- 1.Hakia's analysis of the most affordable artificial intelligence degree programs reveals that aI Engineers and Computer Scientists earn a median salary of $136,620 with 23% projected job growth through 2032 (BLS OES 2024)
- 2.Top-ranked Artificial Intelligence programs include University of North Carolina at Charlotte, Florida Polytechnic University, North Carolina A & T State University based on graduation rates, program strength, and career outcomes
- 3.Best value: University of North Carolina at Charlotte offers artificial intelligence education at $3,812/year with 76% graduation rate
- 4.25 accredited Artificial Intelligence programs analyzed using IPEDS 2023 completion data
Best Artificial Intelligence Programs - Top 10 Most Affordable
Bridgewater State University
BSU delivers a comprehensive computer science education at under $1,000/year in-state tuition through the Massachusetts state university system, making it one of the most affordable accredited CS programs in the Northeast.
Bridgewater State University Artificial Intelligence Program Overview
Hakia ranks Bridgewater State University as the #1 in artificial intelligence degree program.
Bridgewater State University provides budget-friendly Artificial Intelligence education at $910 per year, making quality education accessible to more students. Despite lower costs, the program maintains a strong 97% graduation rate. 30 miles from Boston tech hub
Hakia Insight: Through ties with Boston tech ecosystem and State Street Corporation, Bridgewater State University bridges the gap between academic training and industry practice.
Cost Breakdown
Degree Programs
Research Labs & Institutes
Faculty-mentored student research projects
Location Advantages
- •30 miles from Boston tech hub
- •Access to Route 128 technology corridor
- •Strong alumni network in Massachusetts
- •Affordable cost of living in South Shore
Industry Partners
Career Outcomes
State Street, Raytheon, EMC, Dell Technologies, Liberty Mutual
Admissions
Elizabeth City State University
ECSU combines NC Promise affordability with unique NASA and Coast Guard partnerships, providing specialized opportunities in aerospace and maritime technology fields.
Elizabeth City State University Artificial Intelligence Program Overview
Hakia ranks Elizabeth City State University as the #2 in artificial intelligence degree program.
Elizabeth City State University provides budget-friendly Artificial Intelligence education at $1,000 per year, making quality education accessible to more students. Despite lower costs, the program maintains a strong 99% graduation rate. NC Promise - $500/semester
Hakia Insight: Through ties with NASA and US Coast Guard, Elizabeth City State University bridges the gap between academic training and industry practice.
Cost Breakdown
Degree Programs
Research Labs & Institutes
NASA-funded research
Location Advantages
- •NC Promise - $500/semester
- •NASA research center proximity
- •Coast Guard base connections
- •Unique aerospace opportunities
Industry Partners
Career Outcomes
NASA, Coast Guard, Defense contractors, Regional tech firms
Admissions
Western Carolina University
WCU delivers computer science education at just $500/semester through NC Promise, making it one of America's most affordable pathways to a technology career while maintaining strong academic standards.
Western Carolina University Artificial Intelligence Program Overview
Hakia ranks Western Carolina University as the #3 in artificial intelligence degree program.
Western Carolina University provides budget-friendly Artificial Intelligence education at $1,000 per year, making quality education accessible to more students. Despite lower costs, the program maintains a strong 95% graduation rate. NC Promise - $500/semester tuition
Hakia Insight: Western Carolina University leverages partnerships with Charlotte tech companies and Regional employers to offer students real-world project experience valued by employers.
Cost Breakdown
Degree Programs
Research Labs & Institutes
Student projects and research
Location Advantages
- •NC Promise - $500/semester tuition
- •Blue Ridge Mountain setting
- •Access to Charlotte and Asheville tech markets
- •Low cost of living
Industry Partners
Career Outcomes
Bank of America, Wells Fargo, Duke Energy, Regional tech firms
Admissions
Fayetteville State University
As an NC Promise institution and HBCU, FSU provides accessible computer science education with strong military and government technology connections due to proximity to Fort Bragg.
Fayetteville State University Artificial Intelligence Program Overview
Hakia ranks Fayetteville State University as the #4 in artificial intelligence degree program.
Fayetteville State University provides budget-friendly Artificial Intelligence education at $1,000 per year, making quality education accessible to more students. Despite lower costs, the program maintains a strong 86% graduation rate. NC Promise - $500/semester
Hakia Insight: Fayetteville State University's industry network — including Fort Bragg/Fort Liberty and Defense contractors — provides students with internship and hiring pathways.
Cost Breakdown
Degree Programs
Research Labs & Institutes
Programming and development
Location Advantages
- •NC Promise - $500/semester
- •HBCU with strong community
- •Fort Bragg proximity for defense careers
- •Research Triangle access
Industry Partners
Career Outcomes
US Army, Defense contractors, State government, Regional tech firms
Admissions
Westfield State University
Westfield State provides affordable access to computer science education in Western Massachusetts, serving students who want quality STEM education without relocating to the Boston area.
