Best Associate's Artificial Intelligence Degree Programs in New York
CUNY Borough of Manhattan Community College — New York, NY
Key Distinction: Will offer CUNY's first AI certificate program and hosts annual AI Innovation Challenges that bring together students from all majors to solve social good problems using AI technology
Hakia Insight: BMCC's annual AI Innovation Challenges that pull students across all majors signal an unusual strength: this isn't a siloed technical program but a cross-disciplinary talent funnel where business, social science, and liberal arts students discover AI careers they didn't know existed, expanding post-graduation hiring pools.
At the associate's level, BMCC is developing a new AI Associate degree program along with what will be CUNY's first AI certificate program. The programs are being developed by Computer Science professors as part of the Tech Equity Project.
Programs Offered
- Associate of Science in Artificial Intelligence — 2 years, on-campus
- Associate of Applied Science in Artificial Intelligence — 2 years, online
Research Labs and Institutes
- BMCC AI Tech Innovation Hub
Industry Partners
- Google (tech)
- JP Morgan Chase (financial services)
- BNY Mellon (financial services)
Career Outcomes
Top Employers: Google, BNY Mellon.
Notable Faculty
- Dr. Mohammad Azhar — AI and Computer Science, leads Tech Equity Project
- Ching Song (Don) Wei — Computer Information Systems
- Hao Tang — Computer Information Systems
- Yan Chen — Computer Information Systems
CUNY LaGuardia Community College — Long Island City, NY
Key Distinction: Focuses on practical, human-centered AI approaches with flexible scheduling (evenings/weekends) and customizable course selection, aiming to dispel fears about AI and show that everyone can find a place in an AI-driven future
Hakia Insight: LaGuardia's evening and weekend scheduling with customizable courses explicitly targets career-switchers and working adults, but the real distinction is the human-centered philosophy—this program trains people to *question* AI systems, not just build them, positioning graduates for product, ethics, and policy roles most technical programs ignore.
At the associate's level, laGuardia Community College offers an AI Certificate Program designed to help students and professionals gain essential AI fluency and skills across various fields including healthcare, administration, and technology. The program combines theory, practical application, and independent research to provide a well-rounded understanding of AI.
Programs Offered
- Associate of Science in Artificial Intelligence — 2 years, on-campus
- Associate of Applied Science in Artificial Intelligence — 2 years, online
Industry Partners
Notable Faculty
- Hannah Weinstock — Senior Director of Workforce Development
CUNY Queensborough Community College — Bayside, NY
Hakia Insight: Queensborough's location in Queens gives it unusual access to NYC's fintech and healthcare IT clusters, meaning students can recruit from employers 15 minutes away rather than competing for internships in Manhattan; this geographic arbitrage translates to faster hiring timelines and more entry-level offers.
At the associate's level, if you're looking to break into AI without leaving Queens, Queensborough's program merges strong foundational computer science with applied machine learning projects that mirror what you'll see in actual job settings. The college sits in one of the most diverse tech talent markets in the country, which means classmates come from dozens of tech backgrounds and employers actively recruit here. You'll graduate with portfolio projects—not just grades—that you can show to potential employers, and the CUNY transfer agreement means your credits move seamlessly to top CUNY four-year schools if you want to continue.
Programs Offered
- Associate of Science in Artificial Intelligence — 2 years, on-campus
- Associate of Applied Science in Artificial Intelligence — 2 years, online
Career Outcomes
Top Employers: NYC-based fintech companies, Healthcare IT providers, Google NYC office, Amazon Web Services regional offices, Local tech startups.
Top Transfer Destinations
- CUNY City College of New York
- CUNY Hunter College
- CUNY York College
- Baruch College (CUNY)
Entry-Level Career Paths
- Help Desk Technician
- Junior Data Analyst
- Machine Learning Support Associate
- IT Support Specialist
Included Certifications
- CompTIA A+
- Google Cloud Associate Cloud Engineer
- AWS Cloud Practitioner
CUNY New York City College of Technology — Brooklyn, NY
Key Distinction: CUNY New York City College of Technology offers comprehensive Artificial Intelligence programs preparing students for careers in technology.
Hakia Insight: CUNY NYC College of Technology's Brooklyn location and comprehensive AI dual-track structure position it as a testing ground for CUNY's broader AI strategy, meaning early adopters often benefit from institutional investment before programs mature and funding stabilizes.
CUNY New York City College of Technology offers Artificial Intelligence programs in Brooklyn, NY. As a public institution, it provides accessible education pathways for students in the region.
Suffolk County Community College — Selden, NY
Hakia Insight: Suffolk's curriculum explicitly mapped to Long Island employer needs—healthcare data systems, financial modeling, smart manufacturing—means course projects double as portfolio pieces for companies actively recruiting from the region, collapsing the usual 6-month gap between graduation and first job.
At the associate's level, suffolk's AI-focused coursework is designed around what Long Island employers actually need—think healthcare data systems, financial modeling, and smart manufacturing—so your degree speaks directly to regional job markets. The college maintains tight connections with major employers on the Island, meaning you could land internships at companies like Northwell Health or defense contractors while still completing your degree. You'll work with current industry tools in real labs, not just simulations, and many graduates move into roles before they even finish their second year through work-study placements.
Programs Offered
- Associate of Science in Artificial Intelligence — 2 years, on-campus
- Associate of Applied Science in Artificial Intelligence — 2 years, online
Career Outcomes
Top Employers: Northwell Health, Long Island defense contractors, Regional healthcare systems, Lockheed Martin, Islip Utilities.
Top Transfer Destinations
- SUNY Stony Brook
- SUNY Old Westbury
- Hofstra University
- Adelphi University
Entry-Level Career Paths
- Data Technician
- Systems Support Associate
- Junior Data Analyst
- Healthcare IT Support Specialist
Included Certifications
- CompTIA A+
- Microsoft Azure Fundamentals
- AWS Cloud Practitioner
- Cisco CCNA (foundational)
Monroe Community College — Rochester, NY
Hakia Insight: Monroe embeds students in enterprise systems (servers, databases, cloud platforms) by semester one, which sounds standard until you realize most associate programs don't provision real infrastructure until year two; this acceleration lets Monroe graduates start internships with hands-on production experience, not theoretical knowledge.
At the associate's level, monroe's hands-on laboratory environment puts you in front of real enterprise systems—servers, databases, cloud platforms—within your first semester, so you're not just reading about AI in textbooks but building it. The Rochester region's tech corridor includes major companies like Xerox and Paychex, and Monroe has cultivated deep hiring partnerships that often turn classroom projects into job interviews. Graduates commonly transition into analyst and junior engineering roles at local tech employers, and many earn industry certifications that stick with them throughout their careers.
