- 1.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.
Source: BLS OEWS 2024, industry analysis
Best Artificial Intelligence Programs - Top 10
These are the best artificial intelligence 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
Carnegie Mellon University
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.
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
Research Labs & Institutes
Natural language processing, machine translation, speech recognition, and language-based AI systems
Statistical learning, deep learning, reinforcement learning, and machine learning theory
First U.S. university robotics institute conducting basic and applied robotics research
Human-AI interaction, user experience design for AI systems, and human-centered AI
Epidemiological tracking and disease forecasting, selected by CDC as Center for Innovation in Outbreak Analytics and Disease Modeling in 2023
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
Career Outcomes
Government agencies, Consulting firms, Technology companies, Startups, Research institutions
Certifications & Designations
Admissions
University of Washington-Seattle Campus
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.
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
Research Labs & Institutes
Data-driven discovery and control of complex dynamical systems
Automated decision-making for cyber-physical systems
Foundational AI and Natural Language Processing for general-purpose AI algorithms
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
Career Outcomes
Admissions
University of Southern California
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.
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
Research Labs & Institutes
AI for social good across environment, health, and homelessness
Knowledge graphs and information extraction
Human-robot interaction and socially assistive robotics
Object detection, recognition, and video analysis
Advanced machine learning algorithms and applications
Multi-robot systems and autonomous navigation
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
Career Outcomes
Amazon Web Services, Google, Microsoft, Uber, TikTok
Certifications & Designations
Admissions
University of Pennsylvania
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.
Massachusetts Institute of Technology
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.
Northwestern University
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.
Northeastern University
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.
University of San Diego
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.
Brandeis University
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.
University of North Texas
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.
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
2-year programs for career entry or transfer to bachelor's programs
Top-ranked undergraduate programs nationwide
Top graduate programs for specialization and advancement
PhD programs for research and academic careers
Flexible online programs for working professionals
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
Carnegie Mellon University
33 graduates, 98% grad rate, Score: 91.1
Massachusetts Institute of Technology
4 graduates, N/A% grad rate, Score: 72.7
Pennsylvania State University-Main Campus
7 graduates, 87% grad rate, Score: 59.8
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
Carnegie Mellon University
178 graduates, 98% grad rate, Score: 100.0
University of Washington-Seattle Campus
48 graduates, 97% grad rate, Score: 85.5
University of Southern California
45 graduates, 92% grad rate, Score: 80.0
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
Carnegie Mellon University
33 graduates, 98% grad rate, Score: 91.1
University of Washington-Seattle Campus
48 graduates, 97% grad rate, Score: 85.5
University of Southern California
45 graduates, 92% grad rate, Score: 80.0
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
Weber State University
139 graduates, 92% grad rate, Score: 64.5
Rochester Institute of Technology
3 graduates, 90% grad rate, Score: 59.4
Santa Monica College
46 graduates, 95% grad rate, Score: 55.7
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
University of California-Berkeley
46 graduates, 96% grad rate, Score: 95.5
Carnegie Mellon University
51 graduates, 98% grad rate, Score: 94.6
Massachusetts Institute of Technology
68 graduates, N/A% grad rate, Score: 88.4
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
| Rank | Institution | Location | Tuition | Value Score | Grad Rate |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | University of Central Florida | Orlando, FL | $4,478 | 124.4 | 93% |
| 2 | San Jose State University | San Jose, CA | $5,742 | 112.9 | 100% |
| 3 | Florida Atlantic University | Boca Raton, FL | $2,522 | 112.2 | 77% |
| 4 | University of North Texas | Denton, TX | $8,319 | 78.1 | 70% |
| 5 | University of Washington-Seattle Campus | Seattle, WA | $11,524 | 74.2 | 97% |
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.
Career Paths
AI/ML Engineer
SOC 15-1221Design and implement machine learning models and AI systems for production applications.
Data Scientist
SOC 15-2051Apply statistical methods and machine learning to extract insights from large datasets.
Software Developer
SOC 15-1252Develop AI-powered applications and integrate machine learning capabilities into software products.
Computer and Information Research Scientist
SOC 15-1221Conduct advanced AI research and develop new computational theories and systems.
Robotics Engineer
SOC 17-2199Design and develop autonomous robotic systems using AI and machine learning.
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
Arizona
California
Colorado
Connecticut
Florida
Georgia
Illinois
Indiana
Maryland
Massachusetts
Michigan
Minnesota
Missouri
New Jersey
New York
North Carolina
Ohio
Oregon
Pennsylvania
Tennessee
Texas
Utah
Virginia
Washington
Wisconsin
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.
Which Should You Choose?
- 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
- 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
- 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
- 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
- Best AI & Machine Learning Bootcamps — Intensive programs for career switchers
- AI/ML Certifications Worth Getting — Professional credentials for advancement
- AWS Machine Learning Specialty — Cloud-based ML credentials
- Google Cloud ML Engineer — Platform-specific AI certifications
- Self-Taught AI Path — Independent learning strategies
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.
Artificial Intelligence Degree FAQ
Based on 485 programs from IPEDS 2023, BLS OES 2024, NSA CAE Database
Number of artificial intelligence graduates from IPEDS 2023, indicating program resources and faculty depth
6-year completion rate from IPEDS 2023, measuring student success
State-level salary data from BLS OES 2024 for relevant occupations
Carnegie Classification with bonus for R1 research universities
NSA/DHS CAE-CD designation for cybersecurity programs, ABET accreditation for engineering
Admission rate from IPEDS 2023 (lower = more selective)
Completeness of reported metrics to IPEDS
Related Resources
Taylor Rupe
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