Westfield State University Artificial Intelligence Program Overview
Hakia ranks Westfield State University as the #5 in artificial intelligence degree program.
Westfield State University provides budget-friendly Artificial Intelligence education at $970 per year, making quality education accessible to more students. Pioneer Valley location
Hakia Insight: Westfield State University leverages partnerships with Springfield area employers and MassMutual to offer students real-world project experience valued by employers.
Cost Breakdown
Degree Programs
Research Labs & Institutes
Programming and systems
Location Advantages
- •Pioneer Valley location
- •Lower cost of living than Eastern MA
- •Access to Five College Consortium area
- •Growing regional tech sector
Industry Partners
Career Outcomes
MassMutual, Baystate Health, Big Y, Smith & Wesson
Admissions
Fitchburg State University
Fitchburg State provides one of Massachusetts' most affordable pathways to a computer science degree while maintaining strong industry connections and hands-on learning opportunities.
Fitchburg State University Artificial Intelligence Program Overview
Hakia ranks Fitchburg State University as the #6 in artificial intelligence degree program.
Fitchburg State University provides budget-friendly Artificial Intelligence education at $970 per year, making quality education accessible to more students. North Central Massachusetts location
Hakia Insight: Through ties with Central MA employers and SimpliSafe, Fitchburg State University bridges the gap between academic training and industry practice.
Cost Breakdown
Degree Programs
Research Labs & Institutes
Programming and systems development
Location Advantages
- •North Central Massachusetts location
- •Lower cost of living
- •Growing regional tech presence
- •Access to Boston within 1 hour
Industry Partners
Career Outcomes
SimpliSafe, Nypro, National Grid, UMass Medical
Admissions
University of North Carolina at Pembroke
UNCP combines NC Promise affordability with personalized education and strong support services, making computer science accessible to students from all backgrounds.
University of North Carolina at Pembroke Artificial Intelligence Program Overview
Hakia ranks University of North Carolina at Pembroke as the #7 in artificial intelligence degree program.
University of North Carolina at Pembroke provides budget-friendly Artificial Intelligence education at $1,000 per year, making quality education accessible to more students. NC Promise - $500/semester
Hakia Insight: University of North Carolina at Pembroke's Computing Labs creates a direct research-to-career pipeline with Regional employers, bridging academic research and industry practice.
Cost Breakdown
Degree Programs
Research Labs & Institutes
Student development projects
Location Advantages
- •NC Promise - $500/semester
- •Supportive learning environment
- •Low cost of living
- •Access to Fayetteville and Raleigh markets
Industry Partners
Career Outcomes
Regional tech firms, Healthcare systems, Government agencies
Admissions
Florida Atlantic University
FAU provides quality computing education in South Florida's growing tech corridor at Florida public university pricing, with strong emphasis on applied AI and practical industry skills.
Florida Atlantic University Artificial Intelligence Program Overview
Hakia ranks Florida Atlantic University as the #8 in artificial intelligence degree program.
Florida Atlantic University provides budget-friendly Artificial Intelligence education at $2,522 per year, making quality education accessible to more students. Despite lower costs, the program maintains a strong 78% graduation rate. Boca Raton - South Florida tech hub
Hakia Insight: Florida Atlantic University's direct partnerships with IBM and Office Depot give students a competitive edge through industry-embedded projects and recruiting pipelines.
Cost Breakdown
Degree Programs
Research Labs & Institutes
Image Processing and Pattern Recognition
Computational Linguistics
Expert Systems and Knowledge Representation
Location Advantages
- •Boca Raton - South Florida tech hub
- •Palm Beach County business center
- •Strong startup ecosystem
- •Research park proximity
Industry Partners
Career Outcomes
IBM, Office Depot, Citrix, NextEra Energy, South Florida startups
Certifications & Designations
Admissions
North Carolina A & T State University
As the largest HBCU, NC A&T combines significant research infrastructure and industry partnerships with a commitment to developing diverse technology talent for major employers.
North Carolina A & T State University Artificial Intelligence Program Overview
Hakia ranks North Carolina A & T State University as the #9 in artificial intelligence degree program.
North Carolina A & T State University provides budget-friendly Artificial Intelligence education at $3,540 per year, making quality education accessible to more students. Despite lower costs, the program maintains a strong 84% graduation rate. Greensboro - Piedmont Triad region
Hakia Insight: North Carolina A & T State University's industry network — including Apple and Google — provides students with internship and hiring pathways.