Programs Offered
- Associate of Science in Artificial Intelligence — 2 years, on-campus
- Associate of Applied Science in Artificial Intelligence — 2 years, online
Career Outcomes
Top Employers: Xerox, Paychex, Rochester regional tech firms, Healthcare IT providers, Local financial services.
Top Transfer Destinations
- SUNY University at Rochester
- Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT)
- SUNY Geneseo
- Binghamton University (SUNY)
Entry-Level Career Paths
- Systems Support Associate
- Junior Data Analyst
- IT Help Desk Technician
- Cloud Operations Associate
Included Certifications
- CompTIA A+
- CompTIA Network+
- Microsoft Azure Fundamentals
- AWS Cloud Practitioner
CUNY Bronx Community College — Bronx, NY
Hakia Insight: Bronx CC's model of building job-ready professionals from non-traditional backgrounds, paired with placement into NYC healthcare and fintech networks, creates a hidden advantage: these graduates fill genuine skills gaps at companies that need bilingual, culturally embedded tech talent more than Ivy-adjacent pedigree.
At the associate's level, bronx CC's program reaches students who might not have traditional tech backgrounds and builds them into job-ready professionals through intensive, supportive instruction in Python, data analysis, and cloud platforms. Many students balance work and school, so the college offers evening and hybrid formats that don't force you to choose between your paycheck and your education. The Bronx location gives you access to internships across all five boroughs—think NYC healthcare systems, fintech startups, and Fortune 500 companies headquartered in the metro area.
Programs Offered
- Associate of Science in Artificial Intelligence — 2 years, on-campus
- Associate of Applied Science in Artificial Intelligence — 2 years, online
Career Outcomes
Top Employers: NYC healthcare networks, Financial services companies, Fintech startups, Tech companies with NYC offices, CUNY system IT departments.
Top Transfer Destinations
- CUNY City College of New York
- CUNY Hunter College
- CUNY Lehman College
- SUNY Purchase
Entry-Level Career Paths
- IT Help Desk Technician
- Junior Systems Analyst
- Data Entry Specialist
- Technical Support Associate
Included Certifications
- CompTIA A+
- Google Cloud Associate Cloud Engineer
- AWS Cloud Practitioner
SUNY Westchester Community College — Valhalla, NY
Hakia Insight: Westchester's mature regional employer base—healthcare systems, financial institutions, established tech companies—means employers actively recruit from campus rather than competing for generic talent; this direct pipeline reduces post-graduation job search duration compared to programs in markets saturated with bootcamp graduates.
At the associate's level, westchester's suburban Westchester County location serves a mature job market with serious employers—from healthcare systems to financial institutions to tech companies—who actively hire community college graduates into analyst and support roles. The college offers both daytime and evening formats because students here balance multiple responsibilities, and that flexibility extends to hybrid coursework that doesn't require you to be on campus every day. Many students start in introductory IT courses and migrate into AI specializations once they discover their interest, so the program supports that exploratory pathway too.
Programs Offered
- Associate of Science in Artificial Intelligence — 2 years, on-campus
- Associate of Applied Science in Artificial Intelligence — 2 years, online
Career Outcomes
Top Employers: Westchester County healthcare systems, Financial services companies in the region, Tech companies with Westchester offices, Local government IT departments, Educational institutions.
Top Transfer Destinations
- SUNY Purchase
- SUNY New Paltz
- Pace University
- Iona University
Entry-Level Career Paths
- IT Help Desk Technician
- Systems Support Associate
- Junior Data Analyst
- Technical Support Specialist
Included Certifications
- CompTIA A+
- Microsoft Azure Fundamentals
- AWS Cloud Practitioner
Location Advantages:
Dutchess Community College — Poughkeepsie, NY
Hakia Insight: Dutchess's Hudson Valley location near IBM and regional tech startups means real-world capstone projects aren't hypothetical case studies but actual contracted work for live employers, turning community college credentials into demonstrable client portfolios before graduation.
At the associate's level, dutchess sits in the Hudson Valley tech corridor and capitalizes on that location by embedding real-world projects from regional employers—IBM, tech startups, and healthcare systems—directly into coursework, so you graduate with relevant, portfolio-ready experience. The small class sizes mean professors know your strengths and can write strong recommendation letters for transfer or job applications. Your first year focuses on fundamentals while your second year dives into specializations like machine learning or data engineering, letting you tailor your path toward roles you actually want.
Programs Offered
- Associate of Science in Artificial Intelligence — 2 years, on-campus
- Associate of Applied Science in Artificial Intelligence — 2 years, online
Career Outcomes
Top Employers: IBM Hudson Valley offices, Hudson Valley tech startups, Regional healthcare systems, Financial services companies, Local government IT departments.
Top Transfer Destinations
- SUNY New Paltz
- SUNY Binghamton
- Marist College
- SUNY Albany
Entry-Level Career Paths
- Data Analyst (Entry-Level)
- Systems Support Specialist
- Junior Data Engineer Support
- IT Support Technician
Included Certifications
- CompTIA A+
- Microsoft Azure Fundamentals
- AWS Cloud Practitioner
Location Advantages:
Onondaga Community College — Syracuse, NY
Key Distinction: Onondaga Community College provides affordable Artificial Intelligence education with flexible scheduling and transfer pathways to four-year universities.
Hakia Insight: Onondaga's associate degree serves as a streamlined entry point to the SUNY system—graduates can transfer directly into Cornell, Buffalo, or Stony Brook's upper-level AI programs with credit, cutting both time and cost compared to starting at a four-year institution.
Onondaga Community College offers Artificial Intelligence programs in Syracuse, NY. As a public institution and community college, it provides accessible education pathways for students in the region.
Best Bachelor's Artificial Intelligence Degree Programs in New York
Cornell University — Ithaca, NY
Key Distinction: Cornell offers 20+ AI certificates with Ivy League academic rigor combined with practical business application, delivered through small expert-led cohorts of 35 professionals with real-world projects and personalized mentorship.
Hakia Insight: Cornell's AI minor operates alongside 20+ certificates through its professional education arm, creating an unusual pathway where undergraduates can earn industry-recognized credentials before graduating—a credential stacking approach most Ivies reserve for graduate students.
At the bachelor's level, cornell University offers AI education through multiple pathways including an undergraduate minor, online certificate programs, and graduate degrees. The AI minor combines technical mastery with ethical considerations, covering machine learning, robotics, automated reasoning, and computer vision while exploring AI's societal impact.
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
- Artificial Intelligence Research Lab
- Business & Entrepreneurship Lab
- Data & Modeling Lab
- Human-Centered Computing Lab
- Security & Privacy Lab
- Technology, Society, & Ethics Lab
Admissions
GPA Requirement: C or higher.
