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Online Master’s Degrees & Machine Learning
Let’s say you’re a lover of machine learning, but you have existing work commitments. Your employer is offering you tuition reimbursement for graduate education and you’re seriously considering an online master’s degree in ML. Which schools offer specialized graduate degrees in machine learning? How expensive are they? And will an online MS in machine learning be respected in the job market? Our rankings of the 15 Best Online Master’s in Machine Learning Programs will give you the answers!
In our profiles, you’ll find advanced machine learning programs for computing professionals, data scientists, and hard-core engineers, as well as MBA-type alternatives for business analysts. There are technical MSCS options from big-name universities like Georgia Tech and NYU and foundational programs for career changers. Because each online ML program is truly unique, we’ve also highlighted important notes about program coursework and the school’s AI & ML research strengths.
Above all, our guide to online machine learning master’s degrees is designed to help you save time & money. Once you’ve read through these ML profiles, we recommend you compare them with our rankings of the Best Online Master’s in AI Programs and/or Best Online Master’s in Data Science & AI Programs. Coursework in machine learning is present in all three categories.
15 Best Online Master’s in Machine Learning Programs
1 Georgia Institute of Technology – Atlanta, GA
Overview | Online Master of Science in Computer Science – Machine Learning Specialization
- Strong Pick For: Affordability; Customizing Coursework
- Credits: 30
- Program Length: 1-2 Years
Program Summary
Georgia Tech’s eminently affordable Online Master of Science in Computer Science (OMSCS) is available in a number of specializations, but we’re highlighting the Machine Learning track for these rankings. The 30-credit program is split into two halves. For the ML specialization, you’ll tackle 6 credits of core courses in two subjects: Algorithms and Machine Learning. But after that, you’re at liberty to select 9 credits of electives in ML topics, including Deep Learning, Machine Learning for Trading, Bayesian Methods, and NLP. (Online courses are highlighted in bold). The remaining half of the degree can be completed with computer science electives, including some intriguing options in cybersecurity. And the best part? You can complete the program for under $7,000!
Note: Compare the ML pathway with the Interactive Intelligence specialization.
What Makes Georgia Tech a Great Machine Learning School?
There’s a reason everyone in the AI world is talking about Georgia Tech! The OMSCS has racked up 10,000 alumni in the first 10 years, but online students still earn the same reputable degree as their on-campus counterparts. Better still, the university has created a host of networking & career opportunities for OMSCS distance learners. For ML specialists, we recommend a visit to the School of Interactive Computing’s section on Artificial Intelligence & Machine Learning—links to faculty with ML interests are listed below the summary—and the school’s interdisciplinary Machine Learning Center (ML@GT). Over at the School of Computational Science and Engineering, you’ll find similar faculty bios in its precis of AI & ML engineering research. You can also browse the section on Program News to learn more about student achievements, alumni spotlights, and current research work.
Learn More About ML at Georgia Tech:
2 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 Years (Full-Time); 3-4 Years (Part-Time)
Program Summary
To make graduate education as practical as possible, the Paul G. Allen School of Computer Science & Engineering has created a series of Professional Master’s Programs (PMPs). The 100% Online Master of Science in AI and ML for Engineering is available in a part-time or full-time plan of study and based on a unique “stackable” model. You’ll start by completing a Graduate Certificate in Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) for Engineering. This will be complemented by another graduate certificate in an engineering-focused discipline such as Data Analytics for Systems Operations. There is a graduate certificate in AI/ML-driven Molecular & Process Engineering, but you may need to tackle chemical engineering coursework first. The icing on the cake is a two-quarter applied capstone project. If you’re an engineer involved in hands-on work, this one’s for you!
What Makes UW a Great Machine Learning School?
Name recognition! UW is a big deal on the West Coast and some graduates are earning in excess of $154,000 per annum two to three years after graduation. Within the Allen School, you’ll find plenty of research work in AI and Machine Learning, but we’d recommend you take a close look at the faculty profiles for this particular program. MS in AIML professors are closely involved in the eScience Institute and its work in Scientific Software Engineering. If it’s all sounding good so far, ask the program coordinator for a list of recent capstone projects. Then take that info into a meeting with your current employer to talk about the possibility of tuition reimbursement. Because this is a stackable degree, you’ll be earning ML-relevant credentials along the way and putting yourself in line for promotion within your organization.
