: 1-2 Years
Program Summary
Georgia Tech’s Online Master of Science in Computer Science (OMSCS) is famous for its incredibly low price, but there’s so much more to this degree than the cost! It’s a mirror version of the on-campus degree, with more convenient asynchronous coursework. We’ve highlighted the pathway in Interactive Intelligence, but other AI-related specializations are available, including one in Machine Learning (online courses are highlighted in bold). Just as importantly, it’s gung-ho about encouraging student participation. The program supports project showcases, local meet-ups, virtual coffee hours, and a hybrid OMSCS conference each year. These are rare elements in an online graduate program!
Why Study AI Online at Georgia Tech?
Admissions for the OMSCS will be competitive, so read through the faculty profiles and FAQs before you start the application process. Once you’ve landed on a particular specialization, we also recommend a visit to the School of Interactive Computing’s section on Artificial Intelligence & Machine Learning and the School of Computational Science and Engineering’s summary of AI & ML engineering research. We spotted all kinds of fascinating AI labs within the Machine Learning Center (ML@GT). If you’re thinking of more interdisciplinary collaborations in areas like health, education, or manufacturing, Tech AI, the AI Hub at Georgia Tech will give you an overview of AI efforts across all schools and departments.
Learn More About AI at Georgia Tech
2 Stanford University – Stanford, CA
Overview | Online Master of Science in Computer Science – Artificial Intelligence
- Strong Pick For: Customizing Coursework
- Credits: 45 Units
- Program Length: 1-2 Years (Full-Time); 3-5 Years (Part-Time)
Program Summary
Working professionals can earn an Online Master of Science in Computer Science (MSCS) – Artificial Intelligence from a top-tier school thanks to Stanford’s Honors Cooperative Program (HCP). As long as you reside in the United States and can commit to at least three units per quarter, you’ll be able to earn the entire 45-unit master’s degree online. (International students should look elsewhere in our rankings.) The Stanford Bulletin has a full list of course options—see the Artificial Intelligence Subplan for details. Once you’ve completed an AI fundamentals course, you can select technical credits in almost any realm of interest (e.g. robotics, deep learning, machine learning, etc.).
Note: If you’re hesitating about the value of a master’s, consider applying for the Online Artificial Intelligence Graduate Certificate. Credits can be transferred to the MSCS.
Why Study AI Online at Stanford?
When you’ve got the Stanford Artificial Intelligence Lab (SAIL) and its industry affiliates on your side, you’re going to be in very good company! Use the Stanford Report’s section on Artificial Intelligence and the annual AI Index Report from the Stanford Institute for Human-Centered AI (HAI) to read about the university’s latest research developments in the field. Above all, think about how a part-time online CS degree from Stanford will be critical for your career. Admissions will be extremely competitive, so ask your referees to tailor their letters of recommendation and be specific in your statement of purpose. The MSCS is available with a distinction in research, but we suggest the on-campus version of this degree for any research lovers out there.
Learn More About AI at Stanford
3 University of Texas at Austin – Austin, TX
Overview | Online Master of Science in Artificial Intelligence
- Strong Pick For: Affordability
- Credits: 30
- Program Length: 18-36 Months
Program Summary
Affordable, focused & highly ranked—these are just three of the reasons why you should put UT Austin’s 100% Online Master of Science in Artificial Intelligence (MSAI) on your shortlist. The university & edX have come up with a curriculum that explores every major element of AI. Think of subjects like machine learning (ML), deep learning, natural language processing (NLP), and more. We love the fact that coursework includes practical case studies in ML and electives in areas such as AI in Healthcare and Optimization. There’s no capstone or thesis in this MSAI. So take a moment to speak to the program coordinator about how you can create your own portfolio to show to employers.
Why Study AI Online at UT Austin?
UT Austin’s Online MSAI is the brainchild of its Department of Computer Science & Engineering (CSE) and Department of Statistics & Data Science (SDS). The CSE supports scores of relevant labs in AI and Machine Learning, including intriguing research on AI and Human Intelligence (HI). Meanwhile, over at the SDS, you’ll find a dedicated Machine Learning Laboratory with strong ties to the Institute for Foundations of Machine Learning (IFML). Have a look at the CSE faculty directory to explore the work & qualifications of your potential instructors. Many are doing fascinating things in the realms of intelligent robotics, deep reinforcement learning, and more.
Learn More About AI at UT Austin
4 University of Washington-Seattle – Seattle, WA
Overview | Online Master of Science in Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning for Engineering
- Strong Pick For: Engineers in Manufacturing, Chemical Processes or Robotics
- Credits: 33 + Capstone
- Program Length: 2-4 Years
Program Summary
UW’s Online Master of Science in AI and ML for Engineering is one of the Paul G. Allen School of Computer Science & Engineering’s Professional Master’s Programs (PMPs). That means it can be completed on a 100% online, part-time or full-time basis. It’s built on an unusual “stackable” model. You’ll begin by earning a Graduate Certificate in Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) for Engineering and then choose another certificate in an engineering area such as Data Analytics for Systems Operations or AI/ML-driven Molecular & Process Engineering. All students end up working on a two-quarter applied capstone project. Unlike the online MSAI and MSCS programs in our rankings, this MS is truly designed for working engineers!
Why Study AI Online at UW?
Because it’s a name of respect in employment circles, especially on the West Coast. At UW Engineering, you’ll discover a number of AI institutes & centers in neurotechnology, dynamic systems, and robotics (e.g. UW+Amazon Science Hub) as well as a dedicated eScience Institute with expertise in Scientific Software Engineering. And within the Allen School, you’ll find work in a range of AI sub-topics. Just as important for career-builders, UW has close connections with the Allen Institute for AI and Big Tech companies. In 2024, it announced an artificial intelligence partnership with Amazon, NVIDIA, and the University of Tsukuba. As we mentioned, this is an engineering degree. If you’re interested in comp sci applications, UW’s campus-based MSCS with evening classes may be more in your line.
