🥇
$61,990
Tuition/yr
96%
Grad rate
95.4
Hakia Score
On this page
Reviewed by Taylor Rupe, Founder & EditorSee methodology
Key Takeaways
Best artificial intelligence degree programs: U of Massachusetts-Amherst, Massachusetts Institute o..., Tufts
Ranked by graduation rates, program outcomes, and institutional quality
Tuition ranges from $576 to $66,650/year
Bunker Hill Community Col... offers the most affordable option at $576/yr
Artificial Intelligence degree programs available: 10 associate's, 16 master's, 9 doctoral in Massachusetts
From community college pathways to advanced research degrees
11 online artificial intelligence degree programs in Massachusetts
Flexible scheduling for working professionals
Massachusetts community college transfer can save 40-60% on total degree costs
10 associate's programs provide transfer pathways to bachelor's degrees
Education Commission of the States
Major employers: Amazon, Google, HubSpot, Wayfair
Tech hubs in Boston and Cambridge
Hakia Research 2026
Artificial Intelligence degree programs near 75+ cities across Massachusetts
Search by city to find programs within 200 miles of your location
Updated July 13, 2026
How we ranked Massachusetts Artificial Intelligence programs
We rank 70 accredited artificial intelligence programs in Massachusetts using IPEDS 2024 institutional data, BLS OEWS 2024 state salary data, and College Scorecard outcomes. A 4-factor weighted composite is normalized to a 0–100 score. Schools cannot pay for placement; rankings are produced algorithmically.
Program completions (35%)Graduation rate (25%)Selectivity (20%)Career outcomes (20%)
See full methodologyAre Artificial Intelligence Degree Programs in Massachusetts Worth It?
Answer
$128,640
Yes. The best artificial intelligence degree programs in Massachusetts deliver strong ROI, graduates earn $128,640 median salary with +22% job growth through 2032. In-state tuition averages $35,288/year.
Source: BLS OEWS May 2024
Artificial Intelligence Degree Rankings in Massachusetts
Compare the top-ranked Artificial Intelligence programs in Massachusetts by degree level. Tuition, graduation rate, and Hakia Score for every accredited program.
Best Bachelor's Artificial Intelligence Programs in Massachusetts
1
Programs ranked
$61,990
Avg tuition/yr
96%
Avg grad rate
Program Landscape
Massachusetts ranks among the nation's top destinations for artificial intelligence education, with 35 accredited bachelor's degree programs across 7 public and 28 private institutions. The highest-ranked programs are U of Massachusetts-Amherst, Massachusetts Institute o..., Tufts, recognized for academic excellence, research opportunities, and strong industry connections.
Career Outcomes
Graduates from Massachusetts artificial intelligence programs earn a median salary of $109,344, 11% above the national average. The state's robust technology sector, anchored by the Boston, Cambridge, Worcester metropolitan areas, provides abundant internship and employment opportunities with companies including Amazon, Google, HubSpot.
Costs & Value
Tuition ranges from $910 to $66,650 annually, with an average of $42,907/yr. Top programs maintain graduation rates above 92%, with the highest reaching 99%. Many programs hold ABET accreditation, the gold standard for computing education, ensuring curriculum meets rigorous industry standards.
Curriculum & Specializations
Students can choose from specializations including software engineering, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, data science, and systems architecture. Strong industry partnerships provide access to co-op programs, capstone projects with real companies, and direct recruiting pipelines to Massachusetts's leading technology employers. For students seeking artificial intelligence degrees in Massachusetts, these top-ranked artificial intelligence schools offer the strongest combination of academic rigor and career preparation.
Best Master's Artificial Intelligence Programs in Massachusetts
4
Programs ranked
$65,183
Avg tuition/yr
91%
Avg grad rate
Program Landscape
Massachusetts offers 16 master's degree programs in artificial intelligence, designed for professionals seeking to advance into senior engineering, technical leadership, and specialized roles. The top programs, U of Massachusetts-Amherst, Massachusetts Institute o..., Boston, combine advanced technical training with research opportunities and leadership development.