Learn More About ML at UW:
3 Columbia University in the City of New York – New York City, NY
Overview | Online Master of Science in Computer Science – Machine Learning
- Strong Pick For: Advanced ML Electives; Customizing Coursework
- Credits: 30
- Program Length: Up to 5 Years; 3 Years on Average
Program Summary
To deliver the 100% Online Master of Science in Computer Science (MSCS) – Machine Learning, Columbia’s School of Engineering and Applied Science leverages the power of its Columbia Video Network. You’ll start with a breadth component, which requires 1-2 courses from each of three content areas: Systems, Theory, and AI & Applications. Then you’ll be able to concentrate on the Machine Learning track. In this track, you can choose to focus on theory, relevant sub-topics (e.g. Unsupervised Learning, Neural Networks, etc.), and/or applications (e.g. Machine Learning for Data Science). Plus you can select two electives in even more advanced ML areas. As you might expect, admission is competitive; most students hold an undergraduate computer science degree plus top grades in mathematics (e.g. linear algebra) and computer science (e.g. advanced programming).
What Makes Columbia a Great Machine Learning School?
For more on Columbia’s strengths, visit the Department of Computer Science’s section on Machine Learning @ Columbia and reach out to faculty who share your interests. For example, Elias Bareinboim is the director of the Causal Artificial Intelligence Lab and David Knowles runs the Knowles Lab, which sits at the intersection of ML and genomics. Unsurprisingly, a number of these faculty members are also involved with Columbia’s highly regarded Data Science Institute. Online students won’t have the same daily networking opportunities as on-campus students, but it’s worth connecting with the department’s specialty student groups (e.g. Women in Computer Science). They will be invaluable sources of inside information on the degree & career planning. Before you apply, we also suggest you ask the program coordinator which machine learning electives will be available to online CVN students; some electives may only be offered on-campus.
Learn More About ML at Columbia:
4 Duke University – Durham, NC
Overview | Online Master of Engineering Management – Data Analytics & Machine Learning
- Strong Pick For: Tech Leadership; Business Analysts
- Credits: 30
- Program Length: 2 Years
Program Summary
Duke bills its Online Master of Engineering Management (MEM) as an MBA alternative for leadership-focused science and engineering students. This part-time, two-year program is a more flexible alternative to Duke’s one-year campus program. You’ll first complete a core of four management courses in marketing, finance, management, entrepreneurship & business law. (It’s a condensed version of MBA coursework, but with a special interest in high tech industries.) Then you’ll focus on four courses in Data Analytics and Machine Learning. This track prepares students for business & data analyst careers through coursework in data science, financial analysis, and data visualization. The most relevant introductory ML course is Machine Learning Principles and Applications for Engineering Managers. To help MEM students to connect with classmates and deliver their capstone project presentations, the program also features three campus residencies.
Note: Hoping to major in computer science or electrical & computer engineering with a focus on ML research? See our summary of Duke’s on-campus programs in our Best Master’s in AI rankings.
What Makes Duke a Great Machine Learning School?
First things first – the MEM is not an advanced technical degree. However, it is offered by the Pratt School of Engineering and comes with instant name recognition. Plus it’s backed by experienced faculty and a well-connected Advisory Board. Take a look at the summary on Graduate Outcomes to learn which companies have ended up hiring MEM alumni. This section also contains a Tableau of top job roles (e.g. software engineers & software development engineers). Duke is even happy to match you for an informational interview with a current MEM student who is working in your field of interest or research area. Not feeling technical enough? Duke also offers an Online Master of Engineering (MEng) – Artificial Intelligence & Product Innovation. Granted, it doesn’t have Machine Learning in the name. However, this MEng has plenty of ML coursework and opportunities to get involved in internships & industry-focused projects.
Learn More About ML at Duke:
Explore Duke’s Online MEM – Data Analytics & Machine Learning
5 New York University – New York City, NY
Overview | Online Master of Science in Emerging Technologies – Machine Learning & Artificial Intelligence
- Strong Pick For: Customizing Coursework; Urban ML Applications
- Credits: 30
- Program Length: 2-3 Years
Program Summary
NYU’s Online Master of Science (MS) in Emerging Technologies – Machine Learning & Artificial Intelligence is one of our top picks for folks who want to design their own plan of study. Examine the curriculum in the Bulletin to see what we mean. In this interdisciplinary, 30-credit program, you’ll be allowed to choose 12 credits in the ML & AI concentration and 18 remaining credits in electives (e.g. robotics, cybersecurity, AR technologies, etc.). In addition to standard courses in ML foundations, deep learning, and algorithms, there are plenty of intriguing options in ML & data science, bioinformatics, and even ML for cities. The program culminates in a capstone in either Advanced Machine Learning or AI for Games.
What Makes NYU a Great Machine Learning School?
We’ve highlighted the course on Machine Learning for Cities for a reason! NYU’s Tandon School of Engineering is located in New York City, one of the world’s most vibrant urban centers, and it has a strong stake in large-scale infrastructural challenges. Take a look at what’s happening in the Center for Urban Science + Progress (CUSP) for more on its numerous research labs & groups, including the Machine Learning for Good Laboratory (ML4G). Eyeing the data science electives? Pay a visit to the Center for Data Science (CIDS) and research its CILVR (Computational Intelligence, Learning, Vision, and Robotics) lab and Machine Learning for Language (ML²) lab. Thinking about robotics or optimization? NYU Tandon provides a useful summary of all relevant research labs & centers in the section on Data Science / AI / Robotics.
