AI and machine learning students collaborating in modern university lab with neural network visualizations
Updated December 2025

Best Artificial Intelligence Degree Programs

Compare the best artificial intelligence degree programs in the U.S. Rankings of 340+ accredited programs across bachelor's, master's, and online options. $130,000 median salary with +23% projected job growth.

Accredited Programs340+
Median Salary$130,000
Job Growth+23%
Annual Openings17,000+
Key Takeaways
  • 1.Hakia ranks the best artificial intelligence degree programs in 2026 — artificial intelligence professionals earn a median salary of $136,620/year, with 25% job growth projected through 2032—much faster than average.
  • 2.Our top-ranked artificial intelligence programs are Carnegie Mellon University, University of Washington-Seattle Campus, and University of Southern California—selected based on graduation rates, program size, and career outcomes.
  • 3.Best value: University of Central Florida offers artificial intelligence degrees at just $4,478/year with a 93% graduation rate.
  • 4.46 accredited artificial intelligence programs available nationwide, with options at every degree level from associate's to doctoral.
  • 5.Entry-level positions typically require a bachelor's degree; master's degrees unlock senior roles with 20-40% higher salaries and leadership opportunities.
Yes, for most students
Quick Answer: Is an AI Degree Worth It?

Source: BLS OEWS 2024, industry analysis

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Best Artificial Intelligence Programs - Top 10

These are the best artificial intelligence (AI) programs in the United States based on our comprehensive methodology that considers graduation rates, program size, institutional reputation, and career outcomes. Rankings are updated annually using data from IPEDS and BLS.

Best Artificial Intelligence Programs - Top 10

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Carnegie Mellon University

Pittsburgh, PAPrivateCAE-CD

Doctoral: Very High Research (R1)

CMU created the world's first bachelor's degree in artificial intelligence in 2018 and has led AI education and innovation since the field's inception, with the university being the birthplace of cognitive psychology and home to the first U.S. university robotics institute founded in 1979.

Programs:Bachelor of Science in Artific...Master of Science in Artificia...+2 more
100.0
Score
$62K
Tuition/yr
98%
Grad Rate
100.0
Score
Visit
Program

Carnegie Mellon University Artificial Intelligence Program Overview

Hakia ranks Carnegie Mellon University as the #1 in artificial intelligence degree program.

Carnegie Mellon University's Artificial Intelligence program graduates 178 students annually with a 98% graduation rate. Research opportunities include the Computer Science Department and Human-Computer Interaction Institute. Pittsburgh emerging as AI innovation hub through NVIDIA AI Tech Community partnership Graduates find positions at Government agencies, Consulting firms, Technology companies.

Hakia Insight: Carnegie Mellon University leverages partnerships with NVIDIA and University of Pittsburgh to offer students real-world project experience valued by employers.

Degree Programs

Bachelor of Science in Artificial Intelligence
4 yearson-campus
Part-time: Not specified
Master of Science in Artificial Intelligence and Innovation (MSAII)
2 years (4 semesters)on-campus
Part-time: Not available
Additional Major in Artificial Intelligence
Concurrent with primary majoron-campus
Part-time: Based on primary major
Minor in Artificial Intelligence
Concurrent with primary majoron-campus
Part-time: Based on primary major

Research Labs & Institutes

Computer Science Department

computer science

Human-Computer Interaction Institute

human-computer interaction

Language Technologies Institute

natural language processing

Machine Learning Department

machine learning

Robotics Institute

robotics

Software and Societal Systems Department

software and societal systems

Location Advantages

  • Pittsburgh emerging as AI innovation hub through NVIDIA AI Tech Community partnership
  • Close collaboration between CMU, University of Pittsburgh, and industry partners
  • Access to local startups and established tech companies in Pittsburgh corridor
  • Strong connections to government agencies and policy makers in Washington D.C.

Industry Partners

NVIDIAUniversity of PittsburghWhite House Office of Science and Technology PolicyNational Science FoundationCDC

Career Outcomes

Not specified placement rate
Top Employers:

Government agencies, Consulting firms, Technology companies, Startups, Research institutions

Common Roles:
AI EngineerMachine Learning EngineerResearch ScientistProduct Manager

Certifications & Designations

Not specified

Admissions

GPA: 3.0 minimum for MSAII
Acceptance: Not specified
Cohort Size: Not specified
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University of Washington-Seattle Campus

Seattle, WAPublicCAE-CD

Doctoral: Very High Research (R1)

UW's AI program uniquely focuses on applying artificial intelligence to engineering problems with physical constraints, featuring a stackable certificate structure that allows working engineers to customize their education while maintaining their careers.

Programs:MS in Artificial Intelligence ...
85.5
Score
$12K
Tuition/yr
97%
Grad Rate
85.5
Score
Visit
Program

University of Washington-Seattle Campus Artificial Intelligence Program Overview

Hakia ranks University of Washington-Seattle Campus as the #2 in artificial intelligence degree program.

University of Washington-Seattle Campus's Artificial Intelligence program graduates 48 students annually with a 97% graduation rate. Research opportunities include the AI Center for Dynamics & Control and SMARTS Lab (Scale-independent Multimodal Automated Real Time Systems). Seattle tech hub with proximity to Amazon, Microsoft, and Boeing

Hakia Insight: Students at University of Washington-Seattle Campus benefit from active collaborations with Boeing and Amazon, connecting classroom learning to the workforce.

Degree Programs

MS in Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning for Engineering
2-4 yearsonline or hybrid
Part-time: Available - designed for working engineers

Research Labs & Institutes

AI Center for Dynamics & Control

Data-driven discovery and control of complex dynamical systems

SMARTS Lab (Scale-independent Multimodal Automated Real Time Systems)

Automated decision-making for cyber-physical systems

H2 Lab

Foundational AI and Natural Language Processing for general-purpose AI algorithms

UW Reality Lab

Virtual and augmented reality technologies and applications

Location Advantages

  • Seattle tech hub with proximity to Amazon, Microsoft, and Boeing
  • Strong aerospace and manufacturing industry presence
  • Access to Paul G. Allen School of Computer Science & Engineering

Industry Partners

BoeingAmazonNVIDIA

Career Outcomes

Certifications & Designations

ABET

Admissions

GPA: 3.0 minimum cumulative GPA
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University of Southern California

Los Angeles, CAPrivateCAE-CD

Doctoral: Very High Research (R1)

USC created one of the first dedicated Master's in AI programs in the nation and pioneered the innovative joint AI for Business undergraduate degree, positioning students at the intersection of technical expertise and business acumen in Los Angeles' thriving tech ecosystem.

Programs:BSMS+5 more
80.0
Score
$67K
Tuition/yr
92%
Grad Rate
80.0
Score
Visit
Program

University of Southern California Artificial Intelligence Program Overview

Hakia ranks University of Southern California as the #3 in artificial intelligence degree program.

University of Southern California's Artificial Intelligence program graduates 45 students annually with a 92% graduation rate. Research opportunities include the Affective Computing Group and Automatic Coordination of Teams (ACT) Lab. Los Angeles tech ecosystem access Graduates find positions at Amazon Web Services, Google, Microsoft.

Hakia Insight: Students at University of Southern California benefit from active collaborations with Amazon and Google, connecting classroom learning to the workforce.