Career Outcomes
Master's graduates in Massachusetts earn a median salary of $128,640, approximately 20-30% higher than bachelor's degree holders. The concentration of technology companies in Boston, Cambridge, Worcester creates strong demand for graduate-level talent, with Amazon, Google, HubSpot actively recruiting from these programs.
Costs & Value
Program formats include traditional full-time study (typically 2 years), part-time options for working professionals (2-3 years), and accelerated tracks. Tuition averages $41,811/yr, with many employers offering tuition reimbursement for graduate education. Some programs offer thesis and non-thesis tracks, allowing students to focus on research or professional development based on their career goals.
Curriculum & Specializations
Curriculum covers advanced topics including machine learning, distributed systems, software architecture, and technical management. Many programs include practicum experiences, industry capstone projects, or consulting engagements that provide real-world application of advanced concepts. Among Massachusetts's artificial intelligence schools at the graduate level, these programs stand out for both academic quality and career outcomes.
🥇
$61,990
Tuition/yr
96%
Grad rate
90.8
Hakia Score
🥉
$66,670
Tuition/yr
89%
Grad rate
87.7
Hakia Score
Artificial Intelligence Degree Costs & Tuition in Massachusetts
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average in-state tuition | $35,288/year |
| Average out-of-state tuition | $88,220/year |
| Community college tuition | $8,822/year |
| 4-year savings for residents | $211,728 |
| 2+2 transfer pathway savings | $52,932 |
Source: IPEDS 2024
Financial Aid & Scholarships for Artificial Intelligence Students in Massachusetts
State Aid Programs
Massachusetts offers substantial state-funded financial aid beyond federal programs. The MASSGrant program provides need-based aid to Massachusetts residents attending public or independent colleges (OSFA MASSGrant). Awards vary by institution type and demonstrated financial need. The Massachusetts High Demand Scholarship Program supports students in STEM fields (High Demand Scholarship):
- Full-time at universities: Up to $10,000/year
- Part-time at universities: Up to $5,000/year
- Community colleges: Up to $5,000/year full-time
- Eligibility: 3.0+ GPA, enrollment in approved STEM/high-demand program, Massachusetts resident Additional financial aid options:
- Federal Pell Grant: Up to $7,395 for 2024-25 (apply via FAFSA)
- Massachusetts No Interest Loan (NIL): Need-based loan with 0% interest while enrolled
- Federal student loans: Subsidized and unsubsidized options
- Institutional scholarships: Many universities offer merit and need-based aid, apply by November-December priority deadlines FAFSA deadline is June 30, 2025 for the 2025-2026 academic year. Students unable to complete FAFSA due to citizenship status can use the Massachusetts Application for State Financial Aid (MASFA). Priority deadline for MASFA is February 15, 2025.
Artificial Intelligence Degree ROI Calculator, Massachusetts
Use our interactive ROI calculator to estimate your return on investment for a artificial intelligence degree in Massachusetts. Enter your expected tuition costs, financial aid, and career goals to see projected payback periods and lifetime earnings. The calculator uses current salary data from BLS and tuition data from IPEDS to provide accurate estimates.
Artificial Intelligence Degree ROI Calculator
Estimate your return on investment for a artificial intelligence degree
Leave blank to use average cost for selected program type
20 years
10 years20 years30 years
20-Year ROI
+1273%
Net gain divided by total investment. ROI above 200% is considered excellent for education investments.
Net Gain
$2,355,419
Your additional lifetime earnings with this degree vs. working without one, minus the total investment.
Break-Even
5 years
Years until your cumulative earnings exceed total investment. Shorter programs often break even faster due to lower opportunity cost.
COL-Adjusted Salary
$112,903
Your starting salary adjusted for local cost of living. This shows real purchasing power compared to a $100K national baseline.
Why does break-even change with program type? Your "total investment" includes both tuition AND opportunity cost (foregone earnings while in school). A 4-year full-time public university (in-state) means 4 years of not earning a salary ($140,000 in opportunity cost). Shorter full-time programs may have higher tuition but lower total investment because you return to the workforce sooner.