Learn More About AI at UW
5 University of Pennsylvania – Philadelphia, PA
Overview | Online Master of Science in Engineering in Artificial Intelligence
- Strong Pick For: Systems Lovers
- Credits: 10 Course Units
- Program Length: 16-40 Months
Program Summary
UPenn’s Online Master of Science in Engineering in Artificial Intelligence (MSE-AI) appears in our top 5 for one key reason: return on investment. After 2-3 years in the job market, graduates are earning in excess of $160,000 per year. This is a degree for folks with a background in computer science or computer engineering. The curriculum features seven core courses in fundamental AI topics—including Machine Learning (ML) for Data Science, Principles of Deep Learning, and Natural Language Processing (NLP)—and three electives. There’s even an AI practicum with an on-campus intensive. It may be perfect if you’re seeking a self-directed degree. Completion time is flexible and all coursework is asynchronous. See the FAQs for more details.
Note: You can test the waters by taking UPenn’s Coursera offering in AI and Machine Learning Essentials with Python Specialization.
Why Study AI Online at UPenn?
In conversation threads, folks point out that UPenn’s program has more of a systems/hardware feel than some other online master’s degrees in our AI rankings. It also comes from an Ivy League school, which may sway the balance for overseas employers! Course creators are listed next to the course descriptions, so be sure to look up their faculty bios before writing your statement of purpose. And take a good hard look at Penn Engineering’s Computer & Information Science (CIS) research in ML, NLP, HCI, algorithmic fairness, and AI healthcare. You may find that some of your artificial intelligence passions align with the department’s highlighted projects.
Learn More About AI at UPenn
6 Johns Hopkins University – Baltimore, MD
Overview | Online Master of Science in Artificial Intelligence
- Strong Pick For: AI Engineers
- Credits: 10 Courses
- Program Length: Up to 5 Years
Program Summary
Pursue the Online Master of Science in Artificial Intelligence (MSAI) at Johns Hopkins University and you’ll be earning a technical qualification that’s a great blend of theory & practice. In the curriculum, you’ll be expected to complete four rigorous courses in Algorithms, Artificial Intelligence, Applied Machine Learning, and AI-Enabled Systems, as well as six electives in a wide range of advanced topics (e.g. Deep Neural Networks, Advanced Applied ML, Evolutionary & Swarm Intelligence, LLMs, etc.). A few of these subjects will have synchronous, real-time elements. Independent research is available as an elective and hands-on projects are incorporated into the coursework.
Note: Unsure about a degree? Start with JHU’s Online Graduate Certificate in Artificial Intelligence. Credits can be applied toward the Online MSAI.
Why Study AI Online at Johns Hopkins?
JHU isn’t messing around with quality—the MSAI was conceived with the help of the highly ranked Whiting School of Engineering and the university’s world-class Applied Physics Lab (APL). Before applying, take a close look at the high-level interdisciplinary work that’s being done by APL researchers in the areas of Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, and Autonomy. You may notice that the AI program chair is Barton Paulhamus, Principal Staff Researcher and Chief of the Intelligent Systems Center. The only big downside is the cost. Fortunately, tuition support is available through employer contribution programs and the Dean’s Fellowship.
Learn More About AI at JHU
7 New York University – New York City, NY
Overview | Online Master of Science in Emerging Technologies – Machine Learning & Artificial Intelligence
- Strong Pick For: Customizing Coursework
- Credits: 30
- Program Length: 2-3 Years
Program Summary
NYU’s interdisciplinary Online Master of Science in Emerging Technologies with an ML/AI concentration can be customized to fit almost any career goal. For the curriculum, you’ll be allowed to select 12 credits in machine learning and AI topics and 18 credits of electives in a wide range of topics. Think of areas such as wireless & networking, urban informatics, software development, robotics, and more. Even the ML & AI concentration offers a choice of subjects (e.g. Machine Learning and Data Science for Bioinformatics). All online MS students must tackle a capstone in either Advanced Machine Learning or AI for Games.
Why Study AI Online at NYU?
Put NYU on your shortlist if you’re interested in gaming applications or urban AI. Because of its location in New York City, the university has an especial interest in how large-scale cities function. It’s also worth investigating the projects at AI@NYU within the Courant Institute of Mathematical Sciences (CIMS), activity within the Center for Data Science (CIDS), and research work on Data Science / AI / Robotics within the Tandon School of Engineering. Like Stanford and Duke, NYU is one of the most expensive programs in our Best Online rankings, so it pays to take advantage of every possible discount and scholarship. Read the FAQ for more info on financial assistance.
Learn More About AI at NYU
8 Purdue University – West Lafayette, IN
Overview | Online Master of Science in Artificial Intelligence
- Strong Pick For: AI Engineers/Project Management
- Credits: 30
- Program Length: 1.5 Years
Program Summary
Purdue’s affordable Online Master of Science in Artificial Intelligence (MSAI) is available in two distinct majors. There’s a technical AI and Machine Learning pathway for folks in the realms of data science, software development, systems analysis, and AI engineering. But there’s also a leadership-focused AI Management & Policy pathway for aspiring IT directors, intelligence analysts, product managers, and the like. Examine the curriculum carefully to get a handle on the differences. Even in the technical major, you’ll still be required to complete courses in AI Policy, Governance & Ethics as well as the Societal Impacts of AI. Both majors culminate in a final capstone project.
Note: Purdue also offers an Online Foundations of Artificial Intelligence Graduate Certificate.