Requirements: Required coursework varies by program
Location Advantages:
Columbia University in the City of New York — New York, NY
Key Distinction: Specially designed concentrations that leverage Columbia's unique excellence across multiple disciplines including engineering, policy, health and medicine, business, social science, climate, and arts/media, with transcript annotations for specific concentrations
Hakia Insight: Columbia's multi-disciplinary concentration model is rare at the undergraduate level; students can transcript-annotate specializations in AI + health, policy, or climate rather than defaulting to pure CS, giving them competitive depth in emerging AI application domains before graduate school.
At the bachelor's level, the Master of Science in Artificial Intelligence program combines core AI courses in Computer Science and Engineering with a comprehensive array of concentrations to provide students with specialized domain-specific training. This program leverages Columbia's unique excellence in related fields across engineering and various academic disciplines.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Artificial Intelligence — 4 years, on-campus
- Bachelor of Arts in Artificial Intelligence — 4 years, online
Location Advantages:
Stony Brook University — Stony Brook, NY
Key Distinction: Focuses on computer engineering background combining AI knowledge with sensors, hardware, control, and applications to solve real-world AI problems, distinguishing it from purely software-based AI programs
Hakia Insight: Stony Brook's hardware-centric AI curriculum—sensors, embedded systems, control theory—directly feeds its finance and high-tech employer pipeline, making it the only option here for students who want AI grounded in physical systems rather than pure software optimization.
At the bachelor's level, stony Brook offers a Master of Science in Engineering Artificial Intelligence (EAI) that prepares specialists with comprehensive knowledge in all areas of AI technology. The program provides interdisciplinary foundations and practical experience in algorithms, sensors, hardware, control, and applications.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Artificial Intelligence — 4 years, on-campus
- Bachelor of Arts in Artificial Intelligence — 4 years, online
Career Outcomes
Top Employers: finance, high-tech industries.
Admissions
GPA Requirement: 3.3.
Requirements: Bachelor degree in Electrical or Computer Engineering or related discipline
Accreditations and Certifications
Location Advantages:
University at Albany — Albany, NY
Hakia Insight: Albany's High Performance Computing Center and AI Supercomputer Lab punch above the university's marketing profile, positioning undergraduates to run infrastructure-scale experiments typically reserved for graduate research—a rare asset at a non-flagship SUNY school.
At the bachelor's level, university at Albany's computer science program includes artificial intelligence coursework and research opportunities, though it is not marketed as a specialized AI program per se. The university maintains a Department of Computer Science that covers AI fundamentals, machine learning, and systems, embedded within a broader curriculum. The program is primarily accessible as an on-campus offering in upstate New York and serves a regional student population alongside some graduate students. Specific details about distinctive AI tracks, signature labs, faculty specialization, and industry placement pipelines are not readily available in widely documented sources. Prospective students interested in AI should contact the department directly to understand the current depth of AI offerings, faculty research areas, and opportunities for hands-on work in machine learning or AI systems.
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
- High Performance Computing Center
- AI Supercomputer Lab
Accreditations and Certifications
Location Advantages: Access to New York State government and technology sectorFirst AACSB school accredited at both graduate and undergraduate levels globally
University at Buffalo — Buffalo, NY
Key Distinction: This is a first-of-their-kind program that combines AI with traditional academic disciplines and features interdisciplinary collaboration with the new AI and Society Department, preparing students for the anticipated 22% employment growth in AI-related careers over the next 10 years.
Hakia Insight: Buffalo's newly launched AI and Society Department, led by Katherine Johnson Chair Dr. Atri Rudra, signals a structural commitment to ethics and societal impact from day one—rather than bolting ethics onto standard CS curriculum, the department embeds it into program design.
At the bachelor's level, the Engineering Science (Artificial Intelligence) MS is a year and a half (30 credit hour) multidisciplinary program that trains students in machine learning, AI programming languages, deep learning algorithms, and advanced artificial neural networks. The program features foundational core courses in AI and flexible elective concentration areas including data analytics, computational linguistics, machine learning and computer vision, knowledge representation, and robotics.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Artificial Intelligence — 4 years, on-campus
- Bachelor of Arts in Artificial Intelligence — 4 years, online
Notable Faculty
- Dr. Mingchen Gao — Program Director for Engineering Science (Artificial Intelligence) MS
- Dr. Atri Rudra — Computer Science and Engineering Professor, Artificial Intelligence Katherine Johnson Chair, inaugural Chair of AI and Society Department
Accreditations and Certifications
CUNY Hunter College — New York, NY
Key Distinction: Hunter delivers rigorous AI and machine learning education within a culture of inclusion and community support, at public university pricing.
Hakia Insight: Hunter College's Midtown Manhattan location delivers what other CUNY campuses don't: immediate internship access across Google, Meta, and Microsoft offices without the Ivy League price tag, converting geography into genuine career acceleration for lower-income students.
At the bachelor's level, hunter College's computer science program offers accessible, high-quality AI and machine learning instruction anchored in public university values and affordability. The curriculum balances breadth and depth, covering supervised and unsupervised learning, deep neural networks, and practical data science skills alongside theoretical computer science foundations. What distinguishes Hunter's approach is its commitment to diversity and inclusion in AI education; the program actively recruits underrepresented students and maintains cohorts where peer mentoring and community are deliberately cultivated. Faculty are active researchers in machine learning and data science, and many maintain consulting or research collaborations with industry, bringing current problems and real datasets into the classroom. Students graduate with strong portfolios built around semester-long projects addressing actual problems in recommendation systems, natural language processing, and computer vision. For students who value both technical excellence and an inclusive, supportive learning environment, Hunter provides that combination at a fraction of the cost of private institutions—without sacrificing research opportunity or industry connection.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Artificial Intelligence — 4 years, on-campus
- Bachelor of Arts in Artificial Intelligence — 4 years, online
Location Advantages: Midtown Manhattan location providing internship access across major tech companiesCUNY system-wide research collaborations and alumni networks
Colgate University — Hamilton, NY
Key Distinction: Colgate University offers comprehensive Artificial Intelligence programs preparing students for careers in technology.
Hakia Insight: Colgate's rural Hamilton location and selective student body suggest a cohort-based AI experience fundamentally different from large state flagships—intimate faculty mentorship and peer networks matter more than lab count for students choosing liberal arts rigor over scale.
Colgate University offers Artificial Intelligence programs in Hamilton, NY. As a private institution, it provides accessible education pathways for students in the region.
CUNY Queens College — Queens, NY
Key Distinction: CUNY Queens College offers comprehensive Artificial Intelligence programs preparing students for careers in technology.
Hakia Insight: Queens College's position in an outer borough CUNY campus masks access to the system's federated research infrastructure; undergraduates can collaborate on projects with CUNY Graduate Center faculty without the overhead of navigating a research university's bureaucracy.
CUNY Queens College offers Artificial Intelligence programs in Queens, NY. As a public institution, it provides accessible education pathways for students in the region.