Detailed Breakdown
How we calculate your degree ROI using real salary data
Total Investment$185,000
Tuition plus opportunity cost (earnings you miss while in school)
Program Cost (Tuition)$45,000
Direct cost of the degree program
Opportunity Cost$140,000
4 years × $35K/year foregone salary while studying full-time
20-Year Earnings (with degree)$3,390,827
Projected career earnings starting after graduation, with salary growth
20-Year Earnings (without degree)$850,408
What you'd earn working at $35K/year with 2% annual growth
Starting Salary (Boston, MA)$175,000
Median salary for this role in your selected location (BLS 2024)
Annualized Return6.1%
Your investment's compound annual growth rate (similar to stock market returns)
Data sources: BLS OEWS May 2024, IPEDS 2024. Calculations use median salaries, 3% discount rate, and assume salary growth declines from 6% to 2% over career. Individual results will vary. | Powered by Hakia.com
Artificial Intelligence Salaries by Metro Area
Median annual salary in Massachusetts metro areas
Boston$142K
Cambridge$135K
Worcester$129K
View data table
| Category | Value |
|---|---|
| Boston | $142K |
| Cambridge | $135K |
| Worcester | $129K |
Source: BLS OEWS May 2024
Hakia.com
Top Employers Hiring Artificial Intelligence Graduates in Massachusetts
Find artificial intelligence jobs in Massachusetts. These major employers across Massachusetts metro areas are actively hiring artificial intelligence degree holders. Click employer names to view current job openings.
Artificial Intelligence Jobs in Boston/Cambridge
MABoston/Cambridge is a biotech and AI research hub, anchored by MIT, Harvard, and major tech company R&D centers.
Nearby cities: Cambridge, Somerville, Waltham, Burlington, Quincy
Transfer Pathways for Artificial Intelligence Degrees in Massachusetts
State Transfer System
MassTransfer provides guaranteed pathways from community colleges to public universities (MassTransfer). The program enables students to start at any of Massachusetts' 15 community colleges and transfer to state universities or UMass campuses with guaranteed credit transfer and tuition discounts. Key MassTransfer benefits:
- A2B Pathways: Associate-to-Bachelor's mapped pathways ensure courses transfer and count toward specific degrees
- Gen Ed Foundation: 34 credits of general education transfer as a complete block
- Commonwealth Commitment: Full-time students with 3.0+ GPA receive additional tuition rebates
- Guaranteed admission: Complete an associate degree with B average for guaranteed admission to state universities Transfer articulation agreements also exist with private institutions. Bristol Community College maintains transfer agreements with numerous private and public universities, mapping specific courses to degree requirements (Bristol CC Transfer Agreements). Strategic transfer planning: 1. Complete foundational courses at community college 2. Verify course equivalencies using MassTransfer lookup tools 3. Maintain 3.0+ GPA for guaranteed admission 4. Apply by priority deadlines (March for fall admission) 5. Consider associate degrees that map to bachelor's programs Students completing their first two years at community college save $15,000-$25,000 on total degree costs while maintaining clear pathways to UMass and state university programs.
Why Pursue an Artificial Intelligence Degree in Massachusetts?
Industry & Workforce
Massachusetts ranks among the top states for artificial intelligence employment and education, with the Boston-Cambridge metro area recognized as an AI and technology "Star Hub" by Brookings Institution (Brookings AI Economy 2025). The state hosts thousands of technology companies and leads the nation in computing research, with MIT, Harvard, Northeastern, and UMass institutions driving innovation. Massachusetts offers 8+ ABET-accredited computing programs that include artificial intelligence specializations, ensuring graduates meet rigorous national standards (ABET). The salary premium is substantial. Computer and Information Research Scientists earn a median salary of $140,910 nationally, with Massachusetts positions paying 15-25% above national averages (BLS OEWS May 2024). The BLS projects 26% job growth for this occupation from 2024-2034. Entry-level positions in the Boston area start around $100,000-$120,000, while experienced professionals can command significantly higher salaries. The concentration of technology companies, financial services, healthcare/biotech, and research institutions creates exceptional demand. Massachusetts offers unique advantages for artificial intelligence students: The Route 128 technology corridor and Kendall Square in Cambridge house hundreds of tech companies actively recruiting talent. The state's innovation ecosystem, including major employers like Google, Microsoft, Amazon, Fidelity, and hundreds of startups, provides diverse career opportunities. Compare programs in California, Texas, or explore our national artificial intelligence rankings.