Learn More About ML at NYU:
6 University of Southern California – Los Angeles, CA
Overview | Online Master of Science in Materials Engineering – Machine Learning
- Strong Pick For: Materials Engineers; Manufacturing Sector Applications
- Credits: 28
- Program Length: 1.5-2 Years (Full-Time); 2.5-3 Years (Part-Time)
Program Summary
USC’s Online Master of Science in Materials Engineering – Machine Learning is a hyper-specific degree that examines the intersection of ML and materials discovery, design, and processing. Professional engineers can complete it online through DEN@Viterbi. The core of the curriculum consists of three courses in Basics of Machine Learning for Materials, Mathematical Methods for Deep Learning, and Basics of Atomistic Simulation of Materials. After that, you can select four electives in materials engineering and related disciplines (e.g. energy, mechanics of solids, advanced mechanical design, solid-state devices, etc.). None of them are focused on advanced ML, so talk to the program coordinator about how you’ll be applying core course concepts to practical projects in the electives.
Note: Comp sci & data science professionals should examine USC’s profile in our Best Master’s in AI rankings to learn more about alternative programs.
What Makes USC a Great Machine Learning School?
Within the Viterbi School of Engineering, you’ll find the Mork Family Department of Chemical Engineering & Materials Science (MFD) and its section on Harnessing Data Science and Machine Learning. This will give you a more comprehensive understanding of faculty interests and current projects. To take just one example, materials researchers at USC were able to develop a new ML framework that helped perform simulations of light control of materials that were 10 million times greater than conventional methods. For this program, we also recommend a visit to the Materials Genome Innovation for Computational Software (MAGICS) center and the Collaboratory for Advanced Computing and Simulations (CASC). This is where you’ll find the professors who’ll be teaching your core courses.
Learn More About ML at USC:
Explore USC’s Online MS in Materials Engineering – Machine Learning
7 Purdue University – West Lafayette, IN
Overview | Online Master of Science in Artificial Intelligence – AI and Machine Learning
- Strong Pick For: Affordability; ML Engineers
- Credits: 30
- Program Length: 1.5 Years
Program Summary
There are two majors in Purdue’s low-cost Online Master of Science in Artificial Intelligence (MSAI), but we’re going to focus on the AI and Machine Learning pathway. Examine the Courses Breakdown to learn how its structured. All AI & ML students must take credits in AI Fundamentals, AI Policy, and the Societal Impacts of AI. But after that it gets more technical, with two mandatory courses in ML and Data Mining, as well as four electives in your choice of subjects. For instance, ML geeks could pick Statistical Machine Learning, Optimization for Deep Learning, Reinforcement Learning, and Advanced Topics in Scientific Machine Learning. The program finishes with a capstone project and costs under $30,000.
What Makes Purdue a Great Machine Learning School?
Intrigued? Your next step is to visit Purdue’s Department of Computer Science (CS) and the research section on Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning & Natural Language Processing. This contains a long list of faculty members with an especial interest in ML. In particular, pay attention to professors who have a stake in MINDS: Data Science, Machine Learning, and AI. ML work at Purdue isn’t limited to the CS department—faculty in the School of Electrical & Computer Engineering are involved in all kinds of practical applications, including the development of trustworthy ML and transfer learning for efficient ML. Thinking about your capstone? The CS department has some impressive corporate partners who may need help on industry challenges.
Learn More About ML at Purdue:
8 Rice University – Houston, TX
Overview | Online Master of Data Science – Machine Learning
- Strong Pick For: Data Science; Faculty Interactions
- Credits: 31
- Program Length: 1.5-2 Years (Full-Time); 2.5-3 Years (Part-Time)
Program Summary
If you’re hyper-focused on big data and statistics, consider Rice’s Online Master of Data Science (MDS) and its Machine Learning track. This online data science program can be completed in 18 months on a full-time schedule, but it’s ideal for part-time students with a 24- to 36-month time to completion. We also like the fact that Rice keeps class sizes small, which allows for one-on-one time with faculty. The curriculum consists of 31 total credit hours: a data science core, the machine learning specialization, and one elective in computing, ethics, or security. View the Sample Degree Plans for more on the ML pathway – there will be work in deep learning, data mining, and network science & analytics. The program does not require a thesis, but students tackle a real-world problem through a capstone project in Rice’s Data to Knowledge (D2K) Lab.
What Makes Rice University a Great Machine Learning School?