Why Study AI Online at Purdue?
Anyone eyeing the technical major should pay a visit to Purdue’s Department of Computer Science and its section on research areas. You always have the option to choose electives that align with work that’s being done by the AI, ML & NLP group. You could even ask about working with one of the department’s corporate partners on your capstone. Anyone considering the management major should examine the bios of MSAI faculty—a number of professors come from the Department of Political Science—and visit the department’s section on political science research. In particular, see the Institute for Physical AI and the Governance and Responsible AI Lab (GRAIL). Purdue has a strong interest in responsible tech.
Learn More About AI at Purdue
9 Northeastern University – Boston, MA
Overview | Online Master of Professional Studies in Applied Machine Intelligence
- Strong Pick For: Industry Collaborations
- Credits: 45
- Program Length: 12-18 Months
Program Summary
Northeastern’s Online Master of Professional Studies (MPS) in Applied Machine Intelligence from the College of Professional Studies is a hands-on, practical degree for working professionals. The curriculum contains five mandatory courses in Data Management, AI Fundamentals, AI Applications, System Technologies, and Responsible AI. After that, you’ll be able to choose a concentration in a corporate field (e.g. AI for Business Ventures, AI for Finance, AI for Healthcare or AI for HR) and tackle a capstone. The cherry on top? The MPS is part of Northeastern’s Experiential Network (XN). In some courses, you’ll be actively collaborating with industry partners on real-world projects.
Why Study AI Online at Northeastern?
Strongly consider Northeastern if you’re working in the realm of healthcare. The Boston area is a hub of world-class hospitals and 90+ Northeastern faculty members contribute to the Institute for Experiential AI. This Institute is especially interested in applied AI solutions and artificial intelligence research in health, life sciences, and climate & sustainability. Thinking about the Business Ventures concentration? Aspiring startup founders may wish to connect with early-stage companies within the Innovation Campus (e.g. MatrixSpace) and find out what’s happening in the research labs & groups in artificial intelligence within the Khoury College of Computer Science.
Learn More About AI at Northeastern
Explore Northeastern’s Online MPS in Applied Machine Intelligence
10 Duke University – Durham, NC
Overview | Online Master of Engineering in Artificial Intelligence for Product Innovation (Machine Learning Engineering OR Data Science Track)
- Strong Pick For: Software Developers
- Credits: 30
- Program Length: 24 Months (Part-Time)
Program Summary
Looking for a project-focused qualification? Look no further than Duke’s Online Master of Engineering in AI for Product Innovation (MEng AIPI). This innovative part-time degree includes seminars with major AI leaders, a team-based capstone with a company sponsor, and a summer internship or project. Coursework covers technical subjects (e.g. Deep Learning Applications), operations & management issues, and even electives in ML Engineering or Data Science. It’s not a 100% online program—you will be expected to attend two week-long campus residencies—but you’ll be earning a tech degree from one of the most prestigious universities in the country.
Why Study AI Online at Duke?
We give Duke top marks for creating a degree that focuses on positive graduate outcomes and practical learning. Some MEng AIPI faculty have decades of professional experience in technical leadership roles; others are active in applied research initiatives such as Duke’s Institute for Enterprise Engineering. As the name implies, this is an online degree for folks who are interested in real-world applications (e.g. designing AI-powered software). Over the course of two years, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to build a portfolio of AI & ML projects and use Duke’s career services to connect with potential employers.
Learn More About AI at Duke
11 Northwestern University – Evanston, IL
Overview | Online Master of Science in Data Science – Artificial Intelligence
- Strong Pick For: Data Scientists
- Credits: 12 Courses
- Program Length: 2 Years (Part-Time)
Program Summary
Northwestern’s 100% Online Master of Science in Data Science (MSDS) with a specialization in Artificial Intelligence will get you up-to-speed in core data science & business concepts before you tackle more advanced AI topics. There are only two courses in the AI specialization—Natural Language Processing (NLP) and Artificial Intelligence & Deep Learning—but you can supplement your studies with a range of fascinating electives (e.g. Intelligent Systems and Robotics). You’ll also have the choice of a thesis or capstone project, where you can focus on a specific AI topic. For example, one student team teamed up with an AI startup to predict the performance of frontline customer service agents. It’s an interdisciplinary degree for interdisciplinary thinkers.
Why Study AI Online at Northwestern?
Northwestern comes with excellent name recognition in the job market and an impeccable track record of quality. MSDS faculty in the School of Professional Studies consult with major companies on AI strategies, advise budding startups on Machine Learning, and even run their own training initiatives (e.g. Pragmatic AI Labs). The program is set up for working professionals, with flexible part-time scheduling and the choice of synchronous or asynchronous course sessions. Willing to relocate to Chicago for a year? Northwestern also offers a hybrid accelerated program that will give you access to on-campus career resources like the Immersion Week and industry networking events.
Learn More About AI at Northwestern
12 Pennsylvania State University – World Campus – University Park, PA
Overview | Online Master of Professional Studies in Artificial Intelligence
- Strong Pick For: Flexible Scheduling
- Credits: 33
- Program Length: 1-1.5 Years (Full-Time); 2-4 Years (Part-Time)
Program Summary
There’s no extra fat on Penn State’s 100% Online Master of Professional Studies (MPS) in Artificial Intelligence. This stackable degree is packed with technical coursework in AI, Deep Learning, NLP, Machine Vision, Ethics of AI, and more. You’ll be allowed to choose three elective courses in data science or AI topics (e.g. Reinforcement Learning) and finish with an applied research project. You can even earn a related AI graduate certificate as part of your studies. It’s a program that may suit busy professionals & international students—coursework is asynchronous, which means there are no mandatory log in times.
