Top 3 AI Programs in Arizona 2025
Arizona State University Campus Immersion
758 Artificial Intelligence graduates annually, 81% graduation rate
University of Arizona
255 Artificial Intelligence graduates annually, 68% graduation rate
Northern Arizona University
70 Artificial Intelligence graduates annually, 98% graduation rate
- 1.Arizona has 18+ artificial intelligence and machine learning bachelor's programs, with ASU leading state offerings (IPEDS 2023)
- 2.Arizona State University ranks #1 in Arizona with dedicated School of Computing and Augmented Intelligence and
- 3.Arizona AI professionals earn median $118,250 annually, 8% above national median for computer and information research scientists (BLS Arizona 2024)
- 4.Phoenix metro area hosts major tech employers including Intel, Honeywell, Raytheon, and growing startup ecosystem with 12,000+ software developer jobs
- 5.In-state tuition at public universities averages $12,299—significantly lower than California and other tech hub states
Arizona's Growing Artificial Intelligence Education Landscape
Arizona has emerged as a surprising leader in AI education, led by Arizona State University's groundbreaking School of Computing and Augmented Intelligence. The state offers a unique combination of cutting-edge research, industry partnerships with tech giants like Intel and IBM, and significantly lower costs than traditional tech hubs.
Arizona's AI programs benefit from the state's growing tech sector, with Phoenix ranking among the fastest-growing tech cities in America. Major employers including Intel, Honeywell, Raytheon, and a thriving startup ecosystem provide abundant internship and career opportunities for AI graduates.
For national perspective, review our best AI bachelor's programs nationwide or explore most affordable AI programs for budget-conscious students. Career-focused students should examine our AI/ML engineer salary guide for Arizona-specific compensation data.
Arizona AI and Machine Learning Programs Rankings
| Rank | |||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Arizona State University Campus Immersion | Tempe, AZ | Public | $11,308 | 81% | — | 75.2 |
| 2 | University of Arizona | Tucson, AZ | Public | $11,546 | 68% | — | 57.5 |
| 3 | Northern Arizona University | Flagstaff, AZ | Public | $11,015 | 98% | — | 51.5 |
| 4 | American InterContinental University System | Chandler, AZ | For-Profit | $11,650 | — | — | 44.7 |
| 5 | University of Phoenix-Arizona | Phoenix, AZ | For-Profit | $9,552 | — | — | 42.1 |
| 6 | Arizona State University Digital Immersion | Scottsdale, AZ | Public | $11,308 | — | — | 42 |
| 7 | University of Advancing Technology | Tempe, AZ | For-Profit | $18,462 | 74% | — | 39.9 |
| 8 | Grand Canyon University | Phoenix, AZ | For-Profit | $16,390 | 34% | — | 37.8 |
Top 5 Artificial Intelligence Programs in Arizona: Side-by-Side
| School | Arizona State University... | Arizona State University... | U of Arizona | Northern Arizona | U of Phoenix-Arizona |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rank | #1 | #2 | #3 | #4 | #5 |
| In-State Tuition | $11,308 | $11,308 | $11,546 | $11,015 | $9,552 |
| Graduation Rate | 81% | N/A% | 68% | 98% | N/A% |
| Annual Graduates | 758 | 362 | 255 | 86 | 37 |
| Acceptance Rate | 90% | 64% | 86% | 91% | N/A |
| Type | Public | Public | Public | Public | For-Profit |
| Score | 75.2/100 | 61.3/100 | 57.5/100 | 55.3/100 | 44.8/100 |
Best Bachelor's Degree Programs in Artificial Intelligence in Arizona
Arizona offers 7 bachelor's-level artificial intelligence programs. The top schools for undergraduate study are Arizona State University Campus Immersion, University of Arizona, Northern Arizona University. These programs prepare students for entry-level positions paying approximately $74,151 in the Arizona market.
A bachelor's in artificial intelligence typically requires 120-128 credit hours and takes 4 years to complete. For national rankings, see our Best Artificial Intelligence Bachelor's Programs guide.
Top 3 Artificial Intelligence Bachelor's Programs in Arizona
| School | Tuition | Grad Rate | Graduates | Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 Arizona State University... | $11,308 | 81% | 758 | 75.2 |
| #2 U of Arizona | $11,546 | 68% | 255 | 57.5 |
| #3 Northern Arizona | $11,015 | 98% | 70 | 54.1 |
Top Artificial Intelligence Schools for Master's Degrees in Arizona
For graduate study, Arizona offers 6 master's-level artificial intelligence programs. Leading institutions include Arizona State University Campus Immersion, Arizona State University Digital Immersion, Northern Arizona University. A master's degree can boost earning potential by 15-25%, with senior roles in Arizona reaching $137,709 or more.
Top 3 Artificial Intelligence Master's Programs in Arizona
| School | Tuition | Grad Rate | Graduates | Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 Arizona State University... | $11,308 | 81% | 742 | 75.2 |
| #2 Arizona State University... | $11,308 | N/A% | 362 | 61.3 |
| #3 Northern Arizona | $11,015 | 98% | 86 | 55.3 |
Most Affordable Artificial Intelligence Colleges in Arizona
For budget-conscious students, the most affordable artificial intelligence programs in Arizona are at University of Phoenix-Arizona ($9,552/year), Northern Arizona University ($11,015/year), Arizona State University Campus Immersion ($11,308/year). These programs offer strong ROI given Arizona's competitive tech salaries.
At University of Phoenix-Arizona, a 4-year degree costs approximately $38,208 in tuition alone. With entry-level salaries around $74,151, graduates can typically recoup their investment within 1 years.
Most Affordable Artificial Intelligence Programs in Arizona (with ROI)
| School | Annual Tuition | 4-Year Cost | Payback Period | Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 U of Phoenix-Arizona | $9,552 | $38,208 | 1 years | For-Profit |
| #2 Northern Arizona | $11,015 | $44,060 | 1.1 years | Public |
| #3 Arizona State University... | $11,308 | $45,232 | 1.2 years | Public |
Arizona State University Campus Immersion
Tempe, AZ • Public
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $11,308 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 81% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Artificial Intelligence Graduates: 758 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 90%
- • Ranking Score: 75.2 / 100
Program Strengths
- 81% graduation rate
- 758 artificial intelligence graduates annually
- Public institution
- Overall score: 75.2 / 100
Why Ranked #1
Ranked #1 based on graduation rate (81%), program size (758 graduates), state salary outcomes ($105,930), and selectivity (90% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Why Choose This Program
ASU offers STEM-designated AI programs with accelerated bachelor's plus master's options, ABET accreditation, and specialized tracks including Intelligence Community Center of Academic Excellence designated programs. Students gain access to over 650 industry partners and can complete degrees in as little as five years with both undergraduate and graduate credentials.
Program Accreditations & Designations
Admission Prerequisites
- •MAT 265 - Calculus for Engineers I
Program Details
- Credits: 120 credits
Available Specializations / Concentrations
Arizona State University Digital Immersion
Scottsdale, AZ • Public
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $11,308 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: N/A% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Artificial Intelligence Graduates: 362 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 64%
- • Ranking Score: 61.3 / 100
Program Strengths
- N/A% graduation rate
- 362 artificial intelligence graduates annually
- Public institution
- Overall score: 61.3 / 100
Why Ranked #2
Ranked #2 based on graduation rate (N/A%), program size (362 graduates), state salary outcomes ($105,930), and selectivity (64% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Why Choose This Program
This program offers IC-CAE designation from the Defense Intelligence Agency, demonstrating it meets the most demanding requirements for preparing graduates for successful careers within the US Intelligence Community. Students gain hands-on experience through a state-of-the-art Virtual Learning Environment and receive exclusive internship and career placement assistance.
Program Accreditations & Designations
Program Details
- Credits: 120 credits
Available Specializations / Concentrations
University of Arizona
Tucson, AZ • Public
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $11,546 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 68% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Artificial Intelligence Graduates: 255 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 86%
- • Ranking Score: 57.5 / 100
Program Strengths
- 68% graduation rate
- 255 artificial intelligence graduates annually
- Public institution
- Overall score: 57.5 / 100
Why Ranked #3
Ranked #3 based on graduation rate (68%), program size (255 graduates), state salary outcomes ($105,930), and selectivity (86% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Why Choose This Program
The University of Arizona offers both undergraduate and graduate AI programs with hands-on learning through state-of-the-art online technologies and coursework designed to maximize learning by doing. The programs feature strong industry connections with top employers like Amazon, Google, and Microsoft, while maintaining top national rankings including Top 3% Online Bachelor's Program recognition.
Available Scholarships
Admission Prerequisites
- •calculus
- •discrete mathematics
- •machine architecture
- •programming languages
- •data structures
- •algorithm analysis
- •theory of computation
- •software systems
- •operating systems or compilers course
- •algorithms or theory of computation course
Admissions
- Min GPA: 3.2 for MS applicants, 3.5 for PhD applicants
Program Details
- Credits: 120 credits
Career Outcomes
- Starting Salary: $109,900 per year for Master's in Data Science graduates
- Top Employers: Amazon, Apple, The Boeing Company, Booz, Allen and Hamilton, Capital One, Cisco Systems, CTG, CyberCoders, Deloitte, Elevance Health, Google, Humana, IBM, Lockheed Martin, Meta, Microsoft, Northrop Grumman, Randstad, The Roche Group, Square, USAA Insurance, Verisk Analytics
Available Specializations / Concentrations
Northern Arizona University
Flagstaff, AZ • Public
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $11,015 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 98% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Artificial Intelligence Graduates: 86 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 91%
- • Ranking Score: 55.3 / 100
Program Strengths
- 98% graduation rate
- 86 artificial intelligence graduates annually
- Public institution
- Overall score: 55.3 / 100
Why Ranked #4
Ranked #4 based on graduation rate (98%), program size (86 graduates), state salary outcomes ($105,930), and selectivity (91% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
University of Phoenix-Arizona
Phoenix, AZ • For-Profit
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $9,552 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: N/A% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Artificial Intelligence Graduates: 37 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: N/A%
- • Ranking Score: 44.8 / 100
Program Strengths
- N/A% graduation rate
- 37 artificial intelligence graduates annually
- For-Profit institution
- Overall score: 44.8 / 100
Why Ranked #5
Ranked #5 based on graduation rate (N/A%), program size (37 graduates), state salary outcomes ($105,930), and selectivity (N/A% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Career Paths
Design and implement machine learning systems, neural networks, and AI applications for companies like Intel, Honeywell, and emerging Phoenix startups.
Develop AI-powered applications and systems, particularly in aerospace, defense, and emerging fintech sectors throughout Arizona.
Apply machine learning to business problems across Arizona's growing tech sector, healthcare systems, and government contractors.
Research Scientist
Conduct AI research at universities, national labs, and R&D departments of major Arizona employers like Raytheon and Boeing.
Computer Vision Engineer
Develop visual recognition systems for autonomous vehicles, aerospace applications, and security systems at Arizona's defense contractors.
Arizona University Systems and AI Education
Arizona's public university system, known as the Arizona Board of Regents (ABOR), oversees three major research universities that offer AI and machine learning programs. Each institution brings unique strengths to Arizona's AI education landscape.
Arizona State University stands as the flagship institution with its groundbreaking School of Computing and Augmented Intelligence. As one of the largest universities in the US, ASU leverages its scale to offer comprehensive AI programs with extensive research opportunities and industry partnerships.
The University of Arizona focuses on research-intensive AI education, particularly strong in machine learning applications for aerospace and defense. Their NSF-funded research centers provide undergraduates with exceptional research opportunities typically reserved for graduate students.
Northern Arizona University provides a more intimate setting for AI education, combining technical rigor with liberal arts breadth. Their emerging AI programs emphasize applied machine learning with strong support systems for student success.
Arizona's community college system also contributes through transfer pathways and associate degree programs in computer science and data analytics, providing affordable entry points into AI education. Students can complete prerequisites at community colleges before transferring to four-year institutions.
Other Tech Degree Programs in Arizona
AI Programs in Other States
California
Texas
New York
Florida
Washington
Massachusetts
Illinois
Pennsylvania
Which Should You Choose?
- Access to cutting-edge AI research at ASU's School of Computing and Augmented Intelligence
- Significantly lower tuition costs compared to California and other tech hub states
- Industry partnerships with major tech employers like Intel, IBM, and Honeywell
- Growing job market in Phoenix with 32% projected AI/ML job growth
- Year-round sunshine and outdoor recreation opportunities
- Strong alumni networks in both traditional and emerging tech centers
- Research opportunities typically reserved for graduate students
- Direct pathways to aerospace and defense AI applications
- Established tech ecosystems like Silicon Valley or Seattle
- Higher concentration of AI startups and venture capital
- More diverse AI industry sectors beyond aerospace and defense
- Cooler climates and different lifestyle preferences
- Graduate programs with broader AI research areas
- International AI research collaborations and exchanges
Frequently Asked Questions About Arizona AI Programs
Based on 12 programs from IPEDS 2023, BLS OES May 2024
Artificial Intelligence degree completions indicating program size, faculty, and resources
6-year completion rate from IPEDS 2023 (4-year institutions weighted higher)
Admission rate from IPEDS 2023 (lower = more selective)
State-specific artificial intelligence salaries from BLS OES 2024
Related AI Education Resources
Data Sources and Methodology
Official federal database providing graduation rates, enrollment, and institutional data for all accredited colleges and universities
State-specific salary data for computer and mathematical occupations in Arizona
University research expenditures and funding data for AI and computer science programs
Official data on Arizona public university enrollment, graduation rates, and program offerings
Annual analysis of Arizona's technology job market and employment trends
Source: BLS Arizona Employment Projections 2024
Taylor Rupe
Full-Stack Developer (B.S. Computer Science, B.A. Psychology)
Taylor combines formal training in computer science with a background in human behavior to evaluate complex search, AI, and data-driven topics. His technical review ensures each article reflects current best practices in semantic search, AI systems, and web technology.