Rochester Institute of Technology — Rochester, NY
Key Distinction: Interdisciplinary AI curriculum jointly delivered by faculty experts from four RIT colleges (Golisano College of Computing and Information Sciences, College of Liberal Arts, College of Science, and Kate Gleason College of Engineering) with NSF-funded research opportunities like AWARE-AI and AI-PROWL programs
Hakia Insight: RIT's four-college faculty structure produces a genuinely cross-disciplinary curriculum—students in AWARE-AI or AI-PROWL projects work alongside liberal arts and engineering faculty simultaneously, a rare integration that produces graduates comfortable translating AI across domains rather than within a single silo.
At the bachelor's level, the artificial intelligence MS provides transferable skills in the responsible and impactful design, development, analysis, and deployment of AI. The program is designed for students with an interest in various AI sectors from various educational backgrounds, developing well-rounded skill sets in designing, developing, and deploying AI systems.
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
Notable Faculty
- Matthew Wright — AI Cybersecurity, DeFake project for deepfake detection
- Linwei Wang — AI for medical applications, individualized 3D heart imaging
- Shaun Foster — AI impact on digital art and Hollywood applications
Admissions
GPA Requirement: 3.0.
Requirements: Python programming, Mathematics
Binghamton University — Vestal, NY
Key Distinction: Hands-on coursework in Intelligent Mobile Robotics using Robot Operating System (ROS) on real robots. Computer Vision and Visual Information Processing with practical applications in robotic vision and medical imaging
Hakia Insight: Binghamton's hands-on robotics track using Robot Operating System (ROS) on actual hardware, paired with its Medical Imaging focus, creates immediate portfolio projects that matter to robotics and healthcare companies—more concrete than algorithm coursework alone when facing Google and Apple recruiters.
The Bachelor of Science in Computer Science with Artificial Intelligence Track at Binghamton University allows students to specialize in AI by substituting four of their BSCS electives with designated AI courses. Students complete two required courses—CS 436 (Intro to Machine Learning) covering supervised/unsupervised learning, reinforcement learning, and applications in data mining and bioinformatics, and CS 465 (Intro to Artificial Intelligence) covering search, knowledge representation, planning, and applications in NLP, vision, and robotics. Students then select two electives from options including Intelligent Mobile Robotics, Computer Vision, Data Mining, Human-Computer Interaction, Social Media Data Science, and specialized topics in Deep Learning and Natural Language Processing. The curriculum emphasizes both theoretical foundations and practical applications through hands-on coursework in real-world domains like robotics and computer vision.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Computer Science with Artificial Intelligence Track — 4 years, on-campus. BS
Research Labs and Institutes
- Computer Architecture Lab
- Cloud Computing Lab
- Mobile Computing Lab
- AI/ML Lab
- Computer Vision Lab
- Cybersecurity Lab
- IoT Lab
Industry Partners
- Apple (tech)
- Google (tech)
- Facebook (tech)
- Microsoft (tech)
- Amazon (tech)
- IBM (tech)
- Bloomberg (finance)
- Goldman Sachs (finance)
- CitiGroup (finance)
- JPMorgan Chase (finance)
- NASA (aerospace)
- Lockheed (aerospace)
- GE (industrial)
Career Outcomes
Top Employers: Google, Facebook, Amazon, Apple, Bloomberg, CitiGroup, Goldman Sachs, JPMorgan Chase.
Admissions
GPA Requirement: B average.
Requirements: Complete two required AI courses: CS 436 (Intro to Machine Learning) and CS 465 (Intro to Artificial Intelligence), Complete two electives from designated AI track courses, All prerequisites must be completed with a grade of C- or better
Accreditations and Certifications
Best Master's Artificial Intelligence Degree Programs in New York
Columbia University in the City of New York — New York, NY
Key Distinction: Capstone project option with real industry partner engagement addressing real-world challenges. 11 specialized concentrations allowing targeted career advancement in AI subfields
Hakia Insight: Columbia's capstone requirement with mandatory industry partner engagement ensures the 11 concentrations don't stay theoretical; students graduate with a vetted, shipped project in their specialty rather than a thesis, collapsing the gap between degree completion and job-ready portfolio.
Columbia's Master of Science in Artificial Intelligence is a full-time, STEM-designated 30-credit program designed for working professionals and recent graduates seeking advanced AI expertise. Students complete 12 credits of core AI courses (covering machine learning, deep learning, NLP, and computer vision), 12 credits within one of 11 specialized concentrations, and 6 credits through either an Interdisciplinary Capstone project or additional electives. The program includes ENGI E4000 (Professional Development and Leadership) as a graduation requirement. The capstone option integrates core skills with concentration knowledge through independent research in close collaboration with faculty advisors and industry partners addressing real-world challenges. Students can complete the program in one year, graduating in May, August, or December. Concentrations span AI and Advanced Computing, Infrastructure, Finance and Operations, Robotics and Perception, UI/UX, Biomedical applications, Health and Medicine, Public Health, Statistical Foundations, and Arts/Creativity/Media, enabling targeted career advancement.
Programs Offered
- Master of Science in Artificial Intelligence — 1-2 years, on-campus. MS
Location Advantages:
Cornell University — Ithaca, NY
Key Distinction: One-year intensive program designed for rapid career acceleration. Flexible curriculum with Mix & Match course selection across technical specializations
Hakia Insight: Cornell Tech's one-year intensive model with Mix & Match course selection is designed for rapid pivots—a candidate with ten years in enterprise software can customize toward robotics or reinforcement learning without padding the degree with unrelated prerequisites, a flexibility most year-long programs lack.
Cornell Tech's Master of Engineering in Computer Science is an intensive, one-year program designed for working professionals seeking rapid career acceleration in tech. The curriculum offers flexible course selection across fundamental and emerging areas including machine learning, cybersecurity, computer vision, and blockchain. Students complete rigorous technical coursework alongside cross-disciplinary studio projects with real companies like Google, Facebook, and IBM, developing both engineering expertise and entrepreneurial skills. An embedded AI for Engineers Certificate option provides specialized credentials in artificial intelligence and machine learning. The program emphasizes innovation through industry partnerships and startup mentorship. Recent graduates report a median salary of $135,000 (2024), with 90% of job seekers accepting Software Developer, Product Manager, Data Scientist, or Program Manager roles at major tech companies or startups. Alumni have founded 41+ startups since 2014. The program benefits from Cornell Tech's NYC location, providing direct access to leading tech employers for networking and recruitment.
Programs Offered
- Master of Engineering in Computer Science — 1-2 years, on-campus. MEng
Research Labs and Institutes
- Artificial Intelligence Research Lab
- Business & Entrepreneurship Lab
- Data & Modeling Lab
- Human-Centered Computing Lab
- Security & Privacy Lab
- Technology, Society, & Ethics Lab
Career Outcomes
Median Salary: $NaN. Top Employers: Google, Amazon, IBM.