Rice’s innovative program is part of the university’s Data Science Initiative, which is aimed at training talented data scientists, developing new data science methods through ML and NLP, and applying these advancements to important industries (e.g. biomedicine, geoscience, marketing, etc.). Have a look at the section on Methods Development research to learn more about faculty who have a special interest in ML. Rice’s Data to Knowledge Lab takes it one step further by empowering students to use big data to solve real issues at major companies. In addition to supporting student-run data science clubs and organizing events such as data science hackathons and datathons, the Lab maintains a useful archive of industry-affiliated MDS capstone projects. Plus Rice has strong relationships with Houston-based businesses, giving alumni students an edge with Texas energy & healthcare employers interested in hiring ML talent.
Learn More About ML at Rice University:
9 University of Illinois at Chicago – Chicago, IL
Overview | Online Master of Engineering – AI and Machine Learning
- Strong Pick For: Affordability; Engineering Management
- Credits: 36
- Program Length: 1-2 Years
Program Summary
The University of Illinois Chicago’s Online Master of Engineering (MEng) is part of their nationally-recognized College of Engineering. For these rankings, we’re setting our sights on the focus area in AI and Machine Learning. You’ll complete a total of nine courses (36 total credits) in this pathway, with four courses that are devoted to AI & ML, including work in AI, Deep Neural Networks, Machine Learning, and Natural Language Processing. Keep in mind that all MEng students are expected to take leadership-focused credits in Engineering Law and Engineering Management, regardless of their chosen track. And there’s no capstone project. Coursework is 100% online and self-paced; the average student completes the program in under two years.
What Makes UIC a Great Machine Learning School?
Reputation matters here – UIC is a Carnegie R1 institution, meaning it conducts academic research at the highest levels. The Department of Computer Science UIC also runs several relevant research labs, with work in AI and NLP. Check out the department’s profiles of faculty with interests in ML & Data Mining research areas, then head on over to the Department of Electrical & Computer Engineering’s ECE research section to learn more about engineering-specific applications. ECE professors are doing some fascinating things in the realms of AI, signal processing, data science, and machine learning. Another factor that may sway your decision? Price. The entire program is ~$32,000 – less than half of what you’ll pay for some other machine learning graduate degrees.
Learn More About ML at UIC:
10 Stevens Institute of Technology – Hoboken, NJ
Overview | Online Master of Science in Machine Learning
- Strong Pick For: Machine Learning Research; ML Engineers
- Credits: 30
- Program Length: ~1-2 Years
Program Summary
Stevens Institute of Technology offers many fascinating programs in fields like artificial intelligence and data science, but the Master of Science (MS) in Machine Learning may be the most relevant to your needs. This 30-credit degree is extremely flexible! You can study online or on-campus, full- or part-time, and take advantage of SIT’s unique research opportunities. The online program is especially appealing because the entire curriculum focuses on ML foundations and advanced skills. You’ll complete three core courses in ML foundations, NLP, and ML applications and then select a course in Deep Learning, Statistical Machine Learning, or AI. The remainder of the degree can be supplemented with electives in a range of topics, including applied statistics, cognitive computing, optimization, and big data technologies.
Note: SIT also offers an Online Master of Science in Applied Artificial Intelligence (MS in AAI).
What Makes SIT a Great Machine Learning School?
In the New York area, SIT is known as a top artificial intelligence and machine learning research institution. Students are able to participate in the university’s exciting ML work at the Stevens Institute for Artificial Intelligence (SIAI), the Health and AI Lab (HAIL), the Department of Computer Science, and beyond. Faculty members have been recognized by the National Science Foundation (NSF) and consult for companies like Microsoft. And because SIT is located so close to New York City and Manhattan, graduates have an inside track on networking with top companies. The ML graduate program has a 100% employment rate after three months and alumni have accepted positions with Amazon, Intel, IBM, Google, and more.
Learn More About ML at SIT:
11 Southern Methodist University – Dallas, TX
Overview | Online Master of Science in Data Science – Machine Learning
- Strong Pick For: Data Science; Mid-Level Professionals; Career Changers
- Credits: 33.5
- Program Length: 20 Months/5 Terms (Full-Time); 28 Months/7 Terms (Part-Time)
Program Summary
Located in one of Texas’s tech hubs, Dallas’s Southern Methodist University is home to an interdisciplinary Online Master of Science in Data Science (MSDS). This 33.5-credit program uses a skills-based curriculum that pulls in knowledge from three distinct schools — Humanities and Sciences, Engineering, and Arts. The core of the curriculum revolves around data science fundamentals. The Machine Learning specialization covers advanced ML topics, NLP, and one elective (e.g. Cloud Computing). SMU’s fully online program takes 20-28 months to complete, with four convenient start dates offered throughout the year. Students can attend live, synchronous sessions and will benefit from small student-faculty ratios. Career changers with limited technical knowledge can complete the online Data Science Boot Camp and apply its credits towards the degree.
What Makes SMU a Great Machine Learning School?