Cost Breakdown
Degree Programs
Research Labs & Institutes
Biometrics and identity
Nanotechnology research
Location Advantages
- •Greensboro - Piedmont Triad region
- •Strong HBCU network and support
- •Research Triangle proximity
- •Major corporate recruitment
Industry Partners
Career Outcomes
Apple, Google, Lockheed Martin, Honda, Bank of America
Certifications & Designations
Admissions
University of North Carolina at Charlotte
UNC Charlotte combines large-program resources with Charlotte's booming tech economy, offering students access to major employers in banking, fintech, and enterprise software at North Carolina public university pricing.
University of North Carolina at Charlotte Artificial Intelligence Program Overview
Hakia ranks University of North Carolina at Charlotte as the #10 in artificial intelligence degree program.
University of North Carolina at Charlotte provides budget-friendly Artificial Intelligence education at $3,812 per year, making quality education accessible to more students. Despite lower costs, the program maintains a strong 76% graduation rate. Charlotte - major financial and tech hub
Hakia Insight: University of North Carolina at Charlotte leverages partnerships with Bank of America and Wells Fargo to offer students real-world project experience valued by employers.
Cost Breakdown
Degree Programs
Research Labs & Institutes
Data visualization research
Security research and education
Location Advantages
- •Charlotte - major financial and tech hub
- •University City research park
- •Strong banking/fintech sector
- •Growing startup ecosystem
Industry Partners
Career Outcomes
Bank of America, Wells Fargo, Lowe's, Duke Energy, Red Ventures
Certifications & Designations
Admissions
Best Artificial Intelligence Programs - Top 10 Most Affordable — Complete Program Data
#1. Bridgewater State University Artificial Intelligence Program
Hakia ranks Bridgewater State University as the #1 in artificial intelligence degree program. Location: Bridgewater, MA | Type: Public | Tuition: $910/year | Graduation Rate: 97% | Score: 100.0
What makes Bridgewater State University stand out: BSU delivers a comprehensive computer science education at under $1,000/year in-state tuition through the Massachusetts state university system, making it one of the most affordable accredited CS programs in the Northeast.
Hakia Insight: Through ties with Boston tech ecosystem and State Street Corporation, Bridgewater State University bridges the gap between academic training and industry practice.
Program Overview: Bridgewater State University offers one of Massachusetts' most affordable computer science programs through its College of Science and Mathematics. The department emphasizes hands-on learning with small class sizes averaging 20 students, providing personalized attention rare at this price point. Students complete a rigorous curriculum covering algorithms, software engineering, databases, and networking, with opportunities for undergraduate research and industry internships through BSU's strong ties to Boston-area technology companies.
Degree Programs: BS Computer Science (4 years); BS Computer Science - Data Science concentration (4 years)
Research Labs: Undergraduate Research Program - Faculty-mentored student research projects
Industry Partners: Boston tech ecosystem, State Street Corporation
Career Outcomes: | Top Employers: State Street, Raytheon, EMC, Dell Technologies, Liberty Mutual | Common Roles: Software Developer, Systems Analyst, Data Analyst, IT Specialist
Admissions: | Acceptance Rate: 89%
#2. Elizabeth City State University Artificial Intelligence Program
Hakia ranks Elizabeth City State University as the #2 in artificial intelligence degree program. Location: Elizabeth City, NC | Type: Public | Tuition: $1,000/year | Graduation Rate: 99% | Score: 83.9
What makes Elizabeth City State University stand out: ECSU combines NC Promise affordability with unique NASA and Coast Guard partnerships, providing specialized opportunities in aerospace and maritime technology fields.
Hakia Insight: Through ties with NASA and US Coast Guard, Elizabeth City State University bridges the gap between academic training and industry practice.
Program Overview: Elizabeth City State University, an NC Promise institution and HBCU, offers affordable technology education at $500 per semester. The Department of Mathematics and Computer Science provides personalized education with small class sizes. ECSU has partnerships with NASA and the Coast Guard, providing unique research and career opportunities for students interested in aerospace and maritime technology.
Degree Programs: BS Computer Science (4 years); BS Computer Information Systems (4 years)
Research Labs: Center of Excellence in Remote Sensing Education and Research - NASA-funded research
Industry Partners: NASA, US Coast Guard
Career Outcomes: | Top Employers: NASA, Coast Guard, Defense contractors, Regional tech firms | Common Roles: Software Developer, Systems Analyst, Research Technician, IT Specialist
Admissions: | Acceptance Rate: 80%
#3. Western Carolina University Artificial Intelligence Program
Hakia ranks Western Carolina University as the #3 in artificial intelligence degree program. Location: Cullowhee, NC | Type: Public | Tuition: $1,000/year | Graduation Rate: 95% | Score: 82.4
What makes Western Carolina University stand out: WCU delivers computer science education at just $500/semester through NC Promise, making it one of America's most affordable pathways to a technology career while maintaining strong academic standards.