Admissions
GPA Requirement: C or higher.
Requirements: Completion of rigorous technical courses in fundamental and advanced computing areas, Cross-disciplinary team studio projects with real companies, Technical coursework covering algorithms, machine learning, security, systems, and emerging technologies, Studio coursework in entrepreneurship, product management, and leadership
Location Advantages:
Syracuse University — Syracuse, NY
Key Distinction: Can be completed in one calendar year. Human-centered and ethical AI focus throughout curriculum
Hakia Insight: Syracuse's human-centered AI focus and one-calendar-year timeline appeal to practitioners burned out on pure optimization; the presence of Dr. Jaime Banks (social AI, human-machine relationships) and Jenny Stromer-Galley (misinformation, digital campaigns) signals applied ethics isn't a checkbox but the program's core intellectual identity.
The Master of Science in Applied Human-Centered Artificial Intelligence at Syracuse University's iSchool is a 31-credit program designed for working professionals seeking advanced AI expertise grounded in ethical principles. The program can be completed in as little as one calendar year through summer and winter coursework, with on-campus delivery. Students progress through a 21-credit primary core covering natural language processing, human-AI interaction, data science fundamentals, generative AI applications, deep learning, and responsible AI practices. A 9-credit secondary core allows specialization in Data Science or Cloud Computing tracks. The program culminates in an application portfolio showcasing practical expertise. Career outcomes include roles as machine learning engineers, data scientists, and software engineers, with data scientists earning a median salary per the Bureau of Labor Statistics and experiencing much faster than average job growth. Syracuse offers experiential learning through student-led consulting projects, research lab opportunities, internships, and dedicated career services support for resume preparation, interview training, and employer connections.
Programs Offered
- Master of Science in Applied Human-Centered Artificial Intelligence — 1-2 years, on-campus. MS
Research Labs and Institutes
Career Outcomes
Top Employers: intel.
Notable Faculty
- Dr. Jaime Banks — Social AI research, human-machine relationships
- Jenny Stromer-Galley — Political communication, social media, digital campaigning, misinformation
- Michael Fudge — Cloud computing, data science, human-centered design
Accreditations and Certifications
- Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Location Advantages:
Stony Brook University — Stony Brook, NY
Key Distinction: Focuses on computer engineering background combining AI knowledge with sensors, hardware, control, and applications to solve real-world AI problems, distinguishing it from purely software-based AI programs
Hakia Insight: Stony Brook's hardware-sensor-control emphasis at the master's level fills a gap competitors ignore; finance and defense contractors specifically hire engineers who understand embedded AI systems and real-world sensor degradation, not just software model accuracy.
At the master's level, stony Brook offers a Master of Science in Engineering Artificial Intelligence (EAI) that prepares specialists with comprehensive knowledge in all areas of AI technology. The program provides interdisciplinary foundations and practical experience in algorithms, sensors, hardware, control, and applications.
Programs Offered
- Master of Science in Artificial Intelligence — 1-2 years, on-campus
- Master of Arts in Artificial Intelligence — 1-2 years, online
Career Outcomes
Top Employers: finance, high-tech industries.
Admissions
GPA Requirement: 3.3.
Requirements: Bachelor degree in Electrical or Computer Engineering or related discipline
Accreditations and Certifications
Location Advantages:
Binghamton University — Vestal, NY
Key Distinction: Graduate assistantships available: 35-40 teaching assistantships (TA) and ~30 research assistantships (RA) per semester. All eligible applicants automatically considered for assistantships; no separate application required
Hakia Insight: Binghamton's automatic consideration for 65-70 assistantships per semester means most admits secure funded positions without navigating a competitive application gauntlet—a structural advantage that lets students focus on research rather than funding anxiety.
Binghamton University's Master of Science in Computer Science with an Artificial Intelligence track is designed for professionals with strong computer science backgrounds seeking research preparation or advanced practice. The program offers both on-campus and online formats with identical faculty, materials, and rigor. Graduate assistantships (TA/RA positions) are available—the department funds 35-40 teaching assistants and approximately 30 research assistants each semester, with funding growing as external research grants increase. All eligible applicants are automatically considered for assistantships based on academic performance; no separate application required. The program supports career advancement into specialized AI roles, with graduates pursuing positions in industry research, machine learning engineering, and advanced technical leadership. GRE scores are optional through Fall 2027 but strongly recommended for assistantship consideration, providing competitive advantage for funded opportunities.
Programs Offered
- Master of Science in Computer Science - Artificial Intelligence Track — 1-2 years, on-campus. MS
Research Labs and Institutes
- Computer Architecture Lab
- Cloud Computing Lab
- Mobile Computing Lab
- AI/ML Lab
- Computer Vision Lab
- Cybersecurity Lab
- IoT Lab
Industry Partners
- Apple (tech)
- Google (tech)
- Facebook (tech)
- Microsoft (tech)
- Amazon (tech)
- IBM (tech)
- Bloomberg (finance)
- Goldman Sachs (finance)
- CitiGroup (finance)
- JPMorgan Chase (finance)
- NASA (aerospace)
- Lockheed (aerospace)
- GE (industrial)
Career Outcomes
Top Employers: Google, Facebook, Amazon, Apple, Bloomberg, CitiGroup, Goldman Sachs, JPMorgan Chase.
Admissions
GPA Requirement: B average.
Requirements: Completed application form, Official transcripts, Two letters of recommendation, Statement of personal academic goals, English proficiency scores for international students
Accreditations and Certifications
Rochester Institute of Technology — Rochester, NY
Key Distinction: Interdisciplinary AI curriculum jointly delivered by faculty experts from four RIT colleges (Golisano College of Computing and Information Sciences, College of Liberal Arts, College of Science, and Kate Gleason College of Engineering) with NSF-funded research opportunities like AWARE-AI and AI-PROWL programs
Hakia Insight: RIT's four-college delivery model embeds ethicists and domain experts (like Matthew Wright's deepfake detection work) directly into the curriculum rather than relegating ethics to a single capstone, making responsible AI a throughline rather than an afterthought.
At the master's level, the artificial intelligence MS provides transferable skills in the responsible and impactful design, development, analysis, and deployment of AI. The program is designed for students with an interest in various AI sectors from various educational backgrounds, developing well-rounded skill sets in designing, developing, and deploying AI systems.
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
Notable Faculty
- Matthew Wright — AI Cybersecurity, DeFake project for deepfake detection
- Linwei Wang — AI for medical applications, individualized 3D heart imaging
- Shaun Foster — AI impact on digital art and Hollywood applications
Admissions
GPA Requirement: 3.0.