SMU’s location in Dallas puts the school ahead of the curve in the Southwest. For example, it draws on the expertise of adjunct data science faculty with experience in Fortune 500 companies and research interests in a range of topics. It’s an especially strong pick for career changers and mid-level professionals, including folks who need data science training for their roles in tech-related arenas (e.g. marketing, finance, software development, IT, engineering, etc.). Browse through the class profile and alumni profiles to learn about typical MSDS students. For folks who are reevaluating job goals, the university even offers career one-on-ones with data science professionals. Popular employers have included Adobe, Apple, Amazon, Cisco, Facebook, IBM, Microsoft, and more.
Learn More About ML at SMU:
12 George Washington University – Washington, DC
Overview | Online Master of Engineering (MEng) in Artificial Intelligence & Machine Learning
- Strong Pick For: Working Professionals; Project Management
- Credits: 30
- Program Length: Up to 3 Years
Program Summary
GW’s Online Master of Engineering (MEng) in Artificial Intelligence & Machine Learning is explicitly designed for working professionals. It’s 100% online, with a mix of synchronous, real-time aspects and asynchronous “learn on your own time” coursework. With this MEng, you follow a fixed plan of study—there are no electives or concentrations. However, you’ll still find plenty of thoughtful work contained in the ten courses, including studies in foundational areas (e.g. Machine Learning for Engineers and Python Applications in Data Analytics), more advanced topics (e.g. NLP with Deep Learning), and an AI capstone project. Having said that, it’s a solid all-rounder rather than a deep-dive ML degree.
What Makes GW a Great Machine Learning School?
Because the curriculum is set in stone, we suggest you talk to the program coordinator about how you can adapt the MEng to suit your ML goals. The degree is offered by GW’s School of Engineering & Applied Science (SEAS), which has a lot of helpful ties to government institutions in Washington D.C. (e.g. Department of Energy). You’ll also find a summary of the university’s AI/Machine Learning research and bios of ML-related faculty within the Department of Computer Science. Folks who are hungering to work on ML research and need something more targeted than the online MEng can consider the department’s on-campus MSCS, which can be customized to suit almost any field.
Learn More About ML at GW:
13 Drexel University – Philadelphia, PA
Overview | Online Master of Science in Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning
- Strong Pick For: Customizing Coursework; ML Engineers & Specialists
- Credits: 45
- Program Length: 2 Years (Full-Time); 2+ Years (Part-Time)
Program Summary
Founded in 1891, Drexel University is a Carnegie R1 institution with a longstanding reputation for quality in the Northeast. The technically-focused Online Master of Science in Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning (MSAIML) from the College of Computing & Informatics (CCI) is offered in an on-campus or online format and provides plenty of opportunities for customization. The 45-credit curriculum features five core courses, three required electives in a concentration area, seven free electives, and, finally, a team-oriented, multi-term capstone project. See the Graduate Catalog for a comprehensive list of course titles & descriptions. It takes an average of two years for full-time students to complete; part-time working students can slow that pace down.
What Makes Drexel a Great Machine Learning School?
Drexel’s program may be a little longer than some of the other degrees in our rankings, but it will provide you with a thorough grounding in the field and exposure to serious faculty members. Browse through their work in AI, Machine Learning & Robotics Research, then look closely at the courses offered in the concentrations for the MSAIML. You can explore everything from Applied Machine Learning for Data Science to Applications of ML, Responsible ML, and Applied Machine Learning Engineering. Recruiters tend to love Drexel’s CCI grads because they know they’ll gain valuable employees who are ready to work. In addition to the industry-focused capstone, the school offers many opportunities to connect students with companies.
Learn More About ML at Drexel:
14 Villanova University – Villanova, PA
Overview | Online Professional MBA – Applied Artificial Intelligence & Machine Learning
- Strong Pick For: Tech Leadership; Business Analysts
- Credits: 48
- Program Length: ~2 Years
Program Summary
Villanova’s Online Professional MBA – Applied Artificial Intelligence & Machine Learning is designed for folks who don’t need (or want) a technical degree—all courses use low code/no code modeling platforms. That’s why credits in the AI/ML concentration are focused on business applications, business case prototypes, AI ethics, and Generative AI. Like all MBA programs, you’ll also be required to take foundational courses in key areas of business (e.g. accounting, economics, finance, marketing, etc.). Online students at Villanova can take part in the MBA through 1-hour live sessions and asynchronous assignments. And the program culminates in capstones that take the form of a Social Enterprise Consulting Practicum, a Global Practicum, and work in Global Strategic Management.
What Makes Villanova a Great Machine Learning School?