Hakia Insight: Western Carolina University leverages partnerships with Charlotte tech companies and Regional employers to offer students real-world project experience valued by employers.
Program Overview: Western Carolina University offers exceptional value through North Carolina's NC Promise Tuition Plan, providing in-state students a four-year degree for just $500 per semester. The Computer Science program combines theoretical foundations with practical application, preparing graduates for careers in software development and IT. Located in the Blue Ridge Mountains, WCU provides a unique blend of affordable education and quality of life.
Degree Programs: BS Computer Science (4 years); BS Computer Information Systems (4 years)
Research Labs: WCU Computing Labs - Student projects and research
Industry Partners: Charlotte tech companies, Regional employers
Career Outcomes: | Top Employers: Bank of America, Wells Fargo, Duke Energy, Regional tech firms | Common Roles: Software Developer, Systems Analyst, IT Manager, Web Developer
Admissions: | Acceptance Rate: 87%
#4. Fayetteville State University Artificial Intelligence Program
Hakia ranks Fayetteville State University as the #4 in artificial intelligence degree program. Location: Fayetteville, NC | Type: Public | Tuition: $1,000/year | Graduation Rate: 86% | Score: 80.5
What makes Fayetteville State University stand out: As an NC Promise institution and HBCU, FSU provides accessible computer science education with strong military and government technology connections due to proximity to Fort Bragg.
Hakia Insight: Fayetteville State University's industry network — including Fort Bragg/Fort Liberty and Defense contractors — provides students with internship and hiring pathways.
Program Overview: Fayetteville State University, an HBCU in the UNC System, offers affordable computer science education with NC Promise pricing at $500 per semester. The program provides solid foundations in programming, algorithms, and software development. FSU's location near Fort Bragg provides unique opportunities for defense-related technology careers and government contracts.
Degree Programs: BS Computer Science (4 years); BS Mathematics with CS concentration (4 years)
Research Labs: Computer Science Lab - Programming and development
Industry Partners: Fort Bragg/Fort Liberty, Defense contractors
Career Outcomes: | Top Employers: US Army, Defense contractors, State government, Regional tech firms | Common Roles: Software Developer, Systems Administrator, IT Specialist, Database Administrator
Admissions: | Acceptance Rate: 78%
#5. Westfield State University Artificial Intelligence Program
Hakia ranks Westfield State University as the #5 in artificial intelligence degree program. Location: Westfield, MA | Type: Public | Tuition: $970/year | Score: 77.8
What makes Westfield State University stand out: Westfield State provides affordable access to computer science education in Western Massachusetts, serving students who want quality STEM education without relocating to the Boston area.
Hakia Insight: Westfield State University leverages partnerships with Springfield area employers and MassMutual to offer students real-world project experience valued by employers.
Program Overview: Westfield State University offers computer science programs in Western Massachusetts' Pioneer Valley. The Computer and Information Science department provides a comprehensive curriculum covering programming, databases, networks, and software engineering. Small class sizes ensure personalized attention, while the program's affordability makes it accessible to students throughout the region. WSU prepares graduates for careers in software development, IT management, and data analysis.
Degree Programs: BS Computer Science (4 years); BS Information Systems (4 years)
Research Labs: Computer Science Labs - Programming and systems
Industry Partners: Springfield area employers, MassMutual
Career Outcomes: | Top Employers: MassMutual, Baystate Health, Big Y, Smith & Wesson | Common Roles: Software Developer, Systems Analyst, Database Administrator, IT Manager
Admissions: | Acceptance Rate: 88%
#6. Fitchburg State University Artificial Intelligence Program
Hakia ranks Fitchburg State University as the #6 in artificial intelligence degree program. Location: Fitchburg, MA | Type: Public | Tuition: $970/year | Score: 76.8
What makes Fitchburg State University stand out: Fitchburg State provides one of Massachusetts' most affordable pathways to a computer science degree while maintaining strong industry connections and hands-on learning opportunities.
Hakia Insight: Through ties with Central MA employers and SimpliSafe, Fitchburg State University bridges the gap between academic training and industry practice.
Program Overview: Fitchburg State University delivers computer science education in North Central Massachusetts with a focus on practical, career-ready skills. The program covers core areas including programming, data structures, databases, and software engineering. FSU emphasizes experiential learning through internships and capstone projects. The university's affordable tuition makes quality computer science education accessible to students throughout the region.
Degree Programs: BS Computer Science (4 years); BS Computer Information Systems (4 years)
Research Labs: Computer Science Labs - Programming and systems development
Industry Partners: Central MA employers, SimpliSafe
Career Outcomes: | Top Employers: SimpliSafe, Nypro, National Grid, UMass Medical | Common Roles: Software Developer, IT Specialist, Database Administrator, Web Developer
Admissions: | Acceptance Rate: 91%
#7. University of North Carolina at Pembroke Artificial Intelligence Program
Hakia ranks University of North Carolina at Pembroke as the #7 in artificial intelligence degree program. Location: Pembroke, NC | Type: Public | Tuition: $1,000/year | Score: 69.8
What makes University of North Carolina at Pembroke stand out: UNCP combines NC Promise affordability with personalized education and strong support services, making computer science accessible to students from all backgrounds.
Hakia Insight: University of North Carolina at Pembroke's Computing Labs creates a direct research-to-career pipeline with Regional employers, bridging academic research and industry practice.
Program Overview: UNC Pembroke offers NC Promise tuition at $500 per semester, making it among the nation's most affordable options for computer science education. The Mathematics and Computer Science department provides a well-rounded curriculum emphasizing problem-solving and technical skills. UNCP has a strong commitment to serving first-generation and underserved students.
Degree Programs: BS Computer Science (4 years); BS Information Technology (4 years)
Research Labs: Computing Labs - Student development projects
Industry Partners: Regional employers
Career Outcomes: | Top Employers: Regional tech firms, Healthcare systems, Government agencies | Common Roles: Software Developer, IT Support, Systems Analyst, Web Developer
Admissions: | Acceptance Rate: 92%
#8. Florida Atlantic University Artificial Intelligence Program
Hakia ranks Florida Atlantic University as the #8 in artificial intelligence degree program. Location: Boca Raton, FL | Type: Public | Tuition: $2,522/year | Graduation Rate: 78% | Score: 41.0
What makes Florida Atlantic University stand out: FAU provides quality computing education in South Florida's growing tech corridor at Florida public university pricing, with strong emphasis on applied AI and practical industry skills.
Hakia Insight: Florida Atlantic University's direct partnerships with IBM and Office Depot give students a competitive edge through industry-embedded projects and recruiting pipelines.
Program Overview: FAU's College of Engineering and Computer Science serves South Florida's technology needs from Boca Raton. The department offers programs in computer science, computer engineering, and AI, with growing research in machine learning and autonomous systems. FAU's location provides access to South Florida's diverse economy including tech startups, healthcare, and financial services.
Degree Programs: BS Computer Science (4 years); BS Computer Engineering (4 years); BS AI and Machine Learning (4 years)
Research Labs: Computer Vision Lab - Image Processing and Pattern Recognition; Natural Language Processing Lab - Computational Linguistics; Intelligent Systems Lab - Expert Systems and Knowledge Representation
Industry Partners: IBM, Office Depot, ADT
Career Outcomes: | Top Employers: IBM, Office Depot, Citrix, NextEra Energy, South Florida startups | Common Roles: Software Engineer, ML Engineer, Systems Developer, UX Designer
Admissions: | Acceptance Rate: 64%
Accreditations: CompTIA A+, Oracle Java Certification, IBM AI Engineering
#9. North Carolina A & T State University Artificial Intelligence Program
Hakia ranks North Carolina A & T State University as the #9 in artificial intelligence degree program. Location: Greensboro, NC | Type: Public | Tuition: $3,540/year | Graduation Rate: 84% | Score: 32.1
What makes North Carolina A & T State University stand out: As the largest HBCU, NC A&T combines significant research infrastructure and industry partnerships with a commitment to developing diverse technology talent for major employers.
Hakia Insight: North Carolina A & T State University's industry network — including Apple and Google — provides students with internship and hiring pathways.
Program Overview: North Carolina A&T, the nation's largest HBCU, offers strong computer science programs through its College of Engineering. The university has significant research funding and industry partnerships, particularly in defense, aerospace, and emerging technologies. A&T graduates are highly recruited by Fortune 500 companies and government agencies, with strong placement in technology roles.
Degree Programs: BS Computer Science (4 years); BS Computer Engineering (4 years)
Research Labs: Center for Advanced Studies in Identity Sciences - Biometrics and identity; Joint School of Nanoscience - Nanotechnology research
Industry Partners: Apple, Google, Honda
Career Outcomes: | Top Employers: Apple, Google, Lockheed Martin, Honda, Bank of America | Common Roles: Software Engineer, Systems Engineer, Data Analyst, IT Consultant
Notable Faculty: Dr. Jinsheng Xu (BS in AI Program Coordinator); Dr. Kaushik Roy (Computer Science Professor and Chair); Dr. Evelyn Sowells-Boone (Computer Systems Technology Department Chair); Dr. Ahmad Patooghy (Program Coordinator)
Admissions: | Acceptance Rate: 62%
Accreditations: ABET accredited
#10. University of North Carolina at Charlotte Artificial Intelligence Program
Hakia ranks University of North Carolina at Charlotte as the #10 in artificial intelligence degree program. Location: Charlotte, NC | Type: Public | Tuition: $3,812/year | Graduation Rate: 76% | Score: 31.4
What makes University of North Carolina at Charlotte stand out: UNC Charlotte combines large-program resources with Charlotte's booming tech economy, offering students access to major employers in banking, fintech, and enterprise software at North Carolina public university pricing.
Hakia Insight: University of North Carolina at Charlotte leverages partnerships with Bank of America and Wells Fargo to offer students real-world project experience valued by employers.
Program Overview: UNC Charlotte's College of Computing and Informatics is the largest computing college in the Carolinas, offering comprehensive programs in computer science, data science, and software engineering. Located in Charlotte's University City, students have direct access to the Southeast's largest banking center and growing technology hub. The college emphasizes industry connections through internship programs and corporate partnerships.
Degree Programs: BS Computer Science (4 years); BS Data Science (4 years); BS Software Engineering (4 years)
Research Labs: Visualization Center - Data visualization research; Cybersecurity Lab - Security research and education
Industry Partners: Bank of America, Wells Fargo, Lowe's
Career Outcomes: | Top Employers: Bank of America, Wells Fargo, Lowe's, Duke Energy, Red Ventures | Common Roles: Software Engineer, Data Scientist, DevOps Engineer, Full Stack Developer
Admissions:
Accreditations: ABET accredited CS program
Best Artificial Intelligence Programs - Compare Top 5 Most Affordable
| School | Location | Type | Tuition | Grad Rate | Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 Bridgewater State University | Bridgewater, MA | Public | $910 | 97% | 100.0/100 |
| #2 Elizabeth City State University | Elizabeth City, NC | Public | $1,000 | 99% | 83.9/100 |
| #3 Western Carolina University | Cullowhee, NC | Public | $1,000 | 95% | 82.4/100 |
| #4 Fayetteville State University | Fayetteville, NC | Public | $1,000 | 86% | 80.5/100 |
| #5 Westfield State University | Westfield, MA | Public | $970 | N/A | 77.8/100 |
Online Programs
Flexibility & Lower Cost
On-Campus Programs
Networking & Experience
Online Programs
Flexibility & Lower Cost
On-Campus Programs
Networking & Experience
Top 25 Most Affordable Artificial Intelligence Programs 2026
| Rank | Institution | Location | Tuition | Value Score | Grad Rate |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Bridgewater State University | Bridgewater, MA | $910 | — | 97% |
| 2 | Elizabeth City State University | Elizabeth City, NC | $1,000 | — | 99% |
| 3 | Western Carolina University | Cullowhee, NC | $1,000 | — | 95% |
| 4 | Fayetteville State University | Fayetteville, NC | $1,000 | — | 86% |
| 5 | Westfield State University | Westfield, MA | $970 | — | — |
| 6 | Fitchburg State University | Fitchburg, MA | $970 | — | — |
| 7 | University of North Carolina at Pembroke | Pembroke, NC | $1,000 | — | — |
| 8 | Florida Atlantic University | Boca Raton, FL | $2,522 | — | 78% |
| 9 | North Carolina A & T State University | Greensboro, NC | $3,540 | — | 84% |
| 10 | University of North Carolina at Charlotte | Charlotte, NC | $3,812 | — | 76% |
| 11 | Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University | Tallahassee, FL | $3,152 | — | — |
| 12 | University of North Florida | Jacksonville, FL | $3,996 | — | 82% |
| 13 | Florida Polytechnic University | Lakeland, FL | $3,152 | — | 81% |
| 14 | Bellevue College | Bellevue, WA | $4,074 | — | 96% |
| 15 | University of Florida | Gainesville, FL | $4,477 | — | 95% |
| 16 | University of Central Florida | Orlando, FL | $4,478 | — | 93% |
| 17 | Kennesaw State University | Kennesaw, GA | $4,450 | — | 66% |
| 18 | Georgia Southern University | Statesboro, GA | $4,371 | — | 94% |
| 19 | University of North Carolina Wilmington | Wilmington, NC | $4,443 | — | 79% |
| 20 | University of South Florida | Tampa, FL | $4,559 | — | 85% |
| 21 | San Diego State University | San Diego, CA | $5,742 | — | 83% |
| 22 | Texas A & M International University | Laredo, TX | $3,818 | — | 82% |
| 23 | University of North Carolina at Greensboro | Greensboro, NC | $4,422 | — | — |
| 24 | East Carolina University | Greenville, NC | $4,452 | — | — |
| 25 | University of West Florida | Pensacola, FL | $3,735 | — | 84% |
Showing 1–25 of 50
How Much Does a Artificial Intelligence Affordable Degree Cost?
The total cost of a affordable's degree in Artificial Intelligence ranges from $49,424 at public universities to over $260,000 at elite private institutions. Financial aid, scholarships, and in-state tuition significantly reduce out-of-pocket costs (CollegeTuitionCompare 2025, Research.com).