Why Study AI Online at Penn State?
It’s hard to beat the qualifications of Penn State faculty for this master’s program. We spotted doctorates from strong schools, fascinating research interests, and plenty of independent accolades. What’s more, MPS students are welcome to join student groups in artificial intelligence and participate in AI & ML events. As an insider tip, ask the program coordinator if it’s possible to work on company-sponsored AI projects through the Linux Foundation® LF AI & Data Foundation. Penn State is an associate member, which means it has ties to major tech employers (e.g. IBM, Cloudera, SAS, etc.).
Learn More About AI at Penn State
13 University of Illinois at Chicago – Chicago, IL
Overview | Online Master of Engineering – AI and Machine Learning
- Strong Pick For: Quick Turnaround
- Credits: 36
- Program Length: 1-2 Years
Program Summary
Need to get your degree done & dusted quickly? UIC’s 100% Online Master of Engineering (MEng) with an AI & Machine Learning focus can be completed in one year. The program begins with a core of math fundamentals and business & engineering courses (e.g. Engineering Management, Innovation Tools & Methods, etc.) before digging into specific artificial intelligence topics (e.g. ML, AI, Deep Neural Networks, and NLP). It’s a practical and speedy program. You won’t be able to choose any electives or complete a capstone project, but you will be schooled in a range of AI and machine learning tools & techniques.
Why Study AI Online at UIC?
UIC is a public Carnegie R1 institution with a well-funded College of Engineering. For example, the College subsidizes its own UIC Artificial Intelligence Lab (check out its projects) and a separate Natural Language Processing (NLP) Lab. You can learn more about your prospective professors by examining the bios of Online MEng faculty. Since this online master’s degree has an interdisciplinary feel, it might be a good fit for current engineers and technically-minded managers who want to gain a solid understanding of the field. You can attend an Information Session to learn if the program aligns with your career goals.
Learn More About AI at UIC
14 George Mason University – Fairfax, VA
Overview | Online Master of Science in Computer Science – Artificial Intelligence and Databases
- Strong Pick For: Software Engineers & Developers
- Credits: 30
- Program Length: ~1-2 Years
Program Summary
Mason’s Online Master of Science in Computer Science (MSCS) appears in our rankings thanks to its area of focus in AI & Databases. Like many MSCS programs, it’s built around a 12-credit core of theoretical computer science courses, including Analysis of Algorithms and an Introduction to Artificial Intelligence. But it also features 18 credits of electives, including work in Computer Vision, Software Engineering, and Data Systems. We wouldn’t recommend it for studies in esoteric AI applications, but it may be an excellent pick for software developers & engineers who need training in AI considerations. One note—there’s no capstone or thesis.
Why Study AI Online at Mason?
As an MSCS student, you’ll be a part of Mason’s well-regarded Department of Computer Science. The Department supports multiple labs & groups in machine learning (ML), NLP, and computational biology and faculty are actively engaged in AI research. Mason is located in Fairfax, Virginia, just 14 miles west of Washington, D.C. That means that the university has close ties to the government—for proof positive, see the Center of Excellence in Command, Control, Communications, Computing, and Intelligence (C4I) and its work in defense & intelligence applications. Attend a Virtual Open House (VOH) to learn more about the MSCS and the application process.
Learn More About AI at Mason
15 University of Texas at Dallas – Dallas, TX
Overview | Online Master of Science in Business Analytics and Artificial Intelligence – Data Science Track
- Strong Pick For: Business Analytics & AI
- Credits: 36
- Program Length: 18-24 Months
Program Summary
UT Dallas’s cohort-based Online Master of Science in Business Analytics and Artificial Intelligence (BUAN) comes from the Naveen Jindal School of Management. So it’s not going to have the same technical chops as UT Austin’s MSAI. Instead, it’s designed for students from a wide range of backgrounds. Core courses in the curriculum all revolve around data & business analytics, including work in statistics. It’s only when you get to the electives in the Data Science track that you’re start to see artificial intelligence credits in Applied ML, Applied NLP, and Applied Deep Learning. The catalog has detailed course descriptions. A business analytics internship is included, but there’s no capstone.
Why Study AI Online at UT Dallas?
If you’re in that sweet spot where AI, analytics, and business management intersect, UT Dallas is a great pick. The Information Systems (IS) Academic Area within the Jindal School of Management has plenty of well-qualified faculty and an extensive Industry Advisory Board. Folks who are thinking of working in the Dallas-Fort Worth area should also investigate Jindal’s Center for Information Technology and Management (CTIM). The Center helps arrange corporate internships and liaisons with a number of DFW & tech companies. This program is in the mid- to higher range for price, but $15,000 tuition scholarships are available for high-achieving online students.
Learn More About AI at UT Dallas
16 George Washington University – Washington, DC
Overview | Online Master of Engineering in Artificial Intelligence & Machine Learning
- Strong Pick For: AI & Deep Learning Engineers
- Credits: 30
- Program Length: Up to 3 Years
Program Summary
GW’s Online Master of Engineering (MEng) in Artificial Intelligence & Machine Learning is completely free of fluff! The 10-course curriculum is packed with technical credits in AI fundamentals (e.g. Machine Learning for Engineers, Quantitative Foundations in AI, etc.) and specialty interests (e.g. Computer Vision, Autonomous Systems & Robotics, and NLP with Deep Learning). Plus you’ll gain management expertise in program & project leadership, AI law & ethics, and cloud & big data management. There’s even a real-world AI capstone project. Courses are offered both synchronously and asynchronously, so it’s a good pick for folks who would like some human interaction with their professors.
Why Study AI Online at GW?