Degree Programs

BS
4 yearson-campus
MS
on-campus
B.S. Program
on-campus
M.S. Program
on-campus
Ph.D. Program
on-campus
Data Science Program
on-campus
Graduate Certificate
on-campus

Research Labs & Institutes

Affective Computing Group

Emotional AI and human-computer interaction

Automatic Coordination of Teams (ACT) Lab

Multi-agent coordination and teamwork

Center for Autonomy and AI

Autonomous systems and artificial intelligence

Center on Knowledge Graphs

Knowledge representation and graph-based reasoning

Cognitive Architecture

Cognitive modeling and architecture design

Cognitive Learning for Vision and Robotics Lab

Visual learning and robotic cognition

Collaboratory for Algorithmic Techniques and Artifical Intelligence (CATAI)

Algorithmic techniques and AI methods

Computational Social Science Laboratory

Social media analysis and computational social science

Data, Interpretability, Language and Learning (DILL) Lab

Interpretable AI and natural language processing

Intelligence and Knowledge Discovery (INK) Research Lab

Knowledge discovery and information extraction

Interactive and Collaborative Autonomous Robotic Systems (ICAROS) Lab

Human-robot interaction and collaborative robotics

Interaction Lab

Socially assistive robotics and human-robot interaction

Machine Learning and Data Mining Lab (Melady)

Machine learning algorithms and data mining

Natural Language Dialogue Group

Conversational AI and dialogue systems

USC Center for Artificial Intelligence in Society

AI applications for social good

AI Research Center of Excellence for Education (AIRCOEE)

AI applications in education and training

Location Advantages

  • Los Angeles tech ecosystem access
  • Proximity to entertainment industry AI applications
  • Strong startup and venture capital presence
  • Access to aerospace and defense contractors

Industry Partners

AmazonGoogleUberMicrosoft

Career Outcomes

Top Employers:

Amazon Web Services, Google, Microsoft, Uber, TikTok

Common Roles:
Software Development EngineerMachine Learning EngineerData ScientistAI Scientist

Certifications & Designations

OPT STEM extension eligible for international students

Admissions

#4

University of Pennsylvania

Philadelphia, PAPrivate

Doctoral: Very High Research (R1)

Penn's AI program is distinguished by its unique emphasis on ethical AI training alongside technical excellence, housed within an Ivy League institution that pioneered breakthrough research like the first programmable chip for training neural networks using light and AI systems that discovered new antibiotics in ancient microbes.

Programs:Master of Science in Engineeri...Bachelor of Science in Enginee...
79.1
Score
$59K
Tuition/yr
100%
Grad Rate
79.1
Score
Visit
Program
#5

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Cambridge, MAPrivateCAE-CD

Doctoral: Very High Research (R1)

MIT houses CSAIL, the world's largest university computer science laboratory, born from the merger of the original AI Lab where foundational AI research began in the 1960s under Marvin Minsky and John McCarthy, creators of the field of artificial intelligence itself.

Programs:Master of Engineering (MEng) i...Master of Science (SM) in Comp...+1 more
72.7
Score
$60K
Tuition/yr
72.7
Score
Visit
Program
#6

Northwestern University

Evanston, ILPrivate

Doctoral: Very High Research (R1)

Northwestern pioneered the integration of AI with business leadership through the MBAi program and maintains one of the most comprehensive AI education ecosystems in higher education, spanning from undergraduate minors to executive education, with specialized research centers collaborating directly with Underwriters Laboratories and Argonne National Laboratory.

Programs:Master of Science in Artificia...MBAi Program+4 more
71.0
Score
$65K
Tuition/yr
90%
Grad Rate
71.0
Score
Visit
Program
#7

Northeastern University

Boston, MAPrivateCAE-CD

Doctoral: Very High Research (R1)

Northeastern's AI program uniquely combines the nation's #1-ranked co-op system with the Institute for Experiential AI, positioning it as an institutional leader in human-centric and responsible AI development while offering the only interdisciplinary program that spans both computer science and engineering applications.

Programs:MS in Artificial IntelligenceMS in Artificial Intelligence ...
69.5
Score
$62K
Tuition/yr
69.5
Score
Visit
Program
#8

University of San Diego

San Diego, CAPrivate

Doctoral: High Research (R2)

USD's MS-AAI program is recognized as one of the nation's only 100% online master's in artificial intelligence programs, uniquely integrating ethics, social good, and moral responsibility across the entire curriculum while maintaining a balance between technical skills and practical business applications.

Programs:MS in Applied Artificial Intel...
68.4
Score
$56K
Tuition/yr
97%
Grad Rate
68.4
Score
Visit
Program
#9

Brandeis University

Waltham, MAPrivate

Doctoral: Very High Research (R1)

Brandeis combines small program sizes that ensure individualized faculty mentoring with proximity to Boston's tech corridor, while offering unique interdisciplinary opportunities like computational linguistics and emerging research in AI bias and cybersecurity policy through specialized institutes.

Programs:Bachelor of Arts in Computer S...Bachelor of Science in Compute...+6 more
67.8
Score
$64K
Tuition/yr
99%
Grad Rate
67.8
Score
Visit
Program
#10

University of North Texas

Denton, TXPublic

Doctoral: Very High Research (R1)

UNT offers Texas's only standalone Master of Science in Artificial Intelligence degree, combining cutting-edge research at the 300-acre Discovery Park facility with the career advantages of being located in the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex's massive tech corridor.

Programs:MS in Artificial IntelligenceCombined BS/MS Computer Scienc...+1 more
65.0
Score
$8K
Tuition/yr
70%
Grad Rate
65.0
Score
Visit
Program

Best Artificial Intelligence Programs - Top 10 — Complete Program Data

  1. #1. Carnegie Mellon University Artificial Intelligence Program

    Hakia ranks Carnegie Mellon University as the #1 in artificial intelligence degree program. Location: Pittsburgh, PA | Type: Private | Tuition: $62,260/year | Graduation Rate: 98% | Score: 100.0

    What makes Carnegie Mellon University stand out: CMU created the world's first bachelor's degree in artificial intelligence in 2018 and has led AI education and innovation since the field's inception, with the university being the birthplace of cognitive psychology and home to the first U.S. university robotics institute founded in 1979.

    Hakia Insight: Carnegie Mellon University leverages partnerships with NVIDIA and University of Pittsburgh to offer students real-world project experience valued by employers.

    Program Overview: Carnegie Mellon University pioneered artificial intelligence education, creating the world's first Bachelor of Science in Artificial Intelligence in 2018 and establishing the nation's first computer science college in 1988. The university offers comprehensive AI education through multiple pathways: the groundbreaking undergraduate BSAI program housed in the School of Computer Science, and the innovative Master of Science in Artificial Intelligence and Innovation (MSAII) through the Language Technologies Institute. The MSAII program uniquely combines rigorous AI and machine learning curriculum with real-world entrepreneurship experience, requiring students to develop actual AI products through a four-semester journey culminating in a capstone project suitable for startup investment or corporate integration. Instruction spans six departments within the School of Computer Science - the Computer Science Department, Human-Computer Interaction Institute, Language Technologies Institute, Machine Learning Department, Robotics Institute, and Software and Societal Systems Department. CMU's AI research tackles real-world challenges through initiatives like the Delphi Research Group (selected by the CDC as the Center for Innovation in Outbreak Analytics), the AI Institute for Societal Decision Making, and partnerships with NVIDIA for robotics and autonomy research. The university emphasizes AI for social good, with mandatory ethics coursework and applications spanning healthcare, transportation, education, and epidemic forecasting.