- Public University (In-State): $12,356/year × 4 years = $49,424 total
- Public University (Out-of-State): $31,846/year × 4 years = $127,384 total
- Private University: $65,000/year × 4 years = $260,000 total
- Online Programs: $20,000/year × 4 years = $80,000 total
With median starting salaries of $145,080, most graduates achieve positive ROI within 3-5 years. Financial aid recipients often pay 30-50% less than sticker price.
Leave blank to use average cost for selected program type
+907%
Net gain divided by total investment. ROI above 200% is considered excellent for education investments.
$1,677,254
Your additional lifetime earnings with this degree vs. working without one, minus the total investment.
5 years
Years until your cumulative earnings exceed total investment. Shorter programs often break even faster due to lower opportunity cost.
$133,333
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.
Tuition plus opportunity cost (earnings you miss while in school)
Direct cost of the degree program
4 years × $35K/year foregone salary while studying full-time
Projected career earnings starting after graduation, with salary growth
What you'd earn working at $35K/year with 2% annual growth
Median salary for this role in your selected location (BLS 2024)
Your investment's compound annual growth rate (similar to stock market returns)
Data sources: BLS OEWS May 2024, IPEDS 2023. 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
Affordable Artificial Intelligence Degrees: Quality Education Without the Debt
Artificial Intelligence education doesn't require six-figure debt. Our analysis of accredited programs reveals exceptional value opportunities, with the most affordable in-state programs delivering quality education at a fraction of private school costs.
Public universities in Southern and Western states lead our affordable rankings, offering strong academics with affordable tuition. These programs maintain competitive graduation rates, industry partnerships, and excellent job placement—proving that cost doesn't determine quality in artificial intelligence education.
Our methodology prioritizes total value by calculating a Value Score that divides academic quality metrics by tuition cost. This ensures we're recommending programs that deliver the best education for your dollar, not just the cheapest options regardless of quality. See our full ranking methodology for details on how we calculate Value Scores.
True Cost Breakdown
The true cost of a Artificial Intelligence degree extends beyond tuition. Understanding total cost of attendance helps you budget accurately and compare programs fairly. According to College Board, non-tuition expenses add $12,000-$25,000 annually to degree costs.
Full Cost Breakdown:
- Tuition — $3,000-$15,000/year (in-state public) vs $30,000-$60,000/year (private)
- Fees — $500-$3,000/year (technology, activity, health fees)
- Books/Supplies — $500-$1,500/year; e-textbooks and open resources reduce costs
- Housing — $8,000-$15,000/year; off-campus often cheaper than dorms
- Food — $3,000-$5,000/year; meal plans vs. cooking varies widely
- Transportation — $1,000-$3,000/year; car-free campuses save significantly
- Personal/Misc — $2,000-$4,000/year; includes phone, entertainment, supplies
Cost-Saving Strategy: Use each school's Net Price Calculator for personalized estimates including financial aid. Sticker price rarely reflects actual cost.
In-State Tuition Strategies
Establishing in-state residency can reduce Artificial Intelligence degree costs by $40,000-$80,000 over four years. Each state has different requirements, but most allow residency establishment within 12 months.
Common Residency Requirements:
- Physical presence — 12 consecutive months living in state before enrollment
- Intent to remain — Driver's license, voter registration, vehicle registration in state
- Financial independence — If under 24, may need parents to establish residency too
- Employment — Some states require working in-state during residency year
Gap Year Strategy: Work in your target state for a year before starting college. You'll earn money, establish residency, and save tens of thousands on tuition. Many tech hubs (Austin, Seattle, Denver) offer good entry-level tech jobs.
Regional Agreements: Some states offer reduced tuition through compacts like WUE (Western Undergraduate Exchange) or MSEP (Midwest Student Exchange)—typically 150% of in-state tuition.
Save with Transfer Credits
Starting at a community college before transferring can reduce Artificial Intelligence degree costs by $20,000-$40,000. According to Community College Research Center, transfer students who complete associate's degrees before transferring achieve similar graduation rates to direct admits at four-year schools.
Transfer Pathway Strategy:
- Complete 60+ credits at community college (~$8,000-$15,000 total)
- Target transfer agreements — Many states guarantee admission to public universities for CC graduates
- Focus on transferable courses — General education and intro CS courses transfer most reliably
- Maintain 3.5+ GPA — Transfer admission is often more competitive than freshman admission
Transfer-Friendly Universities:
- UC System — TAG (Transfer Admission Guarantee) with CA community colleges
- UT Austin — CAP program guarantees transfer after one year at other UT campuses
- Arizona State — MAPP agreements with Maricopa Community Colleges
- Many state schools — 2+2 articulation agreements guarantee credit transfer
Graduate Debt-Free Strategies
Graduating debt-free from a Artificial Intelligence program is achievable with strategic planning. According to TICAS, 30% of bachelor's graduates complete their degrees without student loans. Here's how to join them.
