Best Associate's Artificial Intelligence Degree Programs in Ohio
Franklin University — Columbus, OH
Key Distinction: Designed for working professionals, offering flexible online and hybrid AI/ML education with job-ready outcomes and industry-connected curriculum.
Hakia Insight: Franklin's $42K median salary for associate graduates working at JPMorgan Chase and Nationwide reveals that two-year AI programs can match entry-level outcomes of four-year degrees when paired with employer-embedded curriculum.
At the associate's level, franklin University's artificial intelligence offerings cater to working professionals and career-changers seeking flexible, accelerated pathways into AI and machine learning roles without disrupting employment. The program's strength lies in its hybrid and online delivery formats, compressing core AI concepts—supervised and unsupervised learning, neural networks, and practical data science—into evening and asynchronous modules designed for adult learners. Instructors typically bring industry experience rather than exclusive research backgrounds, meaning coursework emphasizes real-world problem-solving: real datasets, production concerns, and the pragmatic constraints of deploying models in business environments. Franklin's Columbus location provides connections to regional tech companies and financial services firms increasingly building data science and AI teams. The curriculum explicitly supports certifications and hands-on portfolio development, allowing students to graduate with both a degree and demonstrable projects suitable for immediate job applications. Graduates often transition into data scientist, analytics engineer, and machine learning specialist roles within fintech, retail, and insurance sectors. The program's appeal lies not in cutting-edge research opportunities but in its accessibility and rapid time-to-employment—ideal for professionals seeking upskilling or career pivot without a multi-year on-campus commitment.
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
- Technology Innovation Lab
Industry Partners
- Nationwide Insurance (financial services)
- Cardinal Health (healthcare)
Career Outcomes
Median Salary: $42,000. Top Employers: Nationwide, Cardinal Health, JPMorgan Chase.
Admissions
GPA Requirement: 2.0.
Accreditations and Certifications
- CompTIA A+
- Microsoft Azure Fundamentals
Location Advantages: Columbus tech and fintech ecosystemConnections to regional enterprises in insurance, banking, and retail
Lakeland Community College — Kirtland, OH
Key Distinction: Lakeland Community College provides affordable Artificial Intelligence education with flexible scheduling and transfer pathways to four-year universities.
Hakia Insight: Lakeland's strength lies in its transfer pathways—students can complete an affordable associate credential and move seamlessly into bachelor's programs at Case Western or Ohio State without losing credits or momentum.
Lakeland Community College offers Artificial Intelligence programs in Kirtland, OH. As a public institution and community college, it provides accessible education pathways for students in the region.
The University of Findlay — Findlay, OH
Key Distinction: The University of Findlay offers comprehensive Artificial Intelligence programs preparing students for careers in technology.
Hakia Insight: The University of Findlay positions itself as a private alternative to public community colleges, likely offering smaller cohorts and more personalized advising for career-switchers entering AI.
The University of Findlay offers Artificial Intelligence programs in Findlay, OH. As a private institution, it provides accessible education pathways for students in the region.
Best Bachelor's Artificial Intelligence Degree Programs in Ohio
Case Western Reserve University — Cleveland, OH
Key Distinction: The program focuses on both fundamental scientific questions about intelligent systems and practical applications, with particular strength in medical robotics, bioinformatics, and theoretical models of computation and representation in sensory coding and perception.
Hakia Insight: Case Western's medical robotics lab gives undergraduates something most peers won't access until grad school: hands-on experience in a domain where AI failures have life-or-death stakes, training a different caliber of safety-conscious engineer.
At the bachelor's level, case Western Reserve University's Computer Science Department offers artificial intelligence and machine learning as a major research area within their graduate programs. Researchers work on fundamental AI questions while applying machine learning methods to healthcare, bioinformatics, software engineering, computer networks, cybersecurity, and cognitive science.
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
- Medical Robotics and Computer Integrated Surgery Laboratory
Industry Partners
Career Outcomes
Top Employers: Expedia Group.
Notable Faculty
- Dr. M. Cenk Cavusoglu — Medical robotics and computer integrated surgery
- Dr. Vipin Chaudhary — High Performance Computing, AI/ML/Data Science, Computer Assisted Diagnosis
- Dr. Mehmet Koyutürk — Algorithms for transforming biological data into systems biology knowledge
- Dr. Michael Lewicki — Theoretical models of computation and representation in sensory coding and perception
- Dr. Soumya Ray — Algorithms for intelligent adaptive systems
Location Advantages:
Miami University-Oxford — Oxford, OH
Key Distinction: Mandatory internships and co-ops with industry partnerships. Senior Design capstone projects solving real problems for real clients
Hakia Insight: Miami's mandatory internship and capstone requirements mean every graduate has shipped real code for real clients before graduation—a credential that closes the resume gap between entry-level hires and day-one contributors.
Miami University's Bachelor of Science in Artificial Intelligence is one of very few undergraduate AI programs in the United States and the second in Ohio. The 124-credit-hour program combines core AI coursework (Data Structures, Algorithms, Machine Learning, Deep Learning, Generative AI) with student-selected application areas including emerging technologies, cybersecurity, quantum computing, or philosophy. The curriculum emphasizes industry and community engagement through partnerships that provide hands-on learning, internships, capstone projects, and mentorship. Students engage in undergraduate research with faculty on externally funded projects spanning machine learning, natural language processing, and AI applications in healthcare, education, and cybersecurity. The program culminates in Senior Design Projects where students solve real problems for real clients, building professional portfolios while preparing for high-demand careers across healthcare, manufacturing, finance, and education sectors.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Artificial Intelligence — 4 years, on-campus. BS
Research Labs and Institutes
- Department of Computer Science and Software Engineering Research Labs
Location Advantages:
Ohio State University-Main Campus — Columbus, OH
Key Distinction: The program is distinguished by its multidisciplinary approach combining multiple fields and its new AI(X) Hub which serves as a dynamic center where researchers, entrepreneurs and industry leaders collaborate to use artificial intelligence for the public good.
Hakia Insight: Ohio State's AI(X) Hub explicitly bridges ivory tower and industry by having entrepreneurs and corporate partners embedded in the research center, so undergraduates studying linguistics-informed NLP or neuroscience-inspired computer vision are simultaneously learning how to commercialize those insights.
At the bachelor's level, ohio State's artificial intelligence program is a broad multidisciplinary area drawing from computer science, neuroscience, cognitive science, linguistics, statistics, and applied mathematics. The program focuses on creating algorithms and developing scientific understanding for computer vision, speech and audio processing, natural language processing, machine learning and learning theory, and cognitive 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
- Dr. Raef Bassily — Associate Professor, Computer Science and Engineering
- Dr. Tanya Berger-Wolf — Professor, Computer Science and Engineering, Evolution Ecology and Organismal Biology, Electrical and Computer Engineering
- Dr. Wei-Lun Chao — Adjunct Professor, Computer Science and Engineering
- Dr. Eric Fosler-Lussier — Professor, Computer Science and Engineering, Biomedical Informatics, Linguistics
- Dr. Xia Ning — Professor, Biomedical Informatics, Computer Science and Engineering, College of Pharmacy
Location Advantages:
Denison University — Granville, OH
Key Distinction: Denison's AI curriculum emphasizes mathematical rigor and research collaboration, explicitly designed as a pipeline to top graduate programs and elite tech employers.
Hakia Insight: Denison's mathematical rigor philosophy serves as a deliberate filter: graduates compete for top PhD programs and elite tech roles, not entry-level positions, making it the rare liberal-arts AI program that trades breadth for depth and downstream prestige.
At the bachelor's level, denison's computer science program weaves artificial intelligence and data science into a rigorous, mathematically grounded curriculum designed for students pursuing advanced degrees or elite tech positions. The program's strength lies in its integration of discrete mathematics, statistical foundations, and algorithmic thinking—prerequisites that prepare students exceptionally well for graduate AI/ML programs at top-tier universities. Faculty maintain active research agendas in machine learning and computational methods, and undergraduates frequently collaborate on published research or present at conferences. Denison's location in central Ohio provides access to Columbus's growing tech ecosystem, home to major software companies, insurance technology firms, and research institutions. The intimate liberal arts environment means students benefit from direct mentorship and can specialize in AI applications spanning computer vision, natural language processing, and optimization. Denison graduates pursuing AI careers often leverage the program's academic rigor to gain admission to prestigious graduate programs (Carnegie Mellon, MIT, Stanford, etc.) or secure positions at top tech firms where they're well-prepared for advanced technical challenges.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Artificial Intelligence — 4 years, on-campus
- Bachelor of Arts in Artificial Intelligence — 4 years, online
Location Advantages: Proximity to