The MEng lives within GW’s School of Engineering & Applied Science (SEAS), which is located in the heart of Washington, D.C. (There’s a reason SEAS faculty often collaborate with government institutions like the NIH, NASA, and the Department of Energy!) Assess the artificial intelligence research highlights and faculty profiles in the Department of Computer Science before you start your application—you may find some inspiration for your capstone project. Better yet, GW’s relatively affordable degree is open to candidates with a bachelor’s degree in engineering, computer science, mathematics, physics, or a closely related field.
Learn More About AI at GW
17 University of Rochester – Rochester, NY
Overview | Online Master of Science in Business Analytics & Applied AI
- Strong Pick For: Business Analytics & AI
- Credits: 30
- Program Length: 14 Months (Part-Time)
Program Summary
UR’s Online Master of Science in Business Analytics (MSBA) & Applied AI is aimed at analytics professionals who want to get on top of artificial intelligence applications. The curriculum is heavily weighted toward business analytics (BA) functions—you’ll study Operations & Supply Chain Analytics, Causal & Predictive Analytics, Marketing Management Analytics, and Python Programming. Any work in AI is going to be viewed through the lens of BA decision-making. UR is looking for applicants with 3-15 years of work experience who are willing to commit to online evening classes, a capstone project, and two in-person immersion experiences.
Why Study AI Online at UR?
For more on UR’s analytics strengths, visit the website of the AACSB-accredited Simon Business School and the faculty research section on Information Systems and Technology. Some of the professors are doing intriguing things in ML and deep learning applications, social media, and leveraging AI and IT artifacts to moderate & manage digital platforms. Ask the program coordinator for a list of recent MSBA capstone projects to get a sense of how you could apply these ideas to real-world scenarios. One note—folks who are willing to live in Rochester can investigate the full-time, on-campus Master of Science in AI in Business.
Learn More About AI at UR
18 Rochester Institute of Technology – Rochester, NY
Overview | Online Master of Science in Artificial Intelligence
- Strong Pick For: Research Lovers
- Credits: 30
- Program Length: 2 Years (Part-Time)
Program Summary
RIT’s interdisciplinary Online Master of Science in Artificial Intelligence (MSAI) is a unique concoction that draws on strengths from multiple colleges. In the first year of study, you’ll complete 18 mandatory credits in Mathematical Methods for AI, Fundamentals of AI and ML, Ethics, and Research Methods. In the second year, you can concentrate on electives and your choice of a capstone project or a research-driven thesis. RIT offers a huge range of electives in AI specialty areas, including Neuromorphic Computing, Robotics, and Vision. But you’ll need to check with the program coordinator to find out what courses are available for online students.
Why Study AI Online at RIT?
We’re recommending RIT for research lovers because MSAI students have the option to become AWARE-AI NSF Research Trainees. This is a fabulous opportunity to earn a one-year funded fellowship, collaborate with professors on AI projects, and participate in career-enhancing activities. Take a look at the profiles of MSAI faculty and the AI labs in ML, robotics, hardware, and computational linguistics for research inspiration. Then wander over to the Center for Human-aware AI (CHAI) to discover what’s happening in the realm of AI systems. This is the kind of MSAI that may serve as a stepping-stone to a PhD, so talk to RIT about the possibilities of doctoral pathways.
Learn More About AI at RIT
19 Oregon State University – Corvallis, OR
Overview | Online Master of Science or Engineering in Computer Science – Artificial Intelligence
- Strong Pick For: Customizing Coursework
- Credits: 45
- Program Length: ~1-2 Years
Program Summary
At Oregon State, artificial intelligence students have a choice! If you just want to focus on coursework and couldn’t care less about research, pick the Online Master of Engineering (MEng) in Computer Science. If you’d like to work with a professor on a project or thesis, then your best bet will be the Online Master of Science in Computer Science (MSCS). Examine the curriculum to get a clear sense of the differences. All students will be expected to select at least one course from four topic areas (e.g. Software Engineering), but you’ll still have plenty of flexibility to add tons of AI and Human Computer Interaction (HCI) electives to your plan of study. You may even wish to pursue an internship.
Why Study AI Online at Oregon State?
Oregon State is a public land-grant research university with a highly respectable College of Engineering and School of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science. Anyone into robotics and HCI should have a look at the faculty research being done within the School’s Artificial Intelligence and Robotics (AIR) group and the College’s Collaborative Robotics and Intelligent Systems (CoRIS) Institute. Folks who are fascinated by IoT, smart manufacturing, and ML should think about connecting with faculty who are working on projects within the Pervasive Personalized Intelligence (PPI) Center.
Learn More About AI at Oregon State
20 Stevens Institute of Technology – Hoboken, NJ
Overview | Online Master of Science in Applied Artificial Intelligence
- Strong Pick For: Computer Engineers
- Credits: 30
- Program Length: 20 Months/5 Terms
Program Summary
SIT’s technical and 100% Online Master of Science in Applied Artificial Intelligence (MS in AAI) is hard-core. The goal is to train you for a career in any technical engineering field that requires advanced AI knowledge & skills. You’ll dive immediately into topics such as Applied Machine Learning, Big Data Analytics, Deep Learning, Control Theory, and Python. However, you can also swap any of the 10 courses with electives in a specific concentration (e.g. Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Software Engineering, or Data Engineering). Think of it as the “Pick & Mix” of online master’s degrees.
Why Study AI Online at SIT?
Within SIT’s Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering (ECE), you’ll discover the Stevens Institute for Artificial Intelligence (SIAI)—an interdisciplinary research body that draws on the expertise of 100+ faculty members. Have a look at the dizzying array of AI projects that are currently in development and learn more about the AI Research Summer Fellowship Program. While you’re there, pay a visit to the Sensing, Machine learning and Robotics Technologies Lab (SMARTLab). There’s plenty of scope for machine learning exploration as well.
