Best Bachelor's Artificial Intelligence Degree Programs in Georgia
Georgia State University — Atlanta, GA
Key Distinction: GSU's R1 research status and downtown Atlanta location position it as a bridge between academic research and the city's growing fintech and cybersecurity industries.
Hakia Insight: Georgia State's R1 research designation combined with downtown Atlanta positioning gives undergrads unusual access to fintech and cybersecurity research labs while staying embedded in a city with active Fortune 500 tech hiring—bridging the research-to-employment gap most programs leave to chance.
At the bachelor's level, as a major urban research institution, Georgia State has developed an artificial intelligence program designed for working professionals and full-time students seeking practical skill development alongside theoretical grounding. The program's accessibility through various delivery formats—including evening and online options—reflects GSU's commitment to serving Atlanta's diverse student population while building the regional AI workforce. Faculty expertise spans machine learning systems, natural language processing, and AI applications in business intelligence, with strong connections to Atlanta-based employers actively hiring AI talent. Students work on real datasets and industry-relevant problems, moving quickly from foundational concepts to applied projects that mirror workplace challenges. The program particularly emphasizes scalability and production-level AI systems rather than purely research-oriented work, making it attractive to students seeking careers in tech companies, financial institutions, and enterprise organizations. Internship placements frequently lead to full-time offers, as employers use the program as a pipeline for junior AI engineers and data scientists. GSU's location and institutional focus on serving the local economy mean the program maintains direct relationships with hiring managers and project opportunities within the Atlanta metropolitan region.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Artificial Intelligence — 4 years, on-campus
- Bachelor of Arts in Artificial Intelligence — 4 years, online
Research Labs and Institutes
- Center for Digital Innovation
- Center for Research in Information Systems
- Center for Research in Information Security and Privacy
Industry Partners
- Georgia Tech (corporate)
- The Coca-Cola Company (corporate)
- CDC (government)
Career Outcomes
Top Employers: The Coca-Cola Company, Delta Air Lines, State of Georgia, IBM, Microsoft.
Location Advantages: Downtown Atlanta locationAccess to fintech and cybersecurity sectorsProximity to Fortune 500 corporate headquartersRegional technology job market
University of Georgia — Athens, GA
Key Distinction: ABET accreditation. Optional Area of Emphasis in Artificial Intelligence (available Fall 2026)
Hakia Insight: UGA's optional AI Emphasis (launching Fall 2026) arriving *after* ABET-accredited CS foundations means students build bulletproof fundamentals before specializing, avoiding the common pitfall of AI-first programs that under-develop core systems knowledge.
The Bachelor of Science in Computer Science at the University of Georgia provides a strong foundation in computer science theory and practice within a liberal arts education framework. The program comprises 121 credit hours and includes core coursework in software development, data structures, algorithms, computer architecture, and systems design. Beginning Fall 2026, students may pursue an Area of Emphasis in Artificial Intelligence with slightly modified degree requirements. The curriculum emphasizes practical application through courses in software engineering, database management, operating systems, and computer networks. Students must maintain a grade of C or higher in all major coursework. The program is ABET-accredited and prepares graduates for careers in software development, systems administration, consulting, project management, and increasingly in AI and cybersecurity fields. Academic advising support is provided throughout the degree to ensure timely graduation.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Computer Science — 4 years, on-campus. BS
Notable Faculty
- Dr. Ramviyas Parasuraman — Director of Graduate Studies
- Dr. Kimberly Van Orman — Undergraduate Coordinator
- Fei Dou — Machine Learning & Health Informatics
Admissions
GPA Requirement: 3.0.
Requirements: UGA General Education Core Curriculum, School of Computing Major Requirements, Franklin College of Arts and Sciences requirements, University System of Georgia requirements, Grade of C (2.0) or higher in all major coursework and prerequisites, Computing & Society course (CSCI 3030), Computer Architecture course (CSCI 4720), Algorithms course (CSCI 4470), Application Design course (CSCI 4050 or CSCI 4370), Systems Design course (CSCI 4570, CSCI 4730, or CSCI 4760), 12 hours of CSCI 4000-level electives, 11 hours of math/statistics electives, Teamwork requirement (CSCI 4050, CSCI 4300, CSCI 4530, or CSCI 4800)
Location Advantages:
Emory University — Atlanta, GA
Key Distinction: Emory combines rigorous computer science research with unique strengths in health informatics and biomedical computing, leveraging its position as a leading research university with major medical and healthcare connections.
Hakia Insight: Emory's health informatics and biomedical computing focus—leveraging its own healthcare system—creates a rare undergraduate pipeline into AI roles within medicine and life sciences, sectors where AI talent commands significant premiums but remains scarce.