Artificial Intelligence Job Growth in Massachusetts
15%
The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects 15% growth for artificial intelligence occupations in Massachusetts through 2024-2034. The median salary stands at $128,640 with 46 accredited programs statewide.
Source: BLS Occupational Outlook
Artificial Intelligence Job Market & Salary Data in Massachusetts
Employment Outlook
Massachusetts offers exceptional career prospects for artificial intelligence graduates. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports strong demand for computer and information research scientists, with employment projected to grow 26% from 2024-2034 (BLS OOH 2024). Massachusetts ranks among the top states for technology employment, with the Boston-Cambridge-Newton metro area employing tens of thousands of computing professionals. The state's innovation economy continues driving demand for qualified graduates. Salaries in Massachusetts exceed national averages by 15-25%:
- Entry-level positions: $100,000-$120,000
- Mid-career professionals: Add $30,000-$50,000 to entry-level
- Senior/Lead roles: $150,000-$200,000+
- Director/Management: $180,000-$250,000+ The national median for computer and information research scientists is $140,910, but Massachusetts positions routinely offer higher compensation (BLS OEWS May 2024). Financial services, healthcare/biotech, and technology sectors pay premium salaries, while research institutions and government offer excellent benefits and work-life balance. High-demand skills and specializations vary by sector: cloud technologies (AWS, Azure, GCP), modern frameworks and languages, agile/DevOps methodologies, and domain expertise in healthcare, finance, or biotech. The state's concentration of regulated industries creates demand for professionals who understand compliance requirements. Explore related career paths in our computer science programs or data science rankings.
Entry-Level (0-2 yrs)
New graduates and career changers
Senior (8+ yrs)
Technical leads and architects
Median Salary in Massachusetts$83,616$186,528
Typical RolesJunior Developer, AnalystStaff Engineer, Architect
Remote Work AccessLimitedCommon
Degree ExpectationBachelor's sufficientMaster's preferred
Online vs On-Campus Artificial Intelligence Programs in Massachusetts
Online Programs
11 available in Massachusetts
On-Campus Programs
Traditional classroom experience
Typical Tuition$31,759/yr$35,288/yr
Schedule FlexibilitySelf-paced or asyncFixed schedule
NetworkingVirtual cohortsIn-person, career fairs
Best ForWorking professionalsTraditional students
Completion Time2-4 years (flexible)4 years (standard)
Compare Artificial Intelligence Programs in Other States
Best Artificial Intelligence Degree Programs in New Hampshire
- Total Programs
- 10
- Median Tuition
- $26,000
Best Artificial Intelligence Degree Programs in Vermont
- Total Programs
- 10
- Median Tuition
- $47,300
Best Artificial Intelligence Degree Programs in New York
- Total Programs
- 112
- Median Tuition
- $7,100
Best Artificial Intelligence Degree Programs in Connecticut
- Total Programs
- 11
- Median Tuition
- $44,100
Best Artificial Intelligence Degree Programs in Rhode Island
- Total Programs
- 9
- Median Tuition
- $42,300
Best Artificial Intelligence Degree Programs in California
- Total Programs
- 177
- Median Tuition
- $5,700
Best Artificial Intelligence Degree Programs in Washington
- Total Programs
- 38
- Median Tuition
- $11,000
Best Artificial Intelligence Degree Programs in Texas
- Total Programs
- 62
- Median Tuition
- $8,600
Artificial Intelligence Degree Programs in Massachusetts: FAQ
What are the best artificial intelligence degree programs in Massachusetts?
The best artificial intelligence degree programs in Massachusetts based on our methodology are: 1) University of Massachusetts-Amherst (90% graduation rate), 2) Massachusetts Institute of Technology, and 3) Tufts University. Our rankings weight graduation rates (25%), program completions (35%), selectivity (20%), and career outcomes (20%). Massachusetts offers 46 total accredited programs across 16 public and 30 private institutions. See our complete rankings for all 35 bachelor's programs.
How much do artificial intelligence degree programs cost in Massachusetts?