Learn More About AI at SIT
21 New Jersey Institute of Technology – Newark, NJ
Overview | Online Master of Science in Artificial Intelligence
- Strong Pick For: Software Developers & Entrepreneurs
- Credits: 30
- Program Length: ~1-2 Years
Program Summary
Trying to acquire some hands-on experience? On the homepage for NJIT’s Online Master of Science in Artificial Intelligence (MSAI), the university states that MSAI students will learn how to design & build custom AI models, as well as scalable AI software architectures and APIs. The 30-credit curriculum kicks off with a choice of four courses in AI fundamentals—think of topics such as ML, Deep Learning, NLP, Reinforcement Learning, and Big Data. After that, you fill the rest of the degree up with electives and a master’s project or thesis. There’s also a coursework-only pathway for folks who don’t care for research.
Why Study AI Online at NJIT?
NJIT is one of our hidden gems. This public research university has an R1 Carnegie Classification and generally achieves $165+ million in research expenditures each year. It supports an Institute for Data Science with an impressive Advisory Board and its own Center for AI Research. It’s doing a ton of work in Robotics and Machine Intelligence. And it has relationships with useful industry partners along the Northeast corridor. Anyone interested in startups and entrepreneurial ventures should consider reaching out to the New Jersey Innovation Institute (NJII), an NJIT corporation that hosts the university’s business and technology incubator.
Learn More About AI at NJIT
What Are Online Master’s in Artificial Intelligence Degrees?
Online graduate degrees in AI are designed to introduce STEM professionals to both fundamental and advanced topics in artificial intelligence. Some distance programs in our rankings are geared toward students with an undergraduate degree in computer science or engineering. Others are tailored toward working engineers. And a few are open to business professionals who wish to improve their knowledge of AI applications.
As a general rule, online master’s degrees in AI are built to be flexible, with part-time schedules, a good deal of asynchronous coursework with no fixed class times, and customizable plans of study. You can maintain your current job while you tackle 1-2 courses per semester. However, you may wish to double-down and finish within a year on a full-time schedule (e.g. 3-4 courses per semester).
A generic Master of Science in Artificial Intelligence (MSAI) might start with prerequisites (e.g. statistics, programming, etc.) and then proceed to core coursework (ML, algorithms, etc.), electives in niche areas (e.g. robotics, deep learning, etc.), and a final capstone project. But no two online master’s degrees in AI are alike! If you read the profiles in our rankings, you’ll see that each university has tweaked the curriculum to suit the strengths of the department and the research interests of the program’s professors.
Admissions Requirements for Online AI Degrees
Each online Master’s in Artificial Intelligence has its own set of admissions requirements. We’ve included admission links in our listings so you can quickly get a handle on what’s expected. Some schools require hopefuls to apply to the college or university and the graduate school separately.
For an online graduate program in AI, most universities will expect candidates to have:
- Degree: A bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited university (or be completing the final term of undergraduate work). You will need to check the program to learn about the major. For instance, Master of Science in Computer Science programs may be looking for applicants with an undergraduate degree in computer science or computer engineering.
- Prerequisites: Undergraduate coursework in statistics, programming, and similar subjects. Prerequisites will be listed in the admissions section. Don’t worry if you’re missing some prerequisites. Universities will almost always offer these credits as online courses. You can often take them in the semester before the master’s degree begins or during the first semester.
- Minimum Grade Point Average (GPA): The standard threshold is 3.0 or higher, but it will be much more competitive if you’re applying for one of the programs in our rankings (e.g. 3.5). The GPA requirement may or may not be cumulative; some schools only want to see that the applicant maintained a high GPA during the final terms of their bachelor’s program.
- Exam Scores: Most online master’s programs in AI won’t require Graduate Record Examinations (GRE) scores, but there are a few holdouts. So check the admission link to confirm. You may also wish to consider submitting scores if you have a lower GPA than other candidates.
- Official Transcripts
In addition, graduate schools may expect master’s applicants to submit:
- Professional Résumé or CV: Many online master’s programs in artificial intelligence will be open to recent undergraduates. But a few will be looking for candidates with relevant work experience. Be sure to list any work-related internships and apprenticeships that you have completed in your undergraduate years.
- Statement of Purpose: You’ll be expected to answer a question prompt or outline your goals during program participation and beyond. Take full advantage of this opportunity! A statement is where you can shine as a unique applicant. Use the profiles in our rankings to identify how your research & career goals align with the school’s strengths.
- Letters of Recommendation: These could be from professors, mentors, supervisors, employers, or those who can speak to your work and ability to succeed in a rigorous graduate program. Take the time to explain to the letter writer why you’re choosing a specific online program & school. This information will help them shape their recommendation.
- TOEFL or IELTS Scores: These may be required for international applicants who don’t live in a country where English is the first language.
Online Master’s in AI Curriculum
Prerequisites
To be eligible for most graduate programs in AI, students must first complete foundational prerequisite coursework in areas like college-level mathematics and programming.
Prerequisites will vary from program to program, but let’s take the Online Master’s in Artificial Intelligence (MSAI) from Johns Hopkins University’s Whiting School of Engineering as an example. The university expects potential MSAI students to have completed undergraduate coursework in:
- Calculus
- Intro to Programming Using Python
- Data Structures
- Intro to Probability and Statistics
- Linear Algebra and Its Applications
- Multivariable Calculus and Complex Analysis
Be sure to check the admissions requirements for details and/or speak to the program coordinator about your situation. If you haven’t completed sufficient foundational coursework, some programs will still grant you provisional enrollment, with full admission coming after you’ve finished your prerequisites.