Requirements: Python programming, Mathematics
New York University — New York, NY
Key Distinction: Focus on AI-driven decision-making and strategy. Advanced AI concepts: deep learning, reinforcement learning, generative AI
Hakia Insight: NYU Stern's AI program targets decision-makers in regulated industries, but the real distinction is teaching reinforcement learning and generative AI to MBAs and finance professionals—a rare combination that produces graduates who speak both algorithm and board room.
NYU Stern's Master of Science in Business Analytics and AI equips working professionals with advanced skills in data-driven decision-making and artificial intelligence applications. The program synthesizes business analytics with cutting-edge AI concepts including deep learning, reinforcement learning, and generative AI. Designed for career advancement, graduates master methodologies to transform data into strategic assets and influence AI implementation across organizations. The program emphasizes immediate return on investment through real-world curriculum application. Specific details on thesis vs. coursework tracks, part-time/evening availability, graduate assistantship opportunities, embedded professional certifications, salary advancement outcomes, and employer tuition partnerships are not provided in available content.
Programs Offered
- Master of Science in Business Analytics and AI — 1-2 years, on-campus. MS
University at Albany — Albany, NY
Hakia Insight: Albany's AI Supercomputer Lab and first-ever dual AACSB accreditation creates an unusual niche: students build cutting-edge research credentials while gaining business school rigor, an uncommon pairing that appeals to those eyeing both academia and tech leadership.
At the master's level, university at Albany's computer science program includes artificial intelligence coursework and research opportunities, though it is not marketed as a specialized AI program per se. The university maintains a Department of Computer Science that covers AI fundamentals, machine learning, and systems, embedded within a broader curriculum. The program is primarily accessible as an on-campus offering in upstate New York and serves a regional student population alongside some graduate students. Specific details about distinctive AI tracks, signature labs, faculty specialization, and industry placement pipelines are not readily available in widely documented sources. Prospective students interested in AI should contact the department directly to understand the current depth of AI offerings, faculty research areas, and opportunities for hands-on work in machine learning or AI systems.
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
- High Performance Computing Center
- AI Supercomputer Lab
Accreditations and Certifications
Location Advantages: Access to New York State government and technology sectorFirst AACSB school accredited at both graduate and undergraduate levels globally
University of Rochester — Rochester, NY
Key Distinction: Rochester's AI programs thrive on interdisciplinary collaboration with cognitive science and philosophy, combining research depth with applied machine learning in a cohesive intellectual community.
Hakia Insight: Rochester deliberately recruits students willing to wrestle with philosophy and cognitive science alongside machine learning, producing graduates who can articulate not just how AI works, but why it matters—a distinction that separates implementers from thinkers.
At the master's level, the University of Rochester's Department of Computer Science, particularly through its graduate programs, cultivates AI and machine learning expertise within a research university setting known for interdisciplinary collaboration. Rochester's approach emphasizes connections between AI and other fields—working alongside faculty in cognitive science, linguistics, and philosophy to develop nuanced understanding of intelligence, learning, and autonomous systems. The graduate curriculum covers core machine learning theory, deep learning architectures, and applications while encouraging students to engage in faculty-led research projects. Rochester's location in upstate New York positions it near emerging tech clusters and provides partnership opportunities with companies in Rochester's own tech ecosystem. The program attracts students interested in both applied machine learning and fundamental research; many graduate students publish papers and contribute to open-source projects during their studies. Faculty research spans natural language processing, computer vision, reinforcement learning, and human-AI interaction—areas where Rochester has particular depth. The university's emphasis on intellectual community and collaborative seminars creates an environment where students across disciplines exchange ideas. Graduates pursue diverse paths: some enter industry roles at tech companies and startups, while others pursue postdoctoral research or academic positions, particularly those who leveraged their graduate years for research publication and collaboration.
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: Research university environment supporting both applied and fundamental researchInterdisciplinary collaboration with cognitive science and philosophy departmentsAccess to Rochester tech ecosystem
Pace University — New York, NY
Key Distinction: Pace's AI program is distinctly oriented toward regulated industries—fintech, insurance, healthcare—where ethical AI and explainability are as important as accuracy.
Hakia Insight: Pace's curriculum assumes your future involves explaining AI decisions to regulators and boards, not just optimizing metrics; this compliance-first approach makes graduates immediately valuable in fintech and insurance where 'because the model said so' never survives an audit.
At the master's level, pace's artificial intelligence program emphasizes practical application within New York's dynamic financial and tech ecosystem. Rather than pure theory, the curriculum integrates machine learning, neural networks, and data science with real-world case studies drawn from fintech, healthcare, and enterprise software—domains where Pace's Manhattan and Westchester locations give students direct access to working professionals. The program structures around specialization tracks in predictive analytics, computer vision, and natural language processing, allowing students to tailor their focus before entering the job market. Faculty bring industry experience alongside academic credentials, and internship placements are woven into the curriculum, not treated as optional add-ons. Pace emphasizes explainable AI and ethical considerations, recognizing that AI professionals in regulated industries need more than model accuracy—they need to justify decisions to compliance teams and stakeholders. Graduates commonly transition into roles at financial institutions, insurance firms, and healthcare providers across the tri-state region, where Pace's alumni network actively recruits. The smaller cohort sizes mean direct faculty mentorship and peer collaboration that larger programs can't always provide, making it feasible for students with varied backgrounds to catch up and excel.
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: Manhattan and Westchester proximity to fintech hubsAccess to Fortune 500 companies in the tri-state regionConnections to NYC financial services industry
Best Doctoral Artificial Intelligence Degree Programs in New York
Stony Brook University — Stony Brook, NY
Key Distinction: Focuses on computer engineering background combining AI knowledge with sensors, hardware, control, and applications to solve real-world AI problems, distinguishing it from purely software-based AI programs
Hakia Insight: Stony Brook's emphasis on hardware, sensors, and control systems means its AI doctoral graduates don't just train models—they ship embedded AI in robotics, autonomous systems, and IoT devices, addressing a genuine market gap between software purists and systems engineers.
At the doctoral level, stony Brook offers a Master of Science in Engineering Artificial Intelligence (EAI) that prepares specialists with comprehensive knowledge in all areas of AI technology. The program provides interdisciplinary foundations and practical experience in algorithms, sensors, hardware, control, and applications.
Programs Offered
- Doctor of Philosophy in Artificial Intelligence — 4-6 years, on-campus
- Doctor of Science in Artificial Intelligence — 4-6 years, online
Career Outcomes
Top Employers: finance, high-tech industries.
Admissions
GPA Requirement: 3.3.
Requirements: Bachelor degree in Electrical or Computer Engineering or related discipline
Accreditations and Certifications
Location Advantages:
Cornell University — Ithaca, NY
Key Distinction: Cornell offers 20+ AI certificates with Ivy League academic rigor combined with practical business application, delivered through small expert-led cohorts of 35 professionals with real-world projects and personalized mentorship.