Artificial Intelligence degree program costs in Massachusetts vary significantly by institution type. In-state public tuition averages $35,288/year, while private institutions average $77,634/year. Community colleges offer the most affordable path at approximately $8,822/year for associate's degrees. The total 4-year cost ranges from $141,152 at public schools to $310,534 at private institutions before financial aid. Most students don't pay full sticker price, federal grants, state aid, and institutional scholarships can reduce costs by 30-60%.
What salary can artificial intelligence degree graduates earn in Massachusetts?
Artificial Intelligence professionals in Massachusetts earn a median salary of $128,640, which is 11% above the national average of $115,500. Entry-level positions typically start around $83,616, while senior roles exceed $186,528. Salaries vary by metro area: Boston ($141,504), Cambridge ($135,072) offer the highest compensation. Specialized roles like AI/ML engineers and cloud architects command premiums of 15-30% above median.
Are there online artificial intelligence degree programs in Massachusetts?
Yes, Massachusetts offers 11 accredited online Artificial Intelligence programs from state institutions. These programs award the same degree as on-campus options and include synchronous and asynchronous formats. Top-ranked online programs include offerings from Clark University and Worcester Polytechnic Institute. Online programs typically cost the same as on-campus tuition for in-state students. Many programs offer flexible scheduling for working professionals, with some offering accelerated completion in 2-3 years. Ensure any online program holds regional accreditation and ideally ABET accreditation for engineering programs.
What companies hire artificial intelligence degree graduates in Massachusetts?
Major Artificial Intelligence employers in Massachusetts include Amazon, Google, HubSpot, Wayfair, Toast. The Boston and Cambridge metro areas serve as primary tech hubs with thousands of open positions. Top employers maintain recruiting pipelines directly from Massachusetts universities, with many offering internship-to-hire programs. Beyond tech giants, opportunities exist in healthcare IT, financial services, defense contractors, and growing startups. Massachusetts's tech sector shows +22% projected job growth through 2033, outpacing most other industries.
Is an artificial intelligence degree program worth it in Massachusetts?
An artificial intelligence degree program in Massachusetts offers strong ROI with a $128,640 median salary and +22% projected job growth. At average in-state tuition of $35,288/year, graduates typically recoup their educational investment within 3-5 years. The degree opens doors to high-paying careers in software development ($145,363), data science, cybersecurity, and AI/ML. Beyond salary, benefits include job security, remote work flexibility, and clear advancement paths. Alternative paths like bootcamps exist for career changers, but bachelor's degrees provide broader career options and higher lifetime earnings.
How long do artificial intelligence degree programs take in Massachusetts?
Standard completion times for artificial intelligence degree programs in Massachusetts are: Associate's (2 years, 60 credits), Bachelor's (4 years, 120 credits), and Master's (1-2 years, 30-36 credits). However, actual timelines vary based on course load, transfer credits, and program format. Accelerated programs can compress a bachelor's to 3 years or a master's to 12 months. Part-time students typically need 5-6 years for a bachelor's degree. Massachusetts community colleges offer a cost-effective "2+2" path: complete your associate's in 2 years, then transfer to a Massachusetts university for the final 2 years of a bachelor's program.
What financial aid is available for artificial intelligence degree students in Massachusetts?
Massachusetts artificial intelligence degree students can access multiple financial aid sources. Federal aid includes Pell Grants (up to $7,395/year for qualifying students) and federal student loans. Massachusetts state grants provide additional support for residents attending in-state schools. Institutional scholarships from universities can significantly reduce costs, many schools offer merit-based awards for STEM students. Work-study programs and teaching/research assistantships (especially for graduate students) provide income while building experience. Complete the FAFSA by Massachusetts's priority deadline to maximize aid eligibility. Some employers also offer tuition reimbursement for employees pursuing CS degrees.
Data Sources
Institutional characteristics, completions, graduation rates
Massachusetts salary and employment data
Official University Websites
Program details and admissions information
Last Updated: June 26, 2026. Rankings based on IPEDS 2024 data. Salary data from BLS OEWS May 2024.
Was this ranking helpful for your college search?
Thanks for your feedback!
How can we improve this article?
Thank you for helping us improve!
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.