Core Coursework
Online master’s degrees in artificial intelligence will feature mandatory core courses that build upon foundational undergraduate credits in programming and computer science. Core courses in a standard MSAI will be technically challenging and cover topics like:
- Algorithms for Data Science
- Applied Machine Learning
- Artificial Intelligence
- Creating AI-Enabled Systems
- Foundations of Algorithms
- Introduction to Machine Learning
But it’s important to point out that core coursework will depend on the title of the degree. For instance, an Online Master of Science in Computer Science (OMSCS) may ask you to focus on “breadth” courses in all areas of computer science (e.g. software engineering). Programs with a corporate feel may expect you to complete mandatory credits in project management, ethics, and AI law.
Tip: Always read the detailed course descriptions to understand what’s being covered by your professors and the level of technical difficulty in each course. We’ve provided curriculum links in our listings. When in doubt, search for the program in the university’s Graduate Catalog.
Electives
A well-rounded online Master’s in AI will offer a range of diverse electives in advanced AI topics. For instance, elective titles for an MSAI might include Cloud Computing, Deep Learning, Natural Language Processing (NLP), Neural Networks, Applied Game Theory—the list goes on and on.
Faculty often like to offer electives in their favorite research areas, so read their bios and think about where your passions intersect. In some cases, online graduate programs will offer an industry internship and/or independent research as electives. These options will give you even more opportunities to build a work-focused portfolio of projects.
Tip: Online master’s programs in AI may not have the same number of electives as a campus-based degree, so check with the program coordinator to learn which electives will be available via distance learning.
Coursework-Only vs. Capstone vs. Thesis
Online master’s degrees in artificial intelligence in our listings are structured in three ways: coursework-only, coursework + capstone project, or coursework + thesis. The choice you make will depend on your current situation.
For instance, a coursework-only program that features core credits in AI and a wide range of advanced electives may be an excellent pick if you’re already employed and aiming to specialize in specific technical domains. This frees you from having to do advanced research.
In contrast, an online master’s program with a real-world capstone project may be ideal for folks who are seeking to improve their career options. You may wish to use it to collaborate with one of the university’s industry partners and introduce yourself to potential employers.
Finally, we’d recommend a thesis track for folks who are research-hungry and/or considering a doctorate at some point in the future. Be sure to reach out to relevant faculty members and chat to them about your ideas before you make a decision. They may wish to serve as your supervisor.
Core Skills You’ll Develop
In a standard online Master’s in AI degree program, graduates will develop high-demand skills that are usable in the job market, including:
- Proficiency with relevant programming languages such as Python
- Understanding of Machine Learning (ML) and Natural Language Processing (NLP)
- Knowledge of computer vision algorithms
- Ability to design and develop creative AI software and systems models
- Ability to test software and systems to ensure or improve functioning
- Collaborative teamwork skills
- Knowledge of AI-related principles of physics, engineering, and robotics
In addition to general skills, students can use electives to focus on a particular path of study and area of AI specialization.
Why Should You Get an Online Master’s in Artificial Intelligence?
It’s not an understatement to say that the future relies on sufficient numbers of qualified artificial intelligence experts graduating from college and entering the business and governmental sectors where they are vitally needed. The world faces an AI workforce shortage that could reach critical mass in the coming years if not addressed.
Apart from serving the greater good, earning an online Master’s in AI offers several personal benefits. Chief among these may be the number of high-paying career prospects available for skilled AI workers. Here are a few possible career choices for candidates with a graduate degree in AI, plus their average salaries (2024-2025):
- Algorithm Specialist – $115k
- Artificial Intelligence Engineering – $106k
- Artificial Intelligence Researcher – $98k
- Artificial Intelligence Software Engineer – $121k
- Computer Scientist – $89k
- Engineering Consultant – $145k
- Natural Language Processing – $119k
- Robotics Engineer – $120k
Keep in mind that the above-listed salaries are based on averages. Actual salaries will depend on several variables, including who the employer is, the number of years of experience the worker has, any specialization skills or job requirements, and geographic location.
How to Choose the Best Online Artificial Intelligence Program For You
First, it’s important to find a reputable school that is regionally accredited and willing to put its funding dollars behind AI research. Just because a college has a stellar reputation doesn’t mean its computer science department is up to par. Look for programmatic accreditation from ABET as an additional sign of quality.
Then check out the program’s faculty bios. Read about their achievements, awards, and areas of specialty, such as computing, engineering, robotics, etc. An online master’s program in AI is only as good as its professors or instructors, so pay attention to who is teaching your classes. If the catalog doesn’t say, reach out to the program coordinator and ask.
For the money you’re paying, you’ll want a graduate program that speaks to your career goals. Are you aiming to specialize in AI, advanced machine learning or data science? Would you like to focus on high-level theory or would you prefer something more hands-on and practical? Do you want to work with robots or autonomous vehicles? Think about your true interests and compare them to the curriculum and elective offerings.
Then look at the extras. What sorts of resources & extracurricular opportunities does the program offer? Larger institutions tend to have greater research budgets. They’ll fund AI labs and work on cutting-edge projects that students may participate in. They will also have connections with major companies who are looking to snag AI graduates to work in lucrative-paying jobs.
Once you have a 3-4 online programs on your shortlist, start thinking about price. Compare costs and make decisions based on how much you can afford or secure funding for through scholarships, grants, loans, employer tuition reimbursement, or other financial aid sources.
Artificial Intelligence FAQ
Are Online Graduate Degrees in AI Worth the Money?
Before you make any decision about graduate school, we’d urge you to talk to your supervisors, professional peers, and—most importantly—recent alumni to discover if an MS is worth the investment. There’s a lot of debate about whether online master’s degrees in AI are “cash cows” for schools who don’t bother to keep up with the latest technical developments.