At the bachelor's level, emory's artificial intelligence program benefits from the university's strong research infrastructure and partnerships with leading tech companies in the Southeast. The program emphasizes practical machine learning applications across healthcare, business analytics, and computational science, with particular strength in AI ethics and responsible AI development—areas increasingly critical to industry employers. Students engage with faculty who maintain active research agendas, providing opportunities to contribute to publications and real-world projects rather than purely classroom-based learning. The curriculum balances theoretical foundations in algorithms, neural networks, and statistical methods with hands-on experience in contemporary tools and frameworks. Emory's location in Atlanta, a growing tech hub, facilitates internships and career connections with companies expanding their AI capabilities. Graduate outcomes reflect strong placement in both tech companies and domain-specific roles where AI expertise is applied—finance, healthcare analytics, and consulting firms actively recruit from the program. The interdisciplinary nature of Emory's approach means students can integrate AI study with domain knowledge in business, medicine, or other fields, creating graduates positioned for specialized roles rather than generic data science positions.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Artificial Intelligence — 4 years, on-campus
- Bachelor of Arts in Artificial Intelligence — 4 years, online
Research Labs and Institutes
- Department of Computer Science Research Groups
Industry Partners
- Emory Healthcare (nonprofit)
Career Outcomes
Top Employers: Tech companies, Healthcare organizations, Financial services firms.
Location Advantages: Location in Atlanta, major technology hubProximity to major tech companies headquarters and officesStrong connections to healthcare and biomedical sectorsAccess to leading research institutions and medical centers
Kennesaw State University — Kennesaw, GA
Key Distinction: KSU's proximity to Atlanta's corporate technology sector and emphasis on cooperative education create direct pathways between classroom learning and industry employment.
Hakia Insight: Kennesaw State's cooperative education requirement doesn't just add internship experience—it embeds paid work rotations into degree completion, meaning graduates often enter full-time roles at co-op employers with both credential and institutional knowledge already established.
At the bachelor's level, kennesaw State University's computer science and engineering programs have grown significantly since the university's founding in 1966. Located in the Atlanta metropolitan area, KSU serves over 37,000 students and has expanded its technical offerings to meet regional demand from Georgia's growing tech sector. The university's engineering programs received ABET accreditation, reflecting commitment to quality in computer science and related disciplines. KSU emphasizes practical, industry-focused education with strong connections to Atlanta's corporate community, including technology companies in the Cobb County corridor. The university has developed partnerships with regional employers and participates in cooperative education programs that integrate classroom learning with professional experience. Research activities focus on software engineering, cybersecurity, and systems development, with faculty engaged in projects relevant to enterprise and government applications. The institution prioritizes accessibility and workforce development, serving a diverse student population and supporting degree completion in engineering and computer science fields.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Artificial Intelligence — 4 years, on-campus
- Bachelor of Arts in Artificial Intelligence — 4 years, online
Industry Partners
- Lockheed Martin (corporate)
- The Home Depot (corporate)
- Delta Air Lines (corporate)
Career Outcomes
Top Employers: Lockheed Martin, The Home Depot, Delta Air Lines, IBM, Microsoft.
Accreditations and Certifications
Location Advantages: Cobb County technology corridorGreater Atlanta metropolitan area tech hubProximity to major corporate headquarters
Georgia Institute of Technology-Main Campus — Atlanta, GA
Key Distinction: Georgia Tech's AI programs are distinguished by their interdisciplinary approach across top-ranked colleges, access to two NSF-funded National AI centers (AI-ALOE and AI-CARING), and integration with the Institute for Robotics and Intelligent Machines (IRIM).
Hakia Insight: Georgia Tech's dual NSF AI centers (AI-ALOE and AI-CARING) plus IRIM access mean undergrads can contribute to national-scale research infrastructure within their first two years, a rarity at schools where undergrad research is peripheral rather than core to the program design.
The Bachelor of Science in Mathematics and Computing at Georgia Tech offers rigorous, integrated training combining mathematical depth with computational fluency. The program prepares students for cutting-edge interdisciplinary fields including artificial intelligence, computational science, data-driven modeling, algorithm design, and mathematical foundations of machine learning. Students develop both theoretical understanding and practical computational skills, learning not just how computational systems work, but why they work and how to prove their properties. Graduates are well-positioned for industry roles as data scientists, numerical programmers, quantitative finance engineers, cryptographers, graphics engineers, and computer vision engineers across multiple sectors of the digital economy. The program emphasizes the intersection of mathematics and computing, preparing students to build new applications and solve complex problems from first principles.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Mathematics and Computing — 4 years, on-campus. BS
Research Labs and Institutes
- Machine Learning at Georgia Tech
- Computer Vision Lab
- Natural Language Processing Lab
- Computational Behavior Analysis Lab
- CORE Robotics Lab
- Design & Intelligence Lab
- Entertainment & Intelligence Lab
- Machine Learning and Perception Lab
- RAIL Lab
- STAR Lab
Notable Faculty
- Dr. Sonia Chernova — AI, Robotics
- Dr. Irfan Essa — AI, ML, CV, Robotics
- Dr. Animesh Garg — ML, CV, Robotics
- Dr. Ashok Goel — AI, CogSci
- Dr. James Hays — ML, CV, Robotics
- Dr. Larry Heck — AI, ML, NLP
- Dr. Judy Hoffman — ML, CV
- Dr. Mark Riedl — AI, ML, NLP
- Dr. Thad Starner — AI, ML, CV, NLP
Admissions
GPA Requirement: 3.0.
Requirements: Probability/statistics, Computer programming in Python, Calculus and basic linear algebra
Location Advantages:
Morehouse College — Atlanta, GA
Key Distinction: Morehouse's AI program uniquely centers ethical AI development and social impact, preparing students to build technology that addresses real-world inequities rather than treating AI as a purely technical domain.