    Degree Programs: Bachelor of Science in Artificial Intelligence (4 years); Master of Science in Artificial Intelligence and Innovation (MSAII) (2 years (4 semesters)); Additional Major in Artificial Intelligence (Concurrent with primary major); Minor in Artificial Intelligence (Concurrent with primary major)

    Research Labs: Computer Science Department - computer science; Human-Computer Interaction Institute - human-computer interaction; Language Technologies Institute - natural language processing; Machine Learning Department - machine learning; Robotics Institute - robotics; Software and Societal Systems Department - software and societal systems

    Industry Partners: NVIDIA, University of Pittsburgh, White House Office of Science and Technology Policy, National Science Foundation, CDC

    Career Outcomes: Placement Rate: Not specified | Top Employers: Government agencies, Consulting firms, Technology companies, Startups, Research institutions | Common Roles: AI Engineer, Machine Learning Engineer, Research Scientist, Product Manager, Entrepreneur, Policy Analyst

    Notable Faculty: Reid Simmons (Director of BSAI program); Aarti Singh (Machine learning, statistics, and signal processing)

    Admissions: GPA: 3.0 minimum for MSAII | Acceptance Rate: Not specified

    Accreditations: Not specified

  2. #2. University of Washington-Seattle Campus Artificial Intelligence Program

    Hakia ranks University of Washington-Seattle Campus as the #2 in artificial intelligence degree program. Location: Seattle, WA | Type: Public | Tuition: $11,524/year | Graduation Rate: 97% | Score: 85.5

    What makes University of Washington-Seattle Campus stand out: UW's AI program uniquely focuses on applying artificial intelligence to engineering problems with physical constraints, featuring a stackable certificate structure that allows working engineers to customize their education while maintaining their careers.

    Hakia Insight: Students at University of Washington-Seattle Campus benefit from active collaborations with Boeing and Amazon, connecting classroom learning to the workforce.

    Program Overview: The University of Washington-Seattle Campus offers a distinctive Master of Science in Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning for Engineering through its College of Engineering, launching Fall 2026 with applications opening January 2026. This innovative program is specifically designed for working engineers who want to apply AI and ML methods to physical engineering problems like manufacturing, chemical processes, and robotics. The program features a unique stackable structure where students complete two graduate certificates plus an applied capstone project to earn their master's degree. Students begin with the required Graduate Certificate in AI & ML for Engineering, then choose from domain-specific certificates in areas like Data-Driven Dynamic Systems & Control, Modern AI Methods from the prestigious Paul G. Allen School, or Human Centered Artificial Intelligence. The program can be completed entirely online part-time or through a full-time option, making it exceptionally flexible for working professionals. The curriculum is bolstered by renowned faculty like Professor Steve Brunton, who directs the AI Center for Dynamics & Control and serves as a Data Science Fellow at the eScience Institute, and Professor Ashis Banerjee, who leads the SMARTS Lab and serves on the UW Amazon Science Hub advisory board.

    Degree Programs: MS in Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning for Engineering (2-4 years)

    Research Labs: AI Center for Dynamics & Control - Data-driven discovery and control of complex dynamical systems; SMARTS Lab (Scale-independent Multimodal Automated Real Time Systems) - Automated decision-making for cyber-physical systems; H2 Lab - Foundational AI and Natural Language Processing for general-purpose AI algorithms; UW Reality Lab - Virtual and augmented reality technologies and applications

    Industry Partners: Boeing, Amazon, NVIDIA

    Career Outcomes:

    Notable Faculty: Steve Brunton (dimensionality reduction, sparse sensing, machine learning for data-driven discovery and control of complex dynamical systems); Ashis Banerjee (automated decision-making for cyber-physical systems, optimization, machine learning, autonomous robotics); Taylor Kessler Faulkner (AI, human-robot interaction, assistive robotics); Natasha Jaques; Hannaneh Hajishirzi

    Admissions: GPA: 3.0 minimum cumulative GPA

    Accreditations: ABET

  3. #3. University of Southern California Artificial Intelligence Program

    Hakia ranks University of Southern California as the #3 in artificial intelligence degree program. Location: Los Angeles, CA | Type: Private | Tuition: $66,640/year | Graduation Rate: 92% | Score: 80.0

    What makes University of Southern California stand out: USC created one of the first dedicated Master's in AI programs in the nation and pioneered the innovative joint AI for Business undergraduate degree, positioning students at the intersection of technical expertise and business acumen in Los Angeles' thriving tech ecosystem.

    Hakia Insight: Students at University of Southern California benefit from active collaborations with Amazon and Google, connecting classroom learning to the workforce.

    Program Overview: The University of Southern California stands as a national pioneer in artificial intelligence education, offering one of the first dedicated Master of Science in Computer Science (Artificial Intelligence) programs in the United States. This 32-unit program, housed within the prestigious Viterbi School of Engineering, provides rigorous training in deep learning theories and applications, covering machine learning, statistics, computer vision, natural language processing, and robotics. USC has gone beyond traditional offerings by creating innovative partnerships, including the groundbreaking joint BS in Artificial Intelligence for Business with the Marshall School of Business, demonstrating the university's commitment to interdisciplinary AI education. The program benefits from USC's robust research ecosystem, anchored by the Center for Artificial Intelligence in Society (CAIS), which focuses on AI for social good across environment, health and wellbeing, and homelessness initiatives. Students gain access to over 30 specialized research labs spanning artificial intelligence, machine learning, computer vision, robotics, and human-computer interaction. The curriculum balances theoretical foundations with practical applications, requiring core courses in algorithms, AI foundations, deep learning, machine learning, and web technologies, complemented by specialized electives in areas like multimodal learning, knowledge graphs, and AI ethics.

    Degree Programs: BS (4 years); MS; B.S. Program; M.S. Program; Ph.D. Program; Data Science Program; Graduate Certificate

    Research Labs: Affective Computing Group - Emotional AI and human-computer interaction; Automatic Coordination of Teams (ACT) Lab - Multi-agent coordination and teamwork; Center for Autonomy and AI - Autonomous systems and artificial intelligence; Center on Knowledge Graphs - Knowledge representation and graph-based reasoning; Cognitive Architecture - Cognitive modeling and architecture design; Cognitive Learning for Vision and Robotics Lab - Visual learning and robotic cognition; Collaboratory for Algorithmic Techniques and Artifical Intelligence (CATAI) - Algorithmic techniques and AI methods; Computational Social Science Laboratory - Social media analysis and computational social science; Data, Interpretability, Language and Learning (DILL) Lab - Interpretable AI and natural language processing; Intelligence and Knowledge Discovery (INK) Research Lab - Knowledge discovery and information extraction; Interactive and Collaborative Autonomous Robotic Systems (ICAROS) Lab - Human-robot interaction and collaborative robotics; Interaction Lab - Socially assistive robotics and human-robot interaction; Machine Learning and Data Mining Lab (Melady) - Machine learning algorithms and data mining; Natural Language Dialogue Group - Conversational AI and dialogue systems; USC Center for Artificial Intelligence in Society - AI applications for social good; AI Research Center of Excellence for Education (AIRCOEE) - AI applications in education and training

    Industry Partners: Amazon, Google, Uber, Microsoft

    Career Outcomes: | Top Employers: Amazon Web Services, Google, Microsoft, Uber, TikTok, Lucid Motors, Northern Lights, SAIC | Common Roles: Software Development Engineer, Machine Learning Engineer, Data Scientist, AI Scientist, Deep Learning Research Engineer

    Notable Faculty: Maja Matarić (Socially assistive robotics and human-robot interaction); Gaurav Sukhatme (Robotics and autonomous systems); Yolanda Gil (Artificial intelligence and knowledge systems); Jonathan Gratch (Virtual humans and computational psychology); Craig Knoblock (Information integration and knowledge graphs); David Kempe (Algorithms and machine learning theory); Laurent Itti (Computer vision and computational neuroscience); Bistra Dilkina (AI for social good and computational sustainability); Bill Swartout (AI systems and virtual humans)

    Admissions:

    Accreditations: OPT STEM extension eligible for international students

  4. #4. University of Pennsylvania Artificial Intelligence Program

    Hakia ranks University of Pennsylvania as the #4 in artificial intelligence degree program. Location: Philadelphia, PA | Type: Private | Tuition: $58,620/year | Graduation Rate: 100% | Score: 79.1

    What makes University of Pennsylvania stand out: Penn's AI program is distinguished by its unique emphasis on ethical AI training alongside technical excellence, housed within an Ivy League institution that pioneered breakthrough research like the first programmable chip for training neural networks using light and AI systems that discovered new antibiotics in ancient microbes.