Even though Villanova’s degree is miles away from the technical MSCS or MEng programs in our rankings, we wanted to include it so you could compare it with Duke’s business-focused MEM. The AACSB-accredited Villanova School of Business doesn’t have the same global reputation as UIC Booth or Northwestern Kellogg, but it achieves respectable rankings and it sponsors an MBA Mentoring Program with Villanova alumni and corporate partners. Feel free to reach out to the MBA Ambassadors before you submit your application. A number of them came into the program with undergraduate degrees in engineering disciplines. You could also talk to alumni who are featured in the Student Testimonials section of the AI/ML concentration to learn more about the relevance of coursework to their current jobs.
Learn More About ML at Villanova:
15 Colorado State University Global – Denver, CO
Overview | Online Master of Science in Artificial Intelligence & Machine Learning
- Strong Pick For: Affordability; Career Changers
- Credits: 30
- Program Length: Under 2 Years
Program Summary
Like GW’s offering, CSU’s Online Master of Science (MS) in Artificial Intelligence & Machine Learning is what we’d call a foundational program. The ten-course curriculum starts with basic Principles of Programming and Principles of Software Development before sliding into AI and ML topics, including Foundations of Artificial Intelligence, Principles of Machine Learning, and Design and Analysis of Algorithms. There are no electives. We were on the fence about including it in our ML rankings, but we were swayed by the capstone. For this final project, you will be expected to focus on work in Applying Machine Learning and Neural Networks. MS candidates are expected to have taken an advanced courses in Discrete Mathematics and Probability and Statistics, but you can complete these prerequisites through CSU.
What Makes CSU Global a Great Machine Learning School?
Affordability and speed may be key factors in your decision. The total cost of CSU’s 100% online degree is just above $20,000 and the 8-week semesters make it easier to get through the program quickly. As we’ve noted, it’s not a degree that’s going to impress employers who are looking for high-level technical ML expertise. Instead, it may be a better fit for someone who doesn’t have any background in computer science and wants to be guided through various levels of AI. We also want to point out that it’s coming from CSU Global, which is a separate entity to the Fort Collins campus. So you won’t have the same experience as an on-campus graduate student who is working with faculty in CSU-Fort Collins’s Department of Computer Science. Before applying, ask the program coordinator for a list of faculty to gauge their level of expertise.
Learn More About ML at CSU Global:
Rankings Methodology
Our goal in ranking schools with the best Online Master’s in Machine Learning Programs is to simplify your research by highlighting quality degrees. We consider many factors when evaluating ML options and designing our rankings algorithm, including:
- Program Focus: Schools package AI and machine learning programs as stand-alone degrees, concentrations tied to core subjects like computer science, and more. To keep things specific, we have only included graduate degree programs with machine learning in the program name or emphasis.
- Program Delivery: Online degrees come in many shapes and sizes. Some are 100% online or hybrid, whereas others only offer one or two courses online. For these rankings, we’ve only considered programs that are fully online or primarily online with limited campus visits (e.g. Duke’s residencies).
- Academic Reputation & Awards: Our algorithm takes into account external recognitions (e.g. U.S. News) and departmental reputation in fields related to machine learning (e.g. computer science, statistics, analytics, and more). We’ve also factored in the university’s AI research output.
- Price & Outcomes: We didn’t stop there! Our rankings algorithm includes data points on real-world concerns such as tuition costs, graduate completion rates, and earnings potential. That’s why Georgia Tech’s super-affordable OMSCS stands at #1 and UW—with its strong showing in degree completions and high median salaries for alumni—stands at #2.
- Average Performance: The final step was to review and reward schools that performed well in multiple categories rather than excelling in one area.
This process allowed us to highlight 15 great schools with Online Master’s in Machine Learning Programs, but don’t take our word for it! Our list is an excellent place to begin your research, but it’s important to review all options to find the best program for your goals and interests. Consider what you’ll learn, what it takes to get in, and what you can afford. We’ve included quick links to admissions and tuition sections to speed you on your way.
Types of Machine Learning Graduate Programs Available Online
During the research phrase for our rankings, we unearthed many kinds of online master’s in machine learning graduate programs. Distance learning degrees in ML come in all shapes and sizes, so there are multiple options suitable for almost any career situation.
Technical: We’d place programs like Georgia Tech’s OMSCS, Columbia’s Online MSCS – Machine Learning, Stevens Institute of Technology’s Online MS in Machine Learning, and Drexel’s Online MSAIML in this category. These are degrees that have been developed by Departments of Computer Science and are designed for applicants with a strong undergraduate record in computer science & mathematics. They’ll allow you to customize your plan of study with advanced ML electives and—hopefully—won’t bore you with things you already know.
Foundational: This is what we’d call degrees that have a lower threshold of entry than high-level technical programs. They’re often open to career changers and folks with a wider range of undergraduate majors. Plus you may only need 2-3 prerequisites in order to apply. To get a grip on this kind of program, examine the profiles on GW’s Online MEng in AI & ML and CSU’s Online MS in AI & ML. These types of degrees will always start with a fair amount of credits in fundamental areas (e.g. principles of programming).