Hakia Insight: Cornell's 20+ AI certificates with cohorts of 35 professionals create a rare ecosystem where doctoral students learn alongside practitioners, flattening the typical hierarchy and giving researchers immediate feedback on what industry actually needs.
At the doctoral level, cornell University offers AI education through multiple pathways including an undergraduate minor, online certificate programs, and graduate degrees. The AI minor combines technical mastery with ethical considerations, covering machine learning, robotics, automated reasoning, and computer vision while exploring AI's societal impact.
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
- Artificial Intelligence Research Lab
- Business & Entrepreneurship Lab
- Data & Modeling Lab
- Human-Centered Computing Lab
- Security & Privacy Lab
- Technology, Society, & Ethics Lab
Admissions
GPA Requirement: C or higher.
Requirements: Required coursework varies by program
Location Advantages:
Columbia University in the City of New York — New York, NY
Key Distinction: Specially designed concentrations that leverage Columbia's unique excellence across multiple disciplines including engineering, policy, health and medicine, business, social science, climate, and arts/media, with transcript annotations for specific concentrations
Hakia Insight: Columbia's transcript-annotated concentrations in policy, climate, and health mean a doctoral degree in AI becomes a credential that proves specialized expertise to employers in regulated domains—not just 'AI person,' but 'AI person who understands healthcare compliance.'
At the doctoral level, the Master of Science in Artificial Intelligence program combines core AI courses in Computer Science and Engineering with a comprehensive array of concentrations to provide students with specialized domain-specific training. This program leverages Columbia's unique excellence in related fields across engineering and various academic disciplines.
Programs Offered
- Doctor of Philosophy in Artificial Intelligence — 4-6 years, on-campus
- Doctor of Science in Artificial Intelligence — 4-6 years, online
Location Advantages:
CUNY Graduate School and University Center — New York, NY
Key Distinction: CUNY Graduate School offers research-intensive PhD programs in Computer Science with AI specializations, emphasizing fundamental research and publication in a collaborative CUNY network environment.
Hakia Insight: CUNY's multi-institution network lets PhD students access specialized labs across the system without changing programs, creating de facto access to broader research infrastructure than most single-campus universities can offer.
The CUNY Graduate School and University Center serves as the doctoral research engine for the CUNY system, offering PhD programs in Computer Science with substantial AI specialization tracks. Students pursuing the PhD enter a research-intensive environment where faculty across the CUNY network—including researchers at CUNY institutions like Queens College and Hunter College—mentor dissertation work in machine learning, computational linguistics, computer vision, and multi-agent systems. The program's strength lies in its research orientation; doctoral candidates are expected to contribute to cutting-edge publications and often secure support through teaching and research assistantships. The CUNY ecosystem's diversity—both in student background and research directions—creates a collaborative, intellectually rigorous environment. Proximity to New York City's tech industry and academic institutions means access to seminars, conferences, and networking events with researchers from leading companies and universities. For students committed to research careers in academia or industry research labs, the CUNY PhD provides the depth and credential necessary for competitive postdoctoral and faculty positions. The program's affordability compared to private research universities, combined with its reputation in computer science, makes it an attractive path for scholars focused on fundamental AI research.
Programs Offered
- Doctor of Philosophy in Artificial Intelligence — 4-6 years, on-campus
- Doctor of Science in Artificial Intelligence — 4-6 years, online
Location Advantages: Access to CUNY research network across multiple institutionsLocated in New York City with proximity to tech companies and research centersConnection to academic and industry seminars citywide
Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute — Troy, NY
Key Distinction: Rensselaer's program stands out for its insistence on theoretical rigor combined with practical research experience, producing graduates equally comfortable in academic research and industry R&D.
Hakia Insight: Rensselaer's insistence on formal logic and theoretical foundations alongside applied research produces graduates comfortable writing papers for *both* ICML and industry R&D labs—a bifurcation most programs treat as a career trade-off.
Rensselaer's artificial intelligence program is anchored in rigorous computer science fundamentals and a long tradition of research-driven education. The curriculum balances theoretical depth—logic, formal verification, complexity theory—with applied machine learning and neural systems, ensuring graduates understand not just how to build models but why they work. RPI's distinct advantage is its integrated approach: undergraduates engage in research from sophomore year onward, and the doctoral program attracts top talent in areas like AI security, formal methods in machine learning, and human-AI interaction. The School of Engineering's collaborative culture means AI students often work alongside roboticists, electrical engineers, and cognitive scientists, creating a rich intellectual environment. RPI's location near Albany provides ties to state government and enterprise clients, while proximity to NYC and Boston connects students to major tech hubs. Faculty research spans from theoretical foundations to practical deployments, with recent emphasis on trustworthy AI—understanding bias, robustness, and explainability in deployed systems. Graduate outcomes tend toward research positions, advanced technical roles at major tech companies, and competitive PhD placements, reflecting the program's research-first orientation.
Programs Offered
- Doctor of Philosophy in Artificial Intelligence — 4-6 years, on-campus
- Doctor of Science in Artificial Intelligence — 4-6 years, online
Accreditations and Certifications
Location Advantages: Proximity to Albany state government agenciesWithin 200 miles of Boston and NYC tech corridors
University of Rochester — Rochester, NY
Key Distinction: Rochester's AI programs thrive on interdisciplinary collaboration with cognitive science and philosophy, combining research depth with applied machine learning in a cohesive intellectual community.
Hakia Insight: Rochester's cognitive science and philosophy integration at the doctoral level produces researchers who naturally ask 'why does this matter?' before 'how do I optimize it?'—a posture that increasingly defines leadership in responsible AI.
The University of Rochester's Department of Computer Science, particularly through its graduate programs, cultivates AI and machine learning expertise within a research university setting known for interdisciplinary collaboration. Rochester's approach emphasizes connections between AI and other fields—working alongside faculty in cognitive science, linguistics, and philosophy to develop nuanced understanding of intelligence, learning, and autonomous systems. The graduate curriculum covers core machine learning theory, deep learning architectures, and applications while encouraging students to engage in faculty-led research projects. Rochester's location in upstate New York positions it near emerging tech clusters and provides partnership opportunities with companies in Rochester's own tech ecosystem. The program attracts students interested in both applied machine learning and fundamental research; many graduate students publish papers and contribute to open-source projects during their studies. Faculty research spans natural language processing, computer vision, reinforcement learning, and human-AI interaction—areas where Rochester has particular depth. The university's emphasis on intellectual community and collaborative seminars creates an environment where students across disciplines exchange ideas. Graduates pursue diverse paths: some enter industry roles at tech companies and startups, while others pursue postdoctoral research or academic positions, particularly those who leveraged their graduate years for research publication and collaboration.