    Hakia Insight: University of Pennsylvania's industry network — including Amazon Web Services and Google — provides students with internship and hiring pathways.

    Program Overview: The University of Pennsylvania's Artificial Intelligence program operates through the prestigious Raj and Neera Singh Program in Artificial Intelligence, representing one of the most comprehensive AI education initiatives in the Ivy League. Penn offers both undergraduate (B.S.E.) and graduate (M.S.E.) pathways, with the graduate program available entirely online for working professionals. The program uniquely blends technical rigor in machine learning, natural language processing, and deep learning with robust ethical training, preparing students to navigate AI's societal implications. What sets Penn apart is its integration across multiple world-class research centers including the ASSET Center for trustworthy AI, the Warren Center for Network and Data Sciences, and the IDEAS Center, creating an ecosystem where students work alongside faculty who are shaping the future of AI across industries from healthcare to finance.

    Degree Programs: Master of Science in Engineering in AI (MSE-AI) Online (Variable); Bachelor of Science in Engineering in AI (B.S.E.) (4 years)

    Research Labs: ASSET Center - AI-Enabled Systems: Safe, Explainable and Trustworthy; Warren Center for Network & Data Sciences - Network and data science research applications; IDEAS Center - Innovation in Data Engineering and Science; PRECISE Center - Penn Research In Embedded Computing and Integrated Systems Engineering; GRASP Lab - General Robotics, Automation, Sensing and Perception

    Industry Partners: Amazon Web Services, Google

    Career Outcomes: | Top Employers: Technology companies, Financial services, Healthcare organizations, Government agencies | Common Roles: AI Research Scientist, Machine Learning Engineer, AI Product Manager, Startup Founder

    Notable Faculty: George J. Pappas (UPS Foundation Professor of Transportation in Electrical and Systems Engineering); Chris Callison-Burch (Professor in Computer and Information Science); Rajeev Alur (Zisman Family Professor in Computer and Information Science); Michael Kearns (National Center Professor of Management & Technology); René Vidal (Rachleff University Professor in Electrical and Systems Engineering); Paris Perdikaris (Associate Professor)

    Admissions:

  5. #5. Massachusetts Institute of Technology Artificial Intelligence Program

    Hakia ranks Massachusetts Institute of Technology as the #5 in artificial intelligence degree program. Location: Cambridge, MA | Type: Private | Tuition: $59,750/year | Score: 72.7

    What makes Massachusetts Institute of Technology stand out: MIT houses CSAIL, the world's largest university computer science laboratory, born from the merger of the original AI Lab where foundational AI research began in the 1960s under Marvin Minsky and John McCarthy, creators of the field of artificial intelligence itself.

    Hakia Insight: Massachusetts Institute of Technology's industry network — including Shell and United Engineers and Constructors — provides students with internship and hiring pathways.

    Program Overview: MIT doesn't offer a traditional standalone master's degree in Artificial Intelligence, but instead integrates AI education across multiple programs within its renowned Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence Laboratory (CSAIL). Students can pursue AI through the Master of Engineering (MEng) in Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, or the broader SM (Scientiae Magister) in Computer Science. The undergraduate program offers Course 6-4: Artificial Intelligence and Decision Making as a specialized track. CSAIL, formed in 2003 from the merger of the historic AI Lab (founded 1970) and Laboratory for Computer Science, represents the largest on-campus laboratory at MIT and houses cutting-edge research in machine learning, robotics, and computational intelligence. The program benefits from MIT's legendary AI heritage, including pioneering work by Marvin Minsky and the development of Lisp programming language.

    Degree Programs: Master of Engineering (MEng) in Electrical Engineering and Computer Science (1 year minimum); Master of Science (SM) in Computer Science (1-2 years); Artificial Intelligence and Decision Making (Course 6-4) (4 years)

    Research Labs: Laboratory for Infrastructure Science and Sustainability - Infrastructure sensing and vision-based monitoring through data analytics and AI in engineering mechanics; Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence Laboratory (CSAIL) - Computer science and artificial intelligence research; Stanford Immigration Policy Lab - Immigration policy research using statistical methods and causal inference

    Industry Partners: Shell, United Engineers and Constructors, Marc Analysis and Research Corporation

    Career Outcomes: | Top Employers: Google, Apple, Meta, Amazon, Microsoft, leading AI startups | Common Roles: AI Research Scientist, Machine Learning Engineer, Robotics Engineer, AI Product Manager

    Notable Faculty: Dr. Oral Buyukozturk (AI in engineering mechanics, infrastructure sensing and vision-based monitoring); Dr. William T. Freeman (Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence); Dr. Fredo Durand (Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence)

    Admissions:

  6. #6. Northwestern University Artificial Intelligence Program

    Hakia ranks Northwestern University as the #6 in artificial intelligence degree program. Location: Evanston, IL | Type: Private | Tuition: $64,887/year | Graduation Rate: 90% | Score: 71.0

    What makes Northwestern University stand out: Northwestern pioneered the integration of AI with business leadership through the MBAi program and maintains one of the most comprehensive AI education ecosystems in higher education, spanning from undergraduate minors to executive education, with specialized research centers collaborating directly with Underwriters Laboratories and Argonne National Laboratory.

    Hakia Insight: Students at Northwestern University benefit from active collaborations with Flexcompute and Sony PlayStation, connecting classroom learning to the workforce.

    Program Overview: Northwestern University offers a comprehensive AI education ecosystem spanning undergraduate through executive levels across multiple schools. The flagship Master of Science in Artificial Intelligence, housed in the McCormick School of Engineering, is a professionally-focused 15-month program that caps enrollment at just 45 students annually to ensure personalized attention. The program emphasizes practical application with industry capstone projects and partnerships with engineering's MS AI students. Northwestern's AI offerings extend far beyond this core program, including the innovative MBAi joint degree between Kellogg Business School and McCormick Engineering, specialized AI tracks in data science and information systems through the School of Professional Studies, and extensive undergraduate options like AI minors and data science majors. The university's approach integrates technical depth with real-world application, supported by over 15 specialized research centers including the Center for Advancing Safety of Machine Intelligence (CASMI), the Center for Deep Learning, and the Institute for Artificial Intelligence in Medicine.

    Degree Programs: Master of Science in Artificial Intelligence (15 months); MBAi Program (20 months (5 quarters)); MS in Data Science with AI Specialization (varies); MS in Information Systems with AI Specialization (varies); PhD in Computer Science (4-6 years); Advanced Graduate Certificate in Artificial Intelligence (varies)

    Research Labs: Center for Advancing Safety of Machine Intelligence (CASMI) - Safety in machine intelligence systems in collaboration with Underwriters Laboratories Inc.; Center for Deep Learning (CDL) - Industry partnerships for AI proof of concept and deployment; Institute for Artificial Intelligence in Medicine (I.AIM) - Six-center institute bridging computational methods with medical expertise; Artificial Intelligence Group - Machine learning, cognitive modeling, language understanding, robotics, computational journalism; Machine Learning and Language (MLL) Lab - Intelligent language models that reason, plan, and interact with the physical world; Center for Optimization and Statistical Learning (OSL) - AI systems creation through optimization and statistical learning methods

    Industry Partners: Flexcompute, Sony PlayStation, Deloitte, McDonald's, Annalect, Mayo Clinic, Amazon Web Services, Bain Capital Ventures, TikTok

    Career Outcomes: | Top Employers: Adobe Systems, Amazon, Apple Inc., The Boston Consulting Group, Google, Meta, McKinsey & Company | Common Roles: Senior Product Manager, Technical Product Manager, Senior Consultant, Director of Technical Operations

    Notable Faculty: Kristian Hammond (Natural language processing, cognitive modeling, computational journalism); Bryan Pardo (Machine learning for audio, signal processing); Brenna Argall (Assistive and rehabilitation robotics)

    Admissions:

  7. #7. Northeastern University Artificial Intelligence Program

    Hakia ranks Northeastern University as the #7 in artificial intelligence degree program. Location: Boston, MA | Type: Private | Tuition: $62,000/year | Score: 69.5

    What makes Northeastern University stand out: Northeastern's AI program uniquely combines the nation's #1-ranked co-op system with the Institute for Experiential AI, positioning it as an institutional leader in human-centric and responsible AI development while offering the only interdisciplinary program that spans both computer science and engineering applications.

    Hakia Insight: Northeastern University's industry network — including Amazon and Ford — provides students with internship and hiring pathways.

    Program Overview: Northeastern University's MS in Artificial Intelligence stands as one of the most comprehensive interdisciplinary AI programs in the nation, jointly offered by the prestigious Khoury College of Computer Sciences and the College of Engineering. This dynamic 32-credit program spans 2-2.5 years and uniquely combines technical mastery with ethical AI development, offering five distinct concentrations: machine learning, robotics and agent-based systems, computer vision, energy systems, and continuous process engineering. Students dive deep into foundational AI algorithms while gaining hands-on experience through Northeastern's renowned co-op program, ranked #1 nationally by U.S. News & World Report, with partnerships spanning Amazon, Ford, Goldman Sachs, and the U.S. Soccer Federation. What truly distinguishes this program is its emphasis on 'human-centric and responsible AI' through the Institute for Experiential AI, where students work on real-world challenges like speech impairment solutions, climate vulnerability assessments, and bias detection in financial services. The curriculum goes beyond traditional AI education by integrating ethics coursework and requiring students to build AI systems that solve actual problems across industries, from healthcare and energy to manufacturing and autonomous systems.

    Degree Programs: MS in Artificial Intelligence (2-2.5 years); MS in Artificial Intelligence - Align (2.5 years)

    Research Labs: Relational Agents Group - AI-based tools for behavioral health care simulations and virtual agents; Lab for Learning and Planning in Robotics - Robotics, AI, and machine learning with planning and reinforcement learning; Cognitive Embodied Social Agents Research (CESAR) - Cognitive and social agent research; NEURAI Lab - Neural AI research; Helping Hands Lab - Robotic assistance and manipulation; Signal Processing and Artificial Intelligence for Time Variant Health Data (SATH) Lab - Health data analysis using AI and signal processing; Databases (DATA Lab) - Data management and database systems; Game User Interaction And Intelligence Lab (GUII) - AI in gaming and user interaction; Spatiotemporal Learning Group - Machine learning for spatial and temporal data; Northeastern Natural Language Processing Research Group - Natural language processing and computational linguistics

    Industry Partners: Amazon, Ford, Goldman Sachs, Roche/Genentech, U.S. Soccer Federation, Maine Health

    Career Outcomes: | Common Roles: Data scientist, AI programmer, Natural language processing developer, Computer vision developer, Machine intelligence engineer, QA automation engineer

    Notable Faculty: Dr. Tina Eliassi-Rad (Data mining, machine learning, and network science); Dr. Usama Fayyad (Data science, machine learning, AI, and data mining); Dr. Christopher Amato (Robotics, AI, and machine learning in multi-agent systems); Dr. Yun Raymond Fu (AI, machine learning, data mining, and computer vision); Dr. Ehsan Elhamifar (Computer vision and AI learning from visual data); Dr. David Bau (Human-computer interaction and machine learning interpretability)

    Admissions:

    Accreditations: F1 visa eligible, ABET accredited engineering concentrations

  8. #8. University of San Diego Artificial Intelligence Program

    Hakia ranks University of San Diego as the #8 in artificial intelligence degree program. Location: San Diego, CA | Type: Private | Tuition: $55,690/year | Graduation Rate: 97% | Score: 68.4

    What makes University of San Diego stand out: USD's MS-AAI program is recognized as one of the nation's only 100% online master's in artificial intelligence programs, uniquely integrating ethics, social good, and moral responsibility across the entire curriculum while maintaining a balance between technical skills and practical business applications.

    Hakia Insight: San Diego's growing tech ecosystem

    Program Overview: The University of San Diego offers a fully online Master of Science in Applied Artificial Intelligence (MS-AAI), a 30-unit program that can be completed in just 20 months across five semesters. Under the direction of Dr. Ebrahim Tarshizi, this innovative program was developed in close collaboration with key industry and government stakeholders to provide in-depth practical and technical training. Students take two courses per semester in an accelerated format, focusing on one 7-week course at a time, with rolling admissions offering three start dates annually (spring, summer, and fall). The program distinguishes itself through a significant emphasis on real-world applications, ethics, moral responsibility, and social good in designing AI-enabled systems, culminating in a comprehensive capstone project that pairs students with instructors and potential industry partners.

    Degree Programs: MS in Applied Artificial Intelligence (20 months)

    Career Outcomes: Placement Rate: Not specified | Top Employers: Various industries based on student showcase | Common Roles: Artificial Intelligence Engineer ($164,769), AI Programmer ($126,472), Machine Learning Applied Researcher ($139,795), Applied Machine Learning Specialist ($121,299), Business Intelligence Developer ($98,283)

    Notable Faculty: Dr. Ebrahim Tarshizi (Program Director with PhD and MBA); Anna Marbut (Professor of Practice with MS in Applied AI)

    Admissions: GPA: 2.75 minimum for STEM degrees | Acceptance Rate: Not specified

    Accreditations: WASC Senior College and University Commission accredited

  9. #9. Brandeis University Artificial Intelligence Program

    Hakia ranks Brandeis University as the #9 in artificial intelligence degree program. Location: Waltham, MA | Type: Private | Tuition: $64,348/year | Graduation Rate: 99% | Score: 67.8

    What makes Brandeis University stand out: Brandeis combines small program sizes that ensure individualized faculty mentoring with proximity to Boston's tech corridor, while offering unique interdisciplinary opportunities like computational linguistics and emerging research in AI bias and cybersecurity policy through specialized institutes.

    Hakia Insight: Brandeis University graduates earn $80,760, driven by the program's industry connections and hands-on artificial intelligence curriculum.

    Program Overview: Brandeis University's Michtom School of Computer Science offers a comprehensive 9-course Master of Science in Computer Science designed for students who already hold an undergraduate degree in computer science. This 3-semester, 36-credit program provides in-depth exposure to cutting-edge areas including distributed computing, big data, machine learning, and computational linguistics. The school also offers specialized tracks like the Master of Science in Computational Linguistics, which bridges AI and language processing. What sets Brandeis apart is its intimate scale - the graduate programs are deliberately small, ensuring individualized attention while maintaining rigorous interdisciplinary training that's become a hallmark of the university. Students benefit from proximity to Boston's thriving tech scene, with companies like Google, Microsoft, Oracle, and Amazon offering research, internship, and career opportunities just minutes away.

    Degree Programs: Bachelor of Arts in Computer Science (4 years); Bachelor of Science in Computer Science (4 years); Master of Science in Computer Science (2 years); Master of Science in Computer Science for Non-Majors (2 years); PhD in Computer Science (4-6 years); Master of Science in Business Analytics with AI Concentration (12-16 months); Master of Science in Business Analytics (Online) (17-20 months); 5-year Bachelor's/Master's Program (5 years)

    Research Labs: Core Machine Learning Lab - Machine learning and AI-assisted applications including consensus clustering, constrained clustering, and data-centric learning; Multilingual Language Processing Lab - Natural language processing and computational linguistics across multiple languages; Brandeis Visual Analytics Laboratory - Visual encodings for data science and interpretable AI interfaces; Dynamical & Evolutionary Machine Organization Lab - Artificial Intelligence, machine learning, artificial life, and evolutionary robotics; Smart and Scalable Data Systems Lab - Data systems that self-adapt and protect privacy by design; Brandeis Autonomous Robotics Teaching Laboratory - Robotics theory and practice with Campus Rover navigation project; Computational Systems Biology Group - Computational methods for understanding biological networks

    Industry Partners: Google, Microsoft, Amazon, Dell EMC, Uber, BBN Technologies

    Career Outcomes: Placement Rate: 90% | Top Employers: The Knot Worldwide, IMF, Takeda, Washington University in St. Louis | Common Roles: Data Scientist, Research Analyst, Statistical Data Analyst, Senior Marketing Operations Analyst

    Notable Faculty: Hongfu Liu (Machine learning and artificial intelligence-assisted applications); Nianwen Xue (Natural language processing and computational linguistics); Dylan Cashman (Visual analytics and interpretable AI interfaces); Jordan Pollack (Artificial intelligence, machine learning, and artificial life); Subhadeep Sarkar (Data systems and privacy-aware computing); Pito Salas (Robotics and autonomous systems)

    Admissions:

    Accreditations: STEM-designated programs available

  10. #10. University of North Texas Artificial Intelligence Program

    Hakia ranks University of North Texas as the #10 in artificial intelligence degree program. Location: Denton, TX | Type: Public | Tuition: $8,319/year | Graduation Rate: 70% | Score: 65.0

    What makes University of North Texas stand out: UNT offers Texas's only standalone Master of Science in Artificial Intelligence degree, combining cutting-edge research at the 300-acre Discovery Park facility with the career advantages of being located in the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex's massive tech corridor.

    Hakia Insight: University of North Texas's industry network — including Texas Instruments and Toyota — provides students with internship and hiring pathways.

    Program Overview: The University of North Texas offers a comprehensive Master of Science in Artificial Intelligence through its College of Engineering, representing the only standalone MS in AI degree in the state of Texas. This 33-credit hour program can be completed in 2-3 years and is available both on-campus at UNT's Discovery Park research facility and fully online, providing exceptional flexibility for working professionals. The program features three distinct concentration areas: Machine Learning, Biomedical Engineering, and Autonomous Systems, allowing students to tailor their studies to specific career interests. Students engage with cutting-edge research across 11 specialized areas including computer vision, natural language processing, cybersecurity, and materials design. What sets UNT's AI program apart is its interdisciplinary approach and strong research foundation, with over 30 faculty members and more than 100 PhD students driving AI research across multiple departments. The program is housed at Discovery Park, a 300-acre research facility featuring state-of-the-art laboratories and equipment, located just five miles from the main campus. Students have access to bridge courses like 'Software Development for Artificial Intelligence' and 'Fundamentals of Artificial Intelligence' to build necessary programming foundations, while core courses dive deep into machine learning, deep learning, big data, and feature engineering. The program's location in the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex, home to the nation's fourth-largest concentration of Fortune 500 companies, provides unparalleled internship and career opportunities.

    Degree Programs: MS in Artificial Intelligence (2-3 years); Combined BS/MS Computer Science and AI (5-6 years); Graduate Academic Certificate in AI (1 year)

    Research Labs: Applied Artificial Intelligence Research - 11 specialized research areas including autonomous vehicles, bioinformatics, computer vision, cybersecurity, and natural language processing; Discovery Park Research Facility - State-of-the-art instructional facilities and laboratories with cutting-edge research equipment

    Industry Partners: Texas Instruments, Toyota, PepsiCo, IBM

    Career Outcomes: | Top Employers: Amazon, Parkland Health and Hospital System, Cognizant | Common Roles: Data Scientist, Software Engineer, Machine Learning Engineer, AI Engineer

    Admissions:

    Accreditations: STEM-designated program qualifying for extended OPT for international students

Our rankings methodology weighs program strength (25%), graduation rate (20%), career outcomes (15%), institutional quality (12%), industry recognition (10%), selectivity (10%), and data transparency (8%). Learn more about our methodology →

Who Should Study Artificial Intelligence?

AI is ideal for students who enjoy mathematical problem-solving, are curious about how machines can learn and reason, and want to work on cutting-edge technology. Strong analytical thinking and comfort with statistics and calculus are essential.

  • Math-strong students comfortable with statistics, calculus, linear algebra, and probability
  • Problem solvers who enjoy working with data and building predictive models
  • Future-focused students interested in emerging technologies and research
  • Programming enthusiasts willing to learn Python, R, and specialized AI frameworks
  • Career-oriented students seeking high-growth, high-paying tech roles

Most AI programs require strong mathematical foundations—expect coursework in calculus, statistics, linear algebra, and discrete mathematics. Prior programming experience is helpful but not required, though comfort with logical thinking is essential.

Artificial Intelligence Degree Levels Compared

AI education is available at multiple levels, each suited to different career goals and backgrounds

Artificial Intelligence Programs by Degree Level

Best Artificial Intelligence Programs - Bachelor's

A bachelor's degree in artificial intelligence is the standard credential for entry-level positions. These 4-year programs provide comprehensive training and hands-on experience.

Best Artificial Intelligence Programs - Top 3 Bachelor's

🥇 #1

Carnegie Mellon University

Pittsburgh, PAPrivate

33 graduates, 98% grad rate, Score: 91.1

$62K
Tuition/yr
98%
Grad Rate
91.1
Score
Visit
Program
🥈 #2

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Cambridge, MAPrivate

4 graduates, N/A% grad rate, Score: 72.7

$60K
Tuition/yr
72.7
Score
Visit
Program
🥉 #3

Pennsylvania State University-Main Campus

University Park, PAPublic

7 graduates, 87% grad rate, Score: 59.8

$20K
Tuition/yr
87%
Grad Rate
59.8
Score
Visit
Program

4. Illinois Institute of Technology (Chicago, IL) - Score: 57.2, Tuition: $49,607

5. University of Massachusetts-Dartmouth (North Dartmouth, MA) - Score: 53.5, Tuition: $14,533

6. Indiana University-Bloomington (Bloomington, IN) - Score: 52.9, Tuition: $10,312

7. Dakota State University (Madison, SD) - Score: 48.2, Tuition: $7,616

8. Concordia University-Wisconsin (Mequon, WI) - Score: 47.8, Tuition: $33,750

9. Buena Vista University (Storm Lake, IA) - Score: 46.2, Tuition: $40,190

10. Drake University (Des Moines, IA) - Score: 41.3, Tuition: $49,466

Best Artificial Intelligence Programs - Master's

A master's degree in artificial intelligence prepares students for senior and specialized roles. These 1-2 year programs offer advanced expertise and leadership training.

Best Artificial Intelligence Programs - Top 3 Master's

🥇 #1

Carnegie Mellon University

Pittsburgh, PAPrivate

178 graduates, 98% grad rate, Score: 100.0

$62K
Tuition/yr
98%
Grad Rate
100.0
Score
Visit
Program
🥈 #2

University of Washington-Seattle Campus

Seattle, WAPublic

48 graduates, 97% grad rate, Score: 85.5

$12K
Tuition/yr
97%
Grad Rate
85.5
Score
Visit
Program
🥉 #3

University of Southern California

Los Angeles, CAPrivate

45 graduates, 92% grad rate, Score: 80.0

$67K
Tuition/yr
92%
Grad Rate
80.0
Score
Visit
Program

4. University of Pennsylvania (Philadelphia, PA) - Score: 79.1, Tuition: $58,620

5. Northwestern University (Evanston, IL) - Score: 71.0, Tuition: $64,887

6. Northeastern University (Boston, MA) - Score: 69.5, Tuition: $62,000

7. University of San Diego (San Diego, CA) - Score: 68.4, Tuition: $55,690

8. Brandeis University (Waltham, MA) - Score: 67.8, Tuition: $64,348

9. University of North Texas (Denton, TX) - Score: 65.0, Tuition: $8,319

10. San Jose State University (San Jose, CA) - Score: 64.8, Tuition: $5,742

Best Artificial Intelligence Programs - Online

Online artificial intelligence programs offer flexibility for working professionals. Top accredited programs provide the same curriculum quality as on-campus alternatives.

Best Artificial Intelligence Programs - Top 3 Online

🥇 #1

Carnegie Mellon University

Pittsburgh, PAPrivate

33 graduates, 98% grad rate, Score: 91.1

$62K
Tuition/yr
98%
Grad Rate
91.1
Score
Visit
Program
🥈 #2

University of Washington-Seattle Campus

Seattle, WAPublic

48 graduates, 97% grad rate, Score: 85.5

$12K
Tuition/yr
97%
Grad Rate
85.5
Score
Visit
Program
🥉 #3

University of Southern California

Los Angeles, CAPrivate

45 graduates, 92% grad rate, Score: 80.0

$67K
Tuition/yr
92%
Grad Rate
80.0
Score
Visit
Program

4. University of Pennsylvania (Philadelphia, PA) - Score: 79.1, Tuition: $58,620

5. Massachusetts Institute of Technology (Cambridge, MA) - Score: 72.7, Tuition: $59,750

6. Northwestern University (Evanston, IL) - Score: 71.0, Tuition: $64,887

7. Northeastern University (Boston, MA) - Score: 69.5, Tuition: $62,000

8. University of San Diego (San Diego, CA) - Score: 68.4, Tuition: $55,690

9. Brandeis University (Waltham, MA) - Score: 67.8, Tuition: $64,348

10. University of North Texas (Denton, TX) - Score: 65.0, Tuition: $8,319

Best Artificial Intelligence Programs - Associate's

An associate's degree in artificial intelligence provides a 2-year pathway into the field. These programs are ideal for career starters or those planning to transfer to a 4-year program.

Best Artificial Intelligence Programs - Top 3 Associate's

🥇 #1

Weber State University

Ogden, UTPublic

139 graduates, 92% grad rate, Score: 64.5

$5K
Tuition/yr
92%
Grad Rate
64.5
Score
Visit
Program
🥈 #2

Rochester Institute of Technology

Rochester, NYPrivate

3 graduates, 90% grad rate, Score: 59.4

$56K
Tuition/yr
90%
Grad Rate
59.4
Score
Visit
Program
🥉 #3

Santa Monica College

Santa Monica, CAPublic

46 graduates, 95% grad rate, Score: 55.7

$1K
Tuition/yr
95%
Grad Rate
55.7
Score
Visit
Program

4. Southern New Hampshire University (Manchester, NH) - Score: 54.4, Tuition: $15,450

5. Green River College (Auburn, WA) - Score: 53.5, Tuition: $4,074

6. Utah Valley University (Orem, UT) - Score: 53.0, Tuition: $5,614

7. CUNY New York City College of Technology (Brooklyn, NY) - Score: 52.5, Tuition: $6,930

8. MiraCosta College (Oceanside, CA) - Score: 52.4, Tuition: $1,104

9. Columbia Basin College (Pasco, WA) - Score: 51.3, Tuition: $5,514

10. De Anza College (Cupertino, CA) - Score: 51.0, Tuition: $1,395

Best Artificial Intelligence Programs - Graduate

Graduate programs in artificial intelligence (PhD and doctoral degrees) prepare students for research, academic, and senior leadership positions.

Best Artificial Intelligence Programs - Top 3 Graduate

🥇 #1

University of California-Berkeley

Berkeley, CAPublic

46 graduates, 96% grad rate, Score: 95.5

$12K
Tuition/yr
96%
Grad Rate
95.5
Score
Visit
Program
🥈 #2

Carnegie Mellon University

Pittsburgh, PAPrivate

51 graduates, 98% grad rate, Score: 94.6

$62K
Tuition/yr
98%
Grad Rate
94.6
Score
Visit
Program
🥉 #3

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Cambridge, MAPrivate

68 graduates, N/A% grad rate, Score: 88.4

$60K
Tuition/yr
88.4
Score
Visit
Program

4. University of Southern California (Los Angeles, CA) - Score: 85.7, Tuition: $66,640

5. University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign (Champaign, IL) - Score: 83.8, Tuition: $14,768

6. Stanford University (Stanford, CA) - Score: 82.8, Tuition: $61,731

7. Princeton University (Princeton, NJ) - Score: 82.6, Tuition: $59,710

8. Cornell University (Ithaca, NY) - Score: 81.8, Tuition: $65,204

9. University of California-San Diego (La Jolla, CA) - Score: 79.6, Tuition: $11,834

10. Purdue University-Main Campus (West Lafayette, IN) - Score: 78.6, Tuition: $9,718

Most Affordable Artificial Intelligence Programs

Looking for quality artificial intelligence education without the hefty price tag? These programs offer the best value—balancing tuition costs with strong academic outcomes and career prospects. Our Value Score factors in graduation rates, program strength, and institutional quality relative to cost.

Top 5 Most Affordable Artificial Intelligence Programs

RankInstitutionLocationTuitionValue ScoreGrad Rate
1University of Central FloridaOrlando, FL$4,478124.493%
2San Jose State UniversitySan Jose, CA$5,742112.9100%
3Florida Atlantic UniversityBoca Raton, FL$2,522112.277%
4University of North TexasDenton, TX$8,31978.170%
5University of Washington-Seattle CampusSeattle, WA$11,52474.297%

Artificial Intelligence Career Outcomes

AI graduates enter one of the fastest-growing and highest-paying tech sectors. The BLS projects 23% job growth for computer and information research scientists through 2032. For detailed compensation analysis, see our AI/ML engineer salary guide.

$85,000
Starting Salary
$130,000
Mid-Career
+23%
Job Growth
17,400
Annual Openings

Career Paths

AI/ML Engineer

SOC 15-1221
+23%

Design and implement machine learning models and AI systems for production applications.

Median Salary:$130,000

Data Scientist

SOC 15-2051
+35%

Apply statistical methods and machine learning to extract insights from large datasets.

Median Salary:$108,020
+25%

Develop AI-powered applications and integrate machine learning capabilities into software products.

Median Salary:$130,160

Computer and Information Research Scientist

SOC 15-1221
+23%

Conduct advanced AI research and develop new computational theories and systems.

Median Salary:$145,080

Robotics Engineer

SOC 17-2199
+6%

Design and develop autonomous robotic systems using AI and machine learning.

Median Salary:$119,140

AI Degree Curriculum Overview

AI programs typically combine computer science foundations with specialized AI coursework and significant mathematical preparation

  • Programming Foundations: Python, R, Java, functional programming concepts
  • Mathematics Core: Calculus I-III, linear algebra, statistics, probability, discrete mathematics
  • AI/ML Core: Machine learning algorithms, neural networks, deep learning, natural language processing
  • Computer Science: Data structures, algorithms, databases, software engineering
  • Specialized Topics: Computer vision, robotics, reinforcement learning, ethical AI
  • Practical Applications: Capstone projects, internships, research experiences

Most programs emphasize hands-on experience with real datasets and industry-standard tools like TensorFlow, PyTorch, and cloud platforms. For detailed curriculum breakdowns, see our AI curriculum guide.

AI Programs by State

StateTotal ProgramsMedian TuitionTop Program
Best Artificial Intelligence Programs in Arizona$NaN
Best Artificial Intelligence Programs in California45$15,800Stanford, UC Berkeley
Best Artificial Intelligence Programs in Colorado$NaN
Best Artificial Intelligence Programs in Connecticut28$16,800Yale, UConn
Best Artificial Intelligence Programs in Florida22$6,800UF, FSU
Best Artificial Intelligence Programs in Georgia16$10,100Georgia Tech
Best Artificial Intelligence Programs in Illinois20$15,600UIUC, Northwestern
Best Artificial Intelligence Programs in Indiana35$10,200Purdue, IU Bloomington
Best Artificial Intelligence Programs in Maryland35$10,900UMD, Johns Hopkins
Best Artificial Intelligence Programs in Massachusetts25$17,200MIT, Harvard
Best Artificial Intelligence Programs in Michigan$NaN
Best Artificial Intelligence Programs in Minnesota32$14,600U of Minnesota
Best Artificial Intelligence Programs in Missouri32$11,300Wash U, Mizzou
Best Artificial Intelligence Programs in New Jersey42$15,200Rutgers, Princeton
Best Artificial Intelligence Programs in New York32$8,900Cornell, Columbia
Best Artificial Intelligence Programs in North Carolina18$7,600Duke, UNC
Best Artificial Intelligence Programs in Ohio$NaN
Best Artificial Intelligence Programs in Oregon25$12,400Oregon State, U of Oregon
Best Artificial Intelligence Programs in Pennsylvania24$19,800CMU, Penn
Best Artificial Intelligence Programs in Tennessee30$9,800Vanderbilt, UT Knoxville
Best Artificial Intelligence Programs in Texas28$12,200UT Austin, Texas A&M
Best Artificial Intelligence Programs in Utah22$8,900U of Utah, BYU
Best Artificial Intelligence Programs in Virginia$NaN
Best Artificial Intelligence Programs in Washington18$12,500UW Seattle
Best Artificial Intelligence Programs in Wisconsin28$10,700UW-Madison

AI vs Related Fields

AI programs take a broader view than machine learning, encompassing symbolic AI, knowledge representation, robotics, computer vision, natural language processing, and AI ethics. This breadth provides context for understanding where different AI approaches succeed and fail.

The philosophical and ethical dimensions of AI distinguish it from purely technical fields. AI programs often address questions like: What is intelligence? How do we ensure AI systems are fair? What are the societal implications of automation? These questions matter increasingly as AI systems affect more decisions.

AI careers span research (pushing capabilities forward), applied engineering (deploying AI in products), and increasingly AI policy and governance roles. The field's rapid evolution means continuous learning is essential—what you learn in school is a foundation, not a complete education.

Choose Artificial Intelligence if...
  • You're specifically interested in machine learning and intelligent systems
  • You enjoy mathematics and statistical modeling
  • You want to work on cutting-edge technology and research
  • You're comfortable with abstract thinking and complex algorithms
Choose Computer Science if...
  • You want broader foundations across all computing areas
  • You prefer maximum career flexibility
  • You're unsure about specializing in AI early
  • You want to explore multiple tech domains before focusing
Choose Data Science if...
  • You're more interested in data analysis than AI systems
  • You prefer business applications over technical research
  • You want to focus on insights and decision-making
  • You're interested in statistics more than computer science theory
Choose Software Engineering if...
  • You want to focus on building applications and systems
  • You prefer practical development over research
  • You're less interested in mathematical foundations
  • You want immediate employability in development roles

Is an AI Degree Worth It?

For students interested in AI careers, yes. The combination of high salaries ($130,000+ median), strong job growth (23% through 2032), and increasing AI adoption across industries makes AI education a solid investment.

When it's worth it: You have strong mathematical foundations, enjoy working with data and algorithms, and are interested in emerging technology. AI roles often require advanced degrees, making the educational investment necessary for many positions.

When to consider alternatives: You're uncertain about AI specifically (start with computer science), you want faster entry to tech careers (consider bootcamps), or you're primarily interested in web/mobile development rather than AI systems.

The AI field is rapidly evolving, creating new opportunities but also requiring continuous learning. Strong foundational education provides the adaptability needed for long-term success.

Alternative Learning Paths

While a degree provides the strongest foundation for AI careers, alternative paths exist for specific goals

Many professionals combine formal education with continuous learning through online courses, certifications, and hands-on projects. The field moves quickly, requiring ongoing skill development regardless of initial education path.

Coding Bootcamps: An Alternative Pathway

Coding bootcamps offer an accelerated pathway into artificial intelligence careers. For those considering alternatives to traditional degrees, here's what you need to know about this intensive learning format.

What is a Coding Bootcamp?

A coding bootcamp is an intensive, short-term training program (typically 12-24 weeks) that teaches practical programming skills through hands-on projects. Unlike traditional degrees, bootcamps focus exclusively on job-ready skills and often include career services to help graduates land their first tech role.

Who Bootcamps Are Best For

  • Career changers looking to enter tech quickly
  • Professionals wanting to upskill or transition roles
  • Self-taught developers seeking structured training
  • Those unable to commit to a 4-year degree timeline

What People Love

Based on discussions from r/codingbootcamp, r/cscareerquestions, and r/learnprogramming

  • AI literacy is increasingly valuable across all tech roles
  • Learn to work with LLMs, RAG, and modern AI tools
  • AI bootcamps are newer, often more current than university courses
  • Companies need people who can apply AI, not just research it
  • Good stepping stone to AI product or AI engineering roles

Common Concerns

Honest feedback from bootcamp graduates and industry professionals

  • True AI research roles still require advanced degrees
  • Field moving so fast, curriculum may lag behind state-of-art
  • 'AI Engineer' title is poorly defined—roles vary wildly
  • Many AI roles are actually software engineering + API calls
  • Hype cycle makes it hard to separate real value from marketing
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Programs for Artificial Intelligence careers:

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Artificial Intelligence Degree FAQ

Related Resources

Taylor Rupe

Taylor Rupe

Co-founder & Editor (B.S. Computer Science, Oregon State • B.A. Psychology, University of Washington)

Taylor combines technical expertise in computer science with a deep understanding of human behavior and learning. His dual background drives Hakia's mission: leveraging technology to build authoritative educational resources that help people make better decisions about their academic and career paths.