Hakia Insight: Morehouse's centering of ethical AI and social impact isn't decorative—it's baked into admissions, hiring, and partnerships, producing graduates who can articulate *why* their AI work matters, a differentiator as companies increasingly scrutinize algorithmic bias and fairness in hiring.
At the bachelor's level, morehouse College's approach to artificial intelligence education prioritizes ethical AI development and social impact, embedding responsible computing principles throughout its curriculum. Rather than treating AI as a purely technical discipline, the program challenges students to consider algorithmic bias, fairness in machine learning systems, and AI's role in addressing societal challenges—particularly those affecting underrepresented communities. This ethical lens distinguishes Morehouse's AI education from competitors and reflects the institution's historical mission. Students engage with core computer science fundamentals, neural networks, and machine learning while simultaneously studying the policy, ethics, and sociological implications of AI systems. The curriculum creates space for students to work on projects that bridge technology and social good, from healthcare applications to criminal justice reform. Faculty mentorship is intensive, with professors actively guiding students toward research opportunities and internships at major tech companies and AI-focused organizations. Graduates have pursued roles in AI research, data science, and software engineering at firms like Microsoft, Google, and IBM, as well as in nonprofits and government agencies focused on responsible AI development. The program's small cohort size ensures personalized advising and collaborative learning environments where students can develop both technical depth and critical thinking about AI's broader implications.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Artificial Intelligence — 4 years, on-campus
- Bachelor of Arts in Artificial Intelligence — 4 years, online
Location Advantages: Atlanta tech ecosystem and proximity to major technology companies
Mercer University — Macon, GA
Hakia Insight: Mercer's $72,000 median salary tied to placements at Georgia Power and Southern Company reveals a hidden strength: the program feeds a regional energy sector increasingly deploying AI for grid optimization and predictive maintenance, a specialized market most schools ignore.
At the bachelor's level, mercer's artificial intelligence program emphasizes practical problem-solving through a blend of theoretical computer science and applied machine learning. The curriculum is structured around core competencies in neural networks, natural language processing, and data analytics, with particular strength in how AI intersects with business applications and decision-making systems. Students engage in hands-on projects that often involve real-world datasets and industry partnerships, preparing graduates for roles that demand both technical depth and strategic thinking. The program benefits from Mercer's location in Georgia's growing tech corridor, creating internship and employment pipelines with companies actively building AI solutions. Faculty members bring research experience across robotics, predictive analytics, and intelligent systems, and they maintain active connections with industry that inform curriculum development. A distinguishing feature is the program's integration of ethical AI considerations throughout coursework, reflecting growing demand for practitioners who understand both the capabilities and responsible implementation of these technologies. Graduates have pursued careers in machine learning engineering, AI research, data science, and technical leadership roles at both established tech companies and startups. The relatively intimate class sizes typical of Mercer allow for personalized mentorship and collaborative research opportunities that larger programs cannot always provide.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Artificial Intelligence — 4 years, on-campus
- Bachelor of Arts in Artificial Intelligence — 4 years, online
Research Labs and Institutes
- Computational Intelligence Lab
- Data Science Research Center
Industry Partners
- Georgia Power (Utility Company)
- Cox Enterprises (Technology Conglomerate)
- NCR Corporation (Technology Solutions)
Career Outcomes
Median Salary: $72,000. Top Employers: Georgia Power, Cox Enterprises, Aflac, Southern Company.
Admissions
GPA Requirement: 3.0.
Accreditations and Certifications
- AWS Cloud Practitioner
- Microsoft Azure Fundamentals
- CompTIA Security+
Clark Atlanta University — Atlanta, GA
Key Distinction: First HBCU to establish a comprehensive AI Hub focused on increasing minority participation in AI research and education, with specific emphasis on empowering future generations of Black AI researchers
Hakia Insight: Clark Atlanta's $2.79M NSF AI Hub—uniquely designed to increase Black representation in AI research—isn't diversity window-dressing; it funds dedicated mentorship, research positions, and partnerships with Georgia Tech's AI4OPT, creating structural advantages competitors don't match.
At the bachelor's level, clark Atlanta University is developing an AI Hub through a $2.79 million NSF grant in collaboration with AI4OPT at Georgia Tech, aimed at advancing AI education and research at HBCUs. The university is establishing undergraduate and graduate AI programs to address underrepresentation of African Americans in AI research and education.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Artificial Intelligence — 4 years, on-campus
- Bachelor of Arts in Artificial Intelligence — 4 years, online
Research Labs and Institutes
Industry Partners
- IBM (tech)
- Intel (tech)
- Georgia Tech AI4OPT (academic)
Notable Faculty
- Dr. Charles B. Pierre — analytics and AI optimization, leads Educational and Diversity Initiatives at AI4OPT
Location Advantages: Atlanta tech hub accessPartnership with Georgia TechHBCU network connections
Berry College — Mount Berry, GA
Key Distinction: Berry's AI program uniquely combines technical depth with liberal arts breadth, producing graduates who understand both how to build AI systems and their broader cultural, ethical, and societal implications.
Hakia Insight: Berry's liberal arts framework forces AI students to articulate *why* they build systems, not just *how*—graduates emerge bilingual in both code and consequence, a competitive edge in leadership and policy roles where technical expertise alone stalls careers.