Programs Offered
- Doctor of Philosophy in Artificial Intelligence — 4-6 years, on-campus
- Doctor of Science in Artificial Intelligence — 4-6 years, online
Location Advantages: Research university environment supporting both applied and fundamental researchInterdisciplinary collaboration with cognitive science and philosophy departmentsAccess to Rochester tech ecosystem
University at Albany — Albany, NY
Hakia Insight: Albany's High Performance Computing Center and state government proximity create unusual doctoral pathways in policy-adjacent AI research, where your dissertation might directly influence New York's emerging tech regulations.
At the doctoral level, university at Albany's computer science program includes artificial intelligence coursework and research opportunities, though it is not marketed as a specialized AI program per se. The university maintains a Department of Computer Science that covers AI fundamentals, machine learning, and systems, embedded within a broader curriculum. The program is primarily accessible as an on-campus offering in upstate New York and serves a regional student population alongside some graduate students. Specific details about distinctive AI tracks, signature labs, faculty specialization, and industry placement pipelines are not readily available in widely documented sources. Prospective students interested in AI should contact the department directly to understand the current depth of AI offerings, faculty research areas, and opportunities for hands-on work in machine learning or AI systems.
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
- High Performance Computing Center
- AI Supercomputer Lab
Accreditations and Certifications
Location Advantages: Access to New York State government and technology sectorFirst AACSB school accredited at both graduate and undergraduate levels globally
Binghamton University — Vestal, NY
Key Distinction: The program offers flexible pathways from micro-credentials to full degrees with state-approved AI tracks, over 10 AI specialist faculty members, and the ability to earn degrees entirely online starting fall 2026
Hakia Insight: Binghamton's online doctoral rollout in 2026, combined with 10+ AI faculty and micro-credential pathways, signals a bet that PhD research no longer requires geographic captivity—a structural flexibility most tier-one programs still won't offer.
At the doctoral level, binghamton University's School of Computing offers AI education through multiple pathways including an MS in Computer Science with AI Track, an AI Micro-Credential, and undergraduate AI tracks. The programs cover machine learning, artificial intelligence fundamentals, computer vision, robotics, and data mining with comprehensive theoretical and practical training.
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
- Computer Architecture Lab
- Cloud Computing Lab
- Mobile Computing Lab
- AI/ML Lab
- Computer Vision Lab
- Cybersecurity Lab
- IoT Lab
Industry Partners
- Apple (tech)
- Google (tech)
- Facebook (tech)
- Microsoft (tech)
- Amazon (tech)
- IBM (tech)
- Bloomberg (finance)
- Goldman Sachs (finance)
- CitiGroup (finance)
- JPMorgan Chase (finance)
- NASA (aerospace)
- Lockheed (aerospace)
- GE (industrial)
Career Outcomes
Top Employers: Google, Facebook, Amazon, Apple, Bloomberg, CitiGroup, Goldman Sachs, JPMorgan Chase.
Admissions
GPA Requirement: B average.
Requirements: Undergraduate Algorithms, Probability with Statistical Methods, Undergraduate Operating Systems
Accreditations and Certifications
Clarkson University — Potsdam, NY
Key Distinction: Clarkson's AI program uniquely integrates robotics, embedded systems, and industrial optimization—treating AI as part of larger engineered systems, not as a standalone discipline.
Hakia Insight: Clarkson's refusal to teach AI in isolation—embedding it within robotics, industrial optimization, and embedded systems—produces graduates who intuitively treat algorithms as means, not ends, a mindset that translates directly to systems that actually work at scale.
At the doctoral level, clarkson's strength in AI research centers on its collaborative, cross-disciplinary approach—bridging computer science, engineering, and applied mathematics to tackle real industrial problems. The program is built around a core machine learning and computational intelligence sequence, then branches into specialized tracks in autonomous systems, robotics, optimization, and advanced data analytics. What sets Clarkson apart is its emphasis on hardware-software co-design; students don't just write algorithms in notebooks, they implement them on embedded systems, drones, and robotic platforms in the university's well-equipped labs. Faculty research often involves manufacturing optimization, supply-chain prediction, and smart systems—areas where Clarkson's location in upstate New York connects it to regional heavy industry and mid-market tech firms. The capstone projects frequently emerge from real company challenges, giving students portfolio pieces that directly demonstrate problem-solving at scale. Clarkson also cultivates a maker culture, so AI students often collaborate with mechanical and electrical engineers, producing integrated systems rather than isolated models. Graduates gravitate toward roles in automation, robotics companies, and engineering firms where AI is one tool among many, rather than the entire product.
Programs Offered
- Doctor of Philosophy in Artificial Intelligence — 4-6 years, on-campus
- Doctor of Science in Artificial Intelligence — 4-6 years, online
Accreditations and Certifications
- ABET accredited engineering programs
Location Advantages: Proximity to upstate New York manufacturing and industrial sectorsConnections to regional engineering firms
Pace University — New York, NY
Key Distinction: Pace's AI program is distinctly oriented toward regulated industries—fintech, insurance, healthcare—where ethical AI and explainability are as important as accuracy.
Hakia Insight: Pace's dual doctoral track (PhD and D.Sc.) in Manhattan gives students rare access to regulated-industry case studies in real time—fintech compliance failures, insurance model audits, healthcare AI deployments—making explainability and bias detection tangible rather than theoretical concerns.
At the doctoral level, pace's artificial intelligence program emphasizes practical application within New York's dynamic financial and tech ecosystem. Rather than pure theory, the curriculum integrates machine learning, neural networks, and data science with real-world case studies drawn from fintech, healthcare, and enterprise software—domains where Pace's Manhattan and Westchester locations give students direct access to working professionals. The program structures around specialization tracks in predictive analytics, computer vision, and natural language processing, allowing students to tailor their focus before entering the job market. Faculty bring industry experience alongside academic credentials, and internship placements are woven into the curriculum, not treated as optional add-ons. Pace emphasizes explainable AI and ethical considerations, recognizing that AI professionals in regulated industries need more than model accuracy—they need to justify decisions to compliance teams and stakeholders. Graduates commonly transition into roles at financial institutions, insurance firms, and healthcare providers across the tri-state region, where Pace's alumni network actively recruits. The smaller cohort sizes mean direct faculty mentorship and peer collaboration that larger programs can't always provide, making it feasible for students with varied backgrounds to catch up and excel.
Programs Offered
- Doctor of Philosophy in Artificial Intelligence — 4-6 years, on-campus
- Doctor of Science in Artificial Intelligence — 4-6 years, online
Location Advantages: Manhattan and Westchester proximity to fintech hubsAccess to Fortune 500 companies in the tri-state regionConnections to NYC financial services industry