Engineering: Colleges of Engineering have also been busy developing practical machine learning programs that are specifically designed for engineers. Examples of these would include UW’s Online MS in AIML for Engineering, USC’s Online MS in Materials Engineering – ML, and UIC’s Online MEng – AI & ML. In the case of USC, the program is directly targeted at materials engineers who are working in the manufacturing sector. UIC’s is more of cross-breed between a technical ML degree and an engineering program—you’ll get computing work, but you’ll also have to take credits in engineering law & engineering management.
Data Science: We’ve included two strong online choices for aspiring data scientists in these rankings (Rice and Southern Methodist University). However, it’s worth stating that these were just the programs that had specific machine learning specializations. If you are thinking of earning a graduate degree in DS, be sure to visit our rankings of the Best Online Master’s in Data Science & AI Programs. Although machine learning may not be in the title, all reputable data science degrees will be exploring ML theory & applications.
Business: We’ve even unearthed a couple of machine learning programs that are purely directed at business types! To learn more about these unusual offerings, see the summaries of Duke’s Online MEM – Data Analytics & Machine Learning and Villanova’s Online Professional MBA – Applied AI & Machine Learning. These are non-technical degrees that address how ML and AI can affect business decisions. In the case of Villanova, the courses even use a low code/no code modeling platform. These programs would be terrible choices for an ML Engineer, but they may be perfect for a Business Analyst.
On top of all this (!), you’ll find that each online ML master’s degree will have one or two unique selling points. For instance, NYU’s Online MS in Emerging Technologies – ML & AI may be a fabulous choice for anyone interested in diving into the intricacies of urban ML applications. Use our profiles to get a feel for the degree’s “personality.”
How to Find the Best Master’s in Machine Learning For You
Once you’ve landed on the right type of online master’s degree in machine learning in our rankings and sifted out the rest, you can start to compare degrees side-by-side. Here are some points to consider when you’re seeking to find the very best qualification for a fulfilling career in machine learning:
ML Major or Specialization: Do you want to do a standalone degree like SIT’s Online MS in Machine Learning or an ML specialization within another major like Columbia’s Online MSCS – Machine Learning? SIT’s program is completely devoted to ML, but Columbia’s MSCS may be right for someone who’s out to impress employers with an Ivy League degree in computer science.
Customization: Another variable is the number of allowed electives in the curriculum. Programs like GW’s Online MEng in AI & ML keep things simple with fixed plans of study. But online degrees from schools like Georgia Tech, NYU, Columbia, and Drexel have oodles of electives in advanced computing & machine learning topics. One note of caution—some electives will be limited to on-campus students. So check with the program coordinator once you have a course list in mind.
Cost of Attendance: We’ve included a tuition link in each profile so you can navigate quickly to cost. We’ve also flagged budget-friendly options in our “Strong Pick For” section. Georgia Tech is known for being the cheapest, but programs like CSU’s Online MS in AI & ML and Purdue’s Online MSAI – AI & ML cost between $20-$30k. In contrast, machine learning graduate degrees from Duke, Columbia, NYU, and USC will cost in excess of $70k without aid. Tuition reimbursement from your employer can help, but it’s critical to stay objective when assessing what you can afford.
Reputation: Is it necessary for your ML career goals to attend a costly prestigious university or is a well-ranked, reasonably-priced accredited school enough? When it comes to this question, we recommend leveraging the university’s assets to your advantage. That’s why we’ve included a short summary of each school’s research strengths in machine learning, as well as links to faculty and labs. Even a second-tier school can turn out to be a great pick IF you’re able to work on relevant machine learning projects with the right industry partners.
Time to Finish: And then there’s the practical question of time. Are you able to commit to 3-4 courses and finish within a year? Or will you need to stretch things out to 1-2 courses per semester and finish in 2-3 years while you’re working? Since each program is unique, we’ve given you ballpark estimates in each profile to help you make a decision. Some degrees will also provide sample plans of study for part-time & full-time students. If you don’t see one on the website, ask the program coordinator for a calendar.
Online vs. On-Campus Master’s Degrees: How to Decide
If you’ve only considered 100% online programs up to this point, then you may want to think twice. You’ll significantly expand your options if you’re willing to include hybrid and on-campus programs in the equation. Our guide to Master’s in Machine Learning Programs has a comprehensive state-by-state directory of these degrees. Here are a few factors that may sway your decision in one direction or the other:
In-State vs. Out-of-State: Is there a public university that’s within your commuting range? If so, they may be able to offer you a highly affordable, in-state tuition rate on a hybrid or on-campus master’s degree in AI, data science or machine learning. Alternatively, are you willing to relocate for a year or so to earn an on-campus degree from a big-name school? If the answer to both of these questions is “no,” then online may be the best option.
100% Online vs. Hybrid: 100% online master’s degrees in ML are the ultimate in flexibility. A number of them are completely asynchronous, which means you can watch lectures and complete assignments on your own time. If they include synchronous, real-time elements like class meetings and online lectures, they will schedule these in the evening or on the weekends. On the other hand, a hybrid degree will offer opportunities to access the university’s computing resources, collaborate with faculty & students on research projects, and network with industry partners and high-flying experts at departmental events.
Full-Time vs. Part-Time: Can you afford to take off enough time to attend full-time, or do you need the flexibility of a part-time online program? Most online offerings are made with working students in mind, whereas full-time, on-campus programs expect education to be your primary focus. Full-time attendance allows you to finish faster, helping you land a promotion or better-paying job months or even years sooner.
Learning Efficacy: How do you feel about being self-directed? Is any machine learning subject matter learned better in person? Will online options use simulations or practical approaches to match the hands-on learning experiences of in-person courses? Chat with program coordinators, faculty, and ML alumni to get a feel for what you can expect. Some graduate students love being left alone and others really crave collaboration.
Machine Learning FAQ
Is an Online Master’s in Machine Learning Worth It?
Maybe. The tech market is already heaving with PhD and MS graduates and automation isn’t making things easier. Employers have grown increasingly wary of the AI/ML degree mill, so you may also be fighting against perception.
Earning an online master’s degree from a big-name school like NYU can help, but what’s probably going to tip the balance in your favor is real-world experience. That’s why we advise you to start thinking about your master’s capstone, internship electives, and potential industry collaborations before you even apply.
Look up the bios of the department’s Advisory Board. Find out which machine learning & AI labs are currently working on projects with government labs & major companies. Talk to the program coordinator about how you can partner with these folks. Your goal is to squeeze as much practical experience (and networking) into your plan of study as possible.
I’m Not Finding the Right Online Master’s in ML Degree. Do I Have Other Options?
Absolutely. If you can’t find what you’re looking for in our online machine learning listings, artificial intelligence and/or data science rankings, you could always consider customizing an online master’s in computer science (MSCS) or applied statistics with machine learning electives. The latter is a strong alternative for data scientists who need ML skills.
Will Online Coursework in Machine Learning Go Deep Enough?
It depends on how deep you want to go. If you read Reddit threads on all of these programs, you’ll see a huge amount of debate about which online courses are outdated and a waste of space and which ones are challenging and cutting-edge. Keep in mind, too, that some online master’s programs in ML are designed to be “foundational” rather than technically advanced.
You’re unlikely to get superb ML courses across the board—some professors just won’t care. So look for core courses & electives that are taught by passionate faculty members who are really putting in the effort. That’s why we suggest assembling a proposed plan of study, complete with ML electives, and then reaching out to recent alumni to see if any courses should be ditched.
Will Employers Want to See an On-Campus Master’s Degree in Machine Learning?
It depends on the employer and the job. The word “online” won’t be listed on your diploma, so hiring committees aren’t going to recoil in horror when they see your résumé. Having said that, they may be more likely to favor a candidate who’s been on the ground at a university, working closely with well-known faculty in a machine learning lab or institute.
In general, we recommend on-campus degrees in ML for anyone who’s eyeing roles in high-level research and academia. You’ll have plenty of opportunities to apply for teaching & research assistantships. You may even qualify for funding that covers the cost of your degree.
Online degrees in ML will be especially useful to folks who are already employed or seeking to negotiate themselves into a specific role. It pays to do a lot of forward planning here. Talk to employers about your plans, present them with your shortlist, and discuss how you’ll be applying coursework to your job.
Schools Offering Online Master’s in Machine Learning Programs
California
San Jose State University
College of Graduate Studies
San Jose, California
MS in Statistics - Machine Learning
Offered Online
Colorado
Colorado State University Global
Graduate Department
Aurora, Colorado
Georgia
Columbus State University
School of Computer Science
Columbus, Georgia
Georgia Institute of Technology
College of Computing
Atlanta, Georgia
Georgia Southern University
College of Engineering and Computing
Statesboro, Georgia
Illinois
University of Illinois at Chicago
College of Engineering
Chicago, Illinois
Massachusetts
Wentworth Institute of Technology
School of Computing & Data Science
Boston, Massachusetts
New Jersey
Stevens Institute of Technology
Department of Computer Science
Hoboken, New Jersey
Master of Science in Machine Learning
Offered Online
New York
Columbia University in the City of New York
Computer Science Department
New York, New York
North Carolina
Duke University
School of Engineering
Durham, North Carolina
Pennsylvania
Drexel University
College of Computing & Informatics
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Villanova University
School of Business
Villanova, Pennsylvania
Texas
Rice University
Department of Computer Science
Houston, Texas
Southern Methodist University
DataScience@SMU
Dallas, Texas
Wisconsin
University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee
College of Engineering & Applied Science
Milwaukee, Wisconsin