In the case of the top 21 schools in our rankings, we’d push back against this argument. These kinds of programs do a stellar job of ensuring that master’s students gain a solid credential that employers respect. When it comes to graduate school, you’re not really paying for the coursework. You’re paying for valuable connections to industry partners, faculty collaborations, and opportunities to work on cutting-level research.
Which Degree Title Should I Choose for an Online Master’s in AI?
We cover this topic in detail in our guide to the Best Master’s in AI programs, where we compare the pros & cons of a Master of Science in Computer Science (MSCS), Master of Science in AI (MSAI), Master of Engineering (MEng), Master of Science in Data Science (MSDS), and a whole lot more.
As a general rule, the MSCS is held in the highest regard for comp sci professionals, an MEng from a College of Engineering will be favored for engineering professionals, and an MSCS or MS in Applied Statistics will rule the day for data science professionals.
However, these rules could be changing. Technical Ivies and top-tier universities are now tailoring MSAI & MSDS degrees to be hyper-focused on AI concerns. If you already hold an undergraduate degree in computer science or a closely related field (or you’d like to switch career streams without earning another undergraduate degree), you may wish to dive straight in.
What will matter most is the real-world relevance of the courses, the chance to work on industry projects, and the quality of the faculty. When you start exploring the profiles in our online rankings, you’ll notice that each program has unique strengths. Focus on that when making a decision.
How Do Online AI Programs Differ From Their On-Campus Counterparts?
Artificial Intelligence coursework is tailor-made for online learning, especially at the graduate level. However, it must be stated that campus classes allow for in-person experiences with professors and peers that remote learning can’t duplicate. Every student has a different learning style, so distance education may more feasible for some and less for others.
Many online master’s programs in AI feature asynchronous, “learn on your own time” coursework. Lectures will be recorded for viewing at any point and assignments can be completed when you have hours to spare. You’ll still be expected to submit work at certain times and achieve milestones, but nobody is going to be looking over your shoulder. If you’d like to speak to a lecturer, you can visit them during virtual office hours.
If you’d prefer a more interactive experience, look for online programs with synchronous, “real-time” elements like Zoom lectures and class discussions on weekday evenings. Just remember the time difference! We’re especially fond of Georgia Tech’s OMSCS because it features optional extras like local meet-ups and the hybrid annual conference.
Note: Some of the programs in our rankings and listings will also be available in a hybrid format, with a combination of online and on-campus courses. If you live near a top school, this may be a worthwhile compromise.
Schools with Online Master’s in Artificial Intelligence Programs
Alabama
Troy University
Department of Computer Science
Troy, Alabama
California
University of San Diego
Shiley-Marcos School Of Engineering
San Diego, California
Colorado
Colorado State University Global
Graduate Department
Aurora, Colorado
Colorado State University-Fort Collins
Department of Computer Science
Fort Collins, Colorado
Connecticut
University of New Haven
Pompea College of Business
West Haven, Connecticut
Florida
Florida Atlantic University
Department of Computer and Electrical Engineering and Computer Science
Boca Raton, Florida
MS in Artificial Intelligence
Offered Online
Nova Southeastern University
College of Computing and Engineering
Fort Lauderdale, Florida
Georgia
Columbus State University
School of Computer Science
Columbus, Georgia
Kennesaw State University
Department of Computer Science
Kennesaw, Georgia
Illinois
DePaul University
College of Computing and Digital Media
Chicago, Illinois
Northwestern University
School of Professional Studies
Evanston, Illinois
University of Illinois at Chicago
College of Engineering
Chicago, Illinois
Indiana
Ball State University
The Miller College of Business
Muncie, Indiana
Kentucky
University of the Cumberlands
Hutton School of Business
Williamsburg, Kentucky
Maine
University of Maine
Graduate School
Orono, Maine
Maryland
Capitol Technology University
Computer Science, Artificial Intelligence and Data Science
Laurel, Maryland
Johns Hopkins University
Whiting School of Engineering
Baltimore, Maryland
Massachusetts
Wentworth Institute of Technology
School of Computing & Data Science
Boston, Massachusetts
Michigan
Davenport University
College of Technology
Grand Rapids, Michigan
Kettering University
College of Engineering
Flint, Michigan
University of Michigan-Dearborn
Computer and Information Science Department
Dearborn, Michigan
MS in Artificial Intelligence
Offered Online
Minnesota
Saint Mary's University of Minnesota
Graduate School
Winona, Minnesota
Missouri
University of Central Missouri
Graduate School
Warrensburg, Missouri
New Jersey
Stevens Institute of Technology
Department of Electrical & Computer Engineering
Hoboken, New Jersey
New York
Pace University-New York
Seidenberg School of CSIS
New York, New York
Yeshiva University
Katz School of Science and Health
New York, New York
North Carolina
Duke University
School of Engineering
Durham, North Carolina
Pennsylvania
Drexel University
College of Computing & Informatics
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania State University-World Campus
World Campus
University Park, Pennsylvania
Saint Joseph's University
Department of Computer Science
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Villanova University
School of Business
Villanova, Pennsylvania
Texas
Rice University
Department of Computer Science
Houston, Texas
Southern Methodist University
Lyle School of Engineering
Dallas, Texas
Texas A & M University-Commerce
Department of Computer Science and Information Systems
Commerce, Texas
The University of Texas at Austin
College of Natural Sciences
Austin, Texas
West Virginia
University of Charleston
Graduate Department
Charleston, West Virginia
Wisconsin
University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee
College of Engineering & Applied Science
Milwaukee, Wisconsin