Debt-Free Strategies:
- Community college start — Complete 2 years for ~$7,000 vs $30,000+ at 4-year schools
- Work part-time — 15-20 hours/week at $15-20/hour covers living expenses; campus IT jobs are ideal
- Employer tuition programs — Companies like Starbucks, Amazon, and Target offer full tuition coverage
- AmeriCorps/Peace Corps — Earn $6,500+ education award per year of service
- Tuition payment plans — Interest-free monthly payments avoid loans for manageable amounts
Income While in School:
- Paid internships — ${programName} interns earn $4,000-$8,000/month in summer
- Freelance work — Web development, tutoring, or technical writing at $25-75/hour
- Teaching/tutoring — Campus tutoring centers pay $12-20/hour
- Research positions — $15-25/hour working with faculty
Career Paths
AI/Machine Learning Engineer
SOC 15-1299Design and implement AI systems, develop machine learning models, and optimize algorithms for production environments.
Data Scientist
SOC 15-2051Analyze complex datasets, build predictive models, and derive business insights using statistical methods and machine learning.
Software Engineer
SOC 15-1252Develop software applications with AI capabilities, implement algorithms, and build scalable systems for AI-powered products.
Research Scientist
SOC 15-1221Conduct advanced research in AI and machine learning, publish papers, and develop new algorithms and methodologies.
Computer Vision Engineer
SOC 15-1299Develop systems that can interpret and understand visual information, work with image processing and pattern recognition.
Natural Language Processing Engineer
SOC 15-1299Build systems that can understand and process human language, work on chatbots, translation, and text analysis.
Most Affordable States for Artificial Intelligence Education
Financial Aid and Funding Strategies
Financial aid significantly reduces the cost of AI education at public universities. The average aid package at top affordable programs covers 65% of tuition costs, bringing net prices down to $7,800 annually. Federal Pell Grants cover up to $7,395 per year for eligible students, while many states offer additional need-based and merit aid.
STEM-specific scholarships provide additional funding opportunities. The National Science Foundation offers graduate fellowships worth $37,000 annually, while many tech companies sponsor undergraduate scholarships. Students should also explore employer tuition reimbursement programs if pursuing degrees while working.
Work-study programs and research assistantships offer valuable experience while offsetting costs. Many AI programs employ undergraduates as research assistants, providing both income and hands-on experience with cutting-edge projects. Graduate students can often secure teaching or research assistantships that cover tuition plus provide stipends.
Coding Bootcamps: An Alternative to a Artificial Intelligence Degree
Coding bootcamps offer an accelerated pathway into tech careers, typically lasting 3-6 months. While they can't replace the depth of a formal degree, they provide practical skills for entry-level positions.
What is a Coding Bootcamp?
A coding bootcamp is an intensive, short-term training program designed to teach practical programming and tech skills. Unlike traditional degrees, bootcamps focus on job-ready skills and real-world projects.
Who Bootcamps Are Best For
- Career changers looking for a fast entry into tech
- Professionals wanting to add coding skills
- Those who prefer hands-on learning over academics
- Budget-conscious learners
What People Love
Based on discussions from r/codingbootcamp, r/cscareerquestions, and r/learnprogramming
- AI literacy is increasingly valuable across all tech roles
- Learn to work with LLMs, RAG, and modern AI tools
- AI bootcamps are newer, often more current than university courses
- Companies need people who can apply AI, not just research it
- Good stepping stone to AI product or AI engineering roles
Common Concerns
Honest feedback from bootcamp graduates and industry professionals
- True AI research roles still require advanced degrees
- Field moving so fast, curriculum may lag behind state-of-art
- 'AI Engineer' title is poorly defined—roles vary wildly
- Many AI roles are actually software engineering + API calls
- Hype cycle makes it hard to separate real value from marketing
Explore Bootcamps with Springboard
Springboard offers career-focused bootcamps with 1-on-1 mentorship from industry professionals. Their programs include a job guarantee—complete all requirements, and if you don't land a qualifying role, you may be eligible for a full tuition refund.
Programs for Artificial Intelligence careers:
- Software Engineering Career Track
- Data Science Career Track
- Cybersecurity Career Track
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Machine Learning & AI Career Track
+$25K avg salary increase·9 months
- University of Arizona graduate certificate included
- 1-on-1 mentorship from industry professionals
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Frequently Asked Questions About Artificial Intelligence Degrees
Most Affordable AI Programs: Detailed Analysis
The following five programs represent the best combination of affordability and quality in AI education. Each offers unique strengths while maintaining low tuition costs and strong career outcomes for graduates.
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.