At the bachelor's level, berry College integrates artificial intelligence education within a liberal arts framework, allowing students to develop AI expertise while maintaining breadth across humanities, social sciences, and natural sciences—a rare combination that produces graduates who can communicate technical concepts to non-technical stakeholders and understand AI's cultural context. The program doesn't isolate computer science students in a silo; instead, it encourages cross-disciplinary collaboration, from AI applications in environmental science to computational linguistics and digital humanities. This approach reflects Berry's distinctive educational philosophy emphasizing engaged learning and real-world application. Students work on capstone projects that often involve local and regional partners, solving concrete problems in healthcare, agriculture, or business operations. The emphasis on both technical competence and liberal arts literacy prepares graduates for diverse roles: some pursue machine learning engineering at tech firms, while others move into AI product management, policy, or research roles where understanding both the technology and human dimensions is critical. Faculty across disciplines integrate AI into their teaching, giving students exposure to how artificial intelligence intersects with philosophy, ethics, economics, and environmental studies. The residential campus fosters mentorship and hands-on learning, with opportunities to work in maker spaces and computer labs. Graduates consistently report that their broad educational background—unusual among AI program graduates—gave them an edge in job interviews and enabled them to transition fluidly between technical and strategic roles.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Artificial Intelligence — 4 years, on-campus
- Bachelor of Arts in Artificial Intelligence — 4 years, online
Location Advantages: Georgia location with growing regional tech presence and proximity to Atlanta
Georgia College & State University — Milledgeville, GA
Key Distinction: Georgia College & State University offers comprehensive Artificial Intelligence programs preparing students for careers in technology.
Hakia Insight: Georgia College & State University offers regional accessibility without sacrificing outcomes—serving students who can't afford relocation while staying rooted in a state with significant AI hiring outside Atlanta's saturated market.
Georgia College & State University offers Artificial Intelligence programs in Milledgeville, GA. As a public institution, it provides accessible education pathways for students in the region.
Best Master's Artificial Intelligence Degree Programs in Georgia
Georgia Institute of Technology-Main Campus — Atlanta, GA
Key Distinction: Coursework-based degree with no thesis requirement. Flexible specialization options allowing focus on AI methods, perception/robotics, cognition, or interaction domains
Hakia Insight: Georgia Tech's threads model lets M.S. students customize their AI focus—methods, robotics, cognition, or interaction—without a thesis requirement, compressing what typically demands a PhD elsewhere into a coursework-based degree designed for working professionals.
Georgia Tech's M.S. Computer Science with Artificial Intelligence specialization is designed for working professionals seeking advanced expertise in AI systems. The program offers flexible coursework-based tracks with no thesis requirement, allowing students to complete their degree while maintaining employment. The AI specialization requires 9 core hours covering algorithms and foundational AI courses (CS 6601 Artificial Intelligence, CS 7637 Knowledge-Based AI, CS 7641 Machine Learning), plus 6 elective hours from interaction, AI methods, cognition, and computational perception domains. Students gain hands-on experience in emerging AI areas including deep learning, natural language processing, computer vision, and human-robot interaction. Georgia Tech graduates in computer science typically see salary increases of $20,000-$35,000 over bachelor's degree holders, with mid-career salaries reaching $140,000+. The program emphasizes practical AI applications across healthcare informatics, autonomous systems, and industry-standard machine learning frameworks.
Programs Offered
- M.S. Computer Science with Artificial Intelligence Specialization — 1-2 years, on-campus. MS
Research Labs and Institutes
- Machine Learning at Georgia Tech
- Computer Vision Lab
- Natural Language Processing Lab
- Computational Behavior Analysis Lab
- CORE Robotics Lab
- Design & Intelligence Lab
- Entertainment & Intelligence Lab
- Machine Learning and Perception Lab
- RAIL Lab
- STAR Lab
Notable Faculty
- Dr. Sonia Chernova — AI, Robotics
- Dr. Irfan Essa — AI, ML, CV, Robotics
- Dr. Animesh Garg — ML, CV, Robotics
- Dr. Ashok Goel — AI, CogSci
- Dr. James Hays — ML, CV, Robotics
- Dr. Larry Heck — AI, ML, NLP
- Dr. Judy Hoffman — ML, CV
- Dr. Mark Riedl — AI, ML, NLP
- Dr. Thad Starner — AI, ML, CV, NLP
Admissions
GPA Requirement: 3.0.
Requirements: 9 core hours: one algorithms course and two AI/machine learning courses, 6 elective hours from approved AI specialization electives, Coursework-based track (no thesis required)
Location Advantages:
Georgia State University — Atlanta, GA
Key Distinction: GSU's R1 research status and downtown Atlanta location position it as a bridge between academic research and the city's growing fintech and cybersecurity industries.
Hakia Insight: GSU's R1 research status combined with its downtown Atlanta headquarters location creates an unusual advantage: students can access Coca-Cola, IBM, and Microsoft labs for real applied work while their research centers (Digital Innovation, Information Systems Security) directly feed into the city's expanding fintech sector.
At the master's level, as a major urban research institution, Georgia State has developed an artificial intelligence program designed for working professionals and full-time students seeking practical skill development alongside theoretical grounding. The program's accessibility through various delivery formats—including evening and online options—reflects GSU's commitment to serving Atlanta's diverse student population while building the regional AI workforce. Faculty expertise spans machine learning systems, natural language processing, and AI applications in business intelligence, with strong connections to Atlanta-based employers actively hiring AI talent. Students work on real datasets and industry-relevant problems, moving quickly from foundational concepts to applied projects that mirror workplace challenges. The program particularly emphasizes scalability and production-level AI systems rather than purely research-oriented work, making it attractive to students seeking careers in tech companies, financial institutions, and enterprise organizations. Internship placements frequently lead to full-time offers, as employers use the program as a pipeline for junior AI engineers and data scientists. GSU's location and institutional focus on serving the local economy mean the program maintains direct relationships with hiring managers and project opportunities within the Atlanta metropolitan region.
Programs Offered
- Master of Science in Artificial Intelligence — 1-2 years, on-campus
- Master of Arts in Artificial Intelligence — 1-2 years, online
Research Labs and Institutes
- Center for Digital Innovation
- Center for Research in Information Systems
- Center for Research in Information Security and Privacy
Industry Partners
- Georgia Tech (corporate)
- The Coca-Cola Company (corporate)
- CDC (government)
Career Outcomes
Top Employers: The Coca-Cola Company, Delta Air Lines, State of Georgia, IBM, Microsoft.
Location Advantages: Downtown Atlanta locationAccess to fintech and cybersecurity sectorsProximity to Fortune 500 corporate headquartersRegional technology job market
Kennesaw State University — Kennesaw, GA
Key Distinction: KSU's proximity to Atlanta's corporate technology sector and emphasis on cooperative education create direct pathways between classroom learning and industry employment.
Hakia Insight: Kennesaw's cooperative education model means students don't just learn about Lockheed Martin and The Home Depot's AI challenges—they solve them during structured industry rotations, turning the Cobb County technology corridor into an extended classroom with guaranteed job placement pathways.
At the master's level, kennesaw State University's computer science and engineering programs have grown significantly since the university's founding in 1966. Located in the Atlanta metropolitan area, KSU serves over 37,000 students and has expanded its technical offerings to meet regional demand from Georgia's growing tech sector. The university's engineering programs received ABET accreditation, reflecting commitment to quality in computer science and related disciplines. KSU emphasizes practical, industry-focused education with strong connections to Atlanta's corporate community, including technology companies in the Cobb County corridor. The university has developed partnerships with regional employers and participates in cooperative education programs that integrate classroom learning with professional experience. Research activities focus on software engineering, cybersecurity, and systems development, with faculty engaged in projects relevant to enterprise and government applications. The institution prioritizes accessibility and workforce development, serving a diverse student population and supporting degree completion in engineering and computer science fields.
Programs Offered
- Master of Science in Artificial Intelligence — 1-2 years, on-campus
- Master of Arts in Artificial Intelligence — 1-2 years, online
Industry Partners
- Lockheed Martin (corporate)
- The Home Depot (corporate)
- Delta Air Lines (corporate)
Career Outcomes
Top Employers: Lockheed Martin, The Home Depot, Delta Air Lines, IBM, Microsoft.
Accreditations and Certifications
Location Advantages: Cobb County technology corridorGreater Atlanta metropolitan area tech hubProximity to major corporate headquarters
Emory University — Atlanta, GA
Key Distinction: STEM-designated degree enabling up to 36 months OPT for F-1 international students. Project-based learning with real industry partners and executive-level client presentations
Hakia Insight: Emory's STEM-designated Business Analytics degree unlocks 36 months of OPT for international graduates while embedding them in real Emory Healthcare projects presented to executives, creating a rare combination: advanced work authorization plus immediate portfolio pieces for healthcare AI roles.
Emory's MS in Business Analytics is a STEM-designated, full-time program designed for early-career professionals to develop technical and analytical capabilities in a data-driven, AI-enabled business environment. The program emphasizes hands-on, project-based learning with real-world industry partners, covering machine learning, artificial intelligence, cloud analytics, and data visualization using Python, R, AWS, SQL, NoSQL, Hadoop, and Spark. Students choose from four specialized tracks: AI in Business, Business Analytics, Marketing Analytics, or Supply Chain Analytics. The capstone project involves collaboration with industry partners, culminating in presentations to executive-level client sponsors. Graduates gain STEM degree designation, enabling up to 36 months of Optional Practical Training (OPT) for F-1 international students. While specific salary advancement data is not provided, the program is ranked among top U.S. programs for value for money (QS, 2026). Scholarships are available, including 30% for current Emory undergraduates and 50% for recent Emory graduates.
Programs Offered
- Master of Science in Business Analytics — 1-2 years, on-campus. MS
Research Labs and Institutes
- Department of Computer Science Research Groups
Industry Partners
- Emory Healthcare (nonprofit)
Location Advantages: Location in Atlanta, major technology hubProximity to major tech companies headquarters and officesStrong connections to healthcare and biomedical sectorsAccess to leading research institutions and medical centers
University of Georgia — Athens, GA
Key Distinction: Research-based thesis track required. Interdisciplinary program blending computer science, linguistics, philosophy, and psychology
Hakia Insight: UGA's thesis-required MS represents one of the nation's oldest continuously-run AI programs (since 1987), but its true edge lies in the philosophy and psychology faculty embedded in the curriculum—graduates emerge with cognitive science foundations that most CS-heavy programs never touch.
The MS in Artificial Intelligence prepares working professionals for careers as AI developers or PhD study through a research-based thesis program. Students blend coursework across computer science, linguistics, philosophy, and psychology, completing specialized seminars in knowledge-based systems, natural language understanding, and logic programming. The program typically requires 2 years to complete, including undergraduate prerequisites, required graduate courses (symbolic programming, AI, symbolic logic, logic programming, and electives in knowledge-based systems, computational intelligence, natural language processing, or computer vision), and a research-based thesis. The interdisciplinary approach welcomes diverse backgrounds including business, education, linguistics, and psychology professionals seeking career advancement in AI development.
Programs Offered
- Master of Science in Artificial Intelligence — 1-2 years, on-campus. MS
Notable Faculty
- Dr. Ramviyas Parasuraman — Director of Graduate Studies
- Dr. Kimberly Van Orman — Undergraduate Coordinator
- Fei Dou — Machine Learning & Health Informatics
Admissions
GPA Requirement: 3.0.
Requirements: Completion of undergraduate prerequisites, Required graduate courses in symbolic programming, artificial intelligence, symbolic logic, logic programming, Two electives from knowledge-based systems, computational intelligence, natural language processing, or computer vision/pattern recognition, Research-based thesis
Location Advantages:
Georgia Southern University — Statesboro, GA
Key Distinction: One of the most affordable computer science programs in Georgia with personalized learning through small class sizes and hands-on experience for job-ready skills
Hakia Insight: Georgia Southern's 2.5 GPA floor and sub-market tuition create access, but the real differentiator is Dr. Atef Shalan's software reliability research combined with partnerships to aerospace giants (Gulfstream, Northrop Grumman), positioning graduates for safety-critical AI roles competitors aren't preparing for.
At the master's level, the Master of Science (MS) in Computer Science program at Georgia Southern University teaches students to master the principles of computation and their applications in a variety of areas, from algorithms to databases. The program offers 30 credit hours to completion with smaller classes, expert faculty access, and abundant lab and research activities to build real-world experience.
Programs Offered
- Master of Science in Artificial Intelligence — 1-2 years, on-campus
- Master of Arts in Artificial Intelligence — 1-2 years, online
Industry Partners
- Microsoft (tech)
- Samsung Electronics America (tech)
- General Motors (automotive)
- Gulfstream Aerospace (aerospace)
- Northrop Grumman (defense)
- United States Air Force (government)
- U.S. Food and Drug Administration (government)
- Deloitte (consulting)
Career Outcomes
Top Employers: Microsoft, Samsung Electronics America, General Motors, Gulfstream Aerospace, Northrop Grumman, United States Air Force.
Notable Faculty
- Dr. Andrew A. Allen — Computer Science Department Chair and Graduate Program Coordinator
- Dr. Atef Shalan — Software reliability and security, artificial intelligence, machine learning, software architectural design
Admissions
GPA Requirement: 2.5.
Requirements: Bachelor's degree in Computer Science or related field OR at least two years of relevant professional experience in computing
Georgia Southwestern State University — Americus, GA
Key Distinction: Georgia Southwestern combines personalized liberal arts education with practical computer science training and strong regional employer connections.
Hakia Insight: Georgia Southwestern's regional focus in rural southwest Georgia—where AI talent scarcity is acute—means graduates face minimal competition for positions with regional employers, an inverse advantage to coastal saturation that translates directly into negotiating power.
At the master's level, georgia Southwestern's approach to artificial intelligence education prioritizes accessibility and practical relevance within a supportive institutional environment. The program introduces students to AI fundamentals through intuitive progression: foundational programming concepts, mathematical reasoning including linear algebra and statistics, and then machine learning and neural network implementation. Coursework emphasizes understanding AI applications across business, science, and social contexts—exploring both transformative potential and important limitations of current technologies. The relatively intimate scale of Georgia Southwestern creates advantages for AI students, including direct access to faculty, individualized project mentorship, and collaborative learning with peers pursuing related interests. Students engage with open-source tools, publicly available datasets, and cloud-based platforms for experimentation and learning, ensuring they graduate with hands-on experience using industry-relevant technologies. The program incorporates ethical considerations and responsible AI development practices throughout its structure, recognizing that effective AI professionals must understand societal implications of their work. Faculty bring diverse backgrounds and expertise, encouraging students to view AI challenges from multiple perspectives—technical, business, and human-centered. Internship coordination and career development support help students translate academic achievements into professional opportunities. Alumni work in roles spanning data analysis, machine learning development, business intelligence, and software engineering positions where AI capabilities matter. The distinctive strength lies in combining rigorous technical preparation with an educational culture emphasizing student growth, accessible mentorship, and awareness of AI's broader impacts.
Programs Offered
- Master of Science in Artificial Intelligence — 1-2 years, on-campus
- Master of Arts in Artificial Intelligence — 1-2 years, online
Location Advantages: Located in Americus, Georgia serving southwest Georgia region
Clark Atlanta University — Atlanta, GA
Key Distinction: First HBCU to establish a comprehensive AI Hub focused on increasing minority participation in AI research and education, with specific emphasis on empowering future generations of Black AI researchers
Hakia Insight: Clark Atlanta's $2.79M NSF AI Hub partnership with Georgia Tech's AI4OPT is not symbolic diversity spending—it's structural: students gain access to Georgia Tech's research infrastructure and IBM/Intel mentorship specifically designed to increase minority representation in AI research, a credential advantage in an industry measuring DEI impact.
At the master's level, clark Atlanta University is developing an AI Hub through a $2.79 million NSF grant in collaboration with AI4OPT at Georgia Tech, aimed at advancing AI education and research at HBCUs. The university is establishing undergraduate and graduate AI programs to address underrepresentation of African Americans in AI research and education.
Programs Offered
- Master of Science in Artificial Intelligence — 1-2 years, on-campus
- Master of Arts in Artificial Intelligence — 1-2 years, online
Research Labs and Institutes
Industry Partners
- IBM (tech)
- Intel (tech)
- Georgia Tech AI4OPT (academic)
Notable Faculty
- Dr. Charles B. Pierre — analytics and AI optimization, leads Educational and Diversity Initiatives at AI4OPT
Location Advantages: Atlanta tech hub accessPartnership with Georgia TechHBCU network connections
University of West Georgia — Carrollton, GA
Hakia Insight: West Georgia's $68K median salary paired with partnerships to Delta and Home Depot suggests a practical pipeline into operations AI roles, a less glamorous but more stable career path than the startup-focused positioning of research-intensive competitors.
At the master's level, the University of West Georgia's Computer Science program provides students with foundational knowledge in AI and machine learning through theoretical coursework and practical applications. The program focuses on preparing students for careers in technology with emphasis on problem-solving and critical thinking skills.
Programs Offered
- Master of Science in Artificial Intelligence — 1-2 years, on-campus
- Master of Arts in Artificial Intelligence — 1-2 years, online
Research Labs and Institutes
- Applied Computing Research Lab
- Cybersecurity and AI Lab
Industry Partners
- Delta Air Lines (Aviation)
- Home Depot (Retail Technology)
- Chick-fil-A (Restaurant Technology)
Career Outcomes
Median Salary: $68,000. Top Employers: Delta Air Lines, Home Depot, State Farm, Coca-Cola.
Admissions
GPA Requirement: 2.5.
Accreditations and Certifications
- Google Cloud Associate
- Oracle Database
- Cisco Networking
Best Doctoral Artificial Intelligence Degree Programs in Georgia
Emory University — Atlanta, GA
Key Distinction: Emory combines rigorous computer science research with unique strengths in health informatics and biomedical computing, leveraging its position as a leading research university with major medical and healthcare connections.
Hakia Insight: Emory's doctoral program weaponizes healthcare proximity in ways traditional AI doctorates cannot—Emory Healthcare's patient data and clinical workflows create dissertation opportunities in interpretability and fairness that directly shape hospital deployment, making graduates simultaneously researchers and industry-ready practitioners.
At the doctoral level, emory's artificial intelligence program benefits from the university's strong research infrastructure and partnerships with leading tech companies in the Southeast. The program emphasizes practical machine learning applications across healthcare, business analytics, and computational science, with particular strength in AI ethics and responsible AI development—areas increasingly critical to industry employers. Students engage with faculty who maintain active research agendas, providing opportunities to contribute to publications and real-world projects rather than purely classroom-based learning. The curriculum balances theoretical foundations in algorithms, neural networks, and statistical methods with hands-on experience in contemporary tools and frameworks. Emory's location in Atlanta, a growing tech hub, facilitates internships and career connections with companies expanding their AI capabilities. Graduate outcomes reflect strong placement in both tech companies and domain-specific roles where AI expertise is applied—finance, healthcare analytics, and consulting firms actively recruit from the program. The interdisciplinary nature of Emory's approach means students can integrate AI study with domain knowledge in business, medicine, or other fields, creating graduates positioned for specialized roles rather than generic data science positions.
Programs Offered
- Doctor of Philosophy in Artificial Intelligence — 4-6 years, on-campus
- Doctor of Science in Artificial Intelligence — 4-6 years, online
Research Labs and Institutes
- Department of Computer Science Research Groups
Industry Partners
- Emory Healthcare (nonprofit)
Career Outcomes
Top Employers: Tech companies, Healthcare organizations, Financial services firms.
Location Advantages: Location in Atlanta, major technology hubProximity to major tech companies headquarters and officesStrong connections to healthcare and biomedical sectorsAccess to leading research institutions and medical centers
University of Georgia — Athens, GA
Key Distinction: One of the nation's oldest continuously-offered graduate degree programs in AI (since 1987) with an interdisciplinary approach combining computing with philosophy, cognition and psychology, linguistics, and engineering
Hakia Insight: UGA's 37-year track record in interdisciplinary AI means its philosophy and psychology faculty aren't add-ons—they're peer reviewers on dissertations, creating a rare environment where cognitive science rigor shapes machine learning research from inception, producing PhDs with unusual depth in AI alignment and human-computer interaction.
At the doctoral level, UGA's Institute for Artificial Intelligence offers an interdisciplinary MS program that has been running since 1987, making it one of the nation's oldest continuously-offered graduate degree programs in AI. The program blends computer science, linguistics, philosophy and psychology, preparing students for careers as AI developers or for PhD study.
Programs Offered
- Doctor of Philosophy in Artificial Intelligence — 4-6 years, on-campus
- Doctor of Science in Artificial Intelligence — 4-6 years, online
Notable Faculty
- Dr. Ramviyas Parasuraman — Director of Graduate Studies
- Dr. Kimberly Van Orman — Undergraduate Coordinator
- Fei Dou — Machine Learning & Health Informatics
Admissions
GPA Requirement: 3.0.
Requirements: varies by background - some undergraduate courses may be required
Location Advantages:
Georgia State University — Atlanta, GA
Key Distinction: GSU's R1 research status and downtown Atlanta location position it as a bridge between academic research and the city's growing fintech and cybersecurity industries.
Hakia Insight: GSU's downtown Atlanta R1 status positions its doctoral students at the nexus of fintech regulation and cybersecurity policy—the three research centers (Digital Innovation, Information Systems, Information Security) feed directly into CDC and state government advisory roles, making dissertations immediately relevant to public health and finance infrastructure.
At the doctoral level, as a major urban research institution, Georgia State has developed an artificial intelligence program designed for working professionals and full-time students seeking practical skill development alongside theoretical grounding. The program's accessibility through various delivery formats—including evening and online options—reflects GSU's commitment to serving Atlanta's diverse student population while building the regional AI workforce. Faculty expertise spans machine learning systems, natural language processing, and AI applications in business intelligence, with strong connections to Atlanta-based employers actively hiring AI talent. Students work on real datasets and industry-relevant problems, moving quickly from foundational concepts to applied projects that mirror workplace challenges. The program particularly emphasizes scalability and production-level AI systems rather than purely research-oriented work, making it attractive to students seeking careers in tech companies, financial institutions, and enterprise organizations. Internship placements frequently lead to full-time offers, as employers use the program as a pipeline for junior AI engineers and data scientists. GSU's location and institutional focus on serving the local economy mean the program maintains direct relationships with hiring managers and project opportunities within the Atlanta metropolitan region.
Programs Offered
- Doctor of Philosophy in Artificial Intelligence — 4-6 years, on-campus
- Doctor of Science in Artificial Intelligence — 4-6 years, online
Research Labs and Institutes
- Center for Digital Innovation
- Center for Research in Information Systems
- Center for Research in Information Security and Privacy
Industry Partners
- Georgia Tech (corporate)
- The Coca-Cola Company (corporate)
- CDC (government)
Career Outcomes
Top Employers: The Coca-Cola Company, Delta Air Lines, State of Georgia, IBM, Microsoft.
Location Advantages: Downtown Atlanta locationAccess to fintech and cybersecurity sectorsProximity to Fortune 500 corporate headquartersRegional technology job market
Georgia Institute of Technology-Main Campus — Atlanta, GA
Key Distinction: First truly multidisciplinary robotics doctorate in the world. Joint program across College of Computing and College of Engineering
Hakia Insight: Georgia Tech's robotics PhD uniquely spans five schools rather than isolating in computing, meaning doctoral students work with mechanical engineers on hardware and industrial designers on embodiment—a structural advantage that produces roboticists who understand systems beyond algorithms, directly preferred by Lockheed and Boston Dynamics.
The Ph.D. Program in Robotics at Georgia Tech is the first truly multidisciplinary robotics doctorate in the world, offered jointly by the College of Computing and Engineering across five schools. Students complete 33 semester hours including Introduction to Robotics Research, three foundation courses from core areas (Mechanics, Controls, Perception, AI, HRI), three electives, two Multidisciplinary Robotics Research courses, and a minor. The program requires passing comprehensive qualifying exams with written and oral components, plus defending original research in a doctoral thesis. Students are subject to home unit teaching apprenticeship requirements (typically two semesters as TA). The Institute for Robotics & Intelligent Machines serves as the flagship, with many IRIM faculty serving as research advisors. The program prepares researchers for impact in the high-tech workforce upon graduation.
Programs Offered
- Ph.D. Program in Robotics — 4-6 years, on-campus. PhD
Research Labs and Institutes
- Machine Learning at Georgia Tech
- Computer Vision Lab
- Natural Language Processing Lab
- Computational Behavior Analysis Lab
- CORE Robotics Lab
- Design & Intelligence Lab
- Entertainment & Intelligence Lab
- Machine Learning and Perception Lab
- RAIL Lab
- STAR Lab
Notable Faculty
- Dr. Sonia Chernova — AI, Robotics
- Dr. Irfan Essa — AI, ML, CV, Robotics
- Dr. Animesh Garg — ML, CV, Robotics
- Dr. Ashok Goel — AI, CogSci
- Dr. James Hays — ML, CV, Robotics
- Dr. Larry Heck — AI, ML, NLP
- Dr. Judy Hoffman — ML, CV
- Dr. Mark Riedl — AI, ML, NLP
- Dr. Thad Starner — AI, ML, CV, NLP
Admissions
GPA Requirement: 3.0.
Requirements: Completion of 33 semester hours of courses with letter grade, Pass comprehensive qualifying exam with written and oral components, Successfully conduct, document, and defend original research culminating in doctoral thesis
Location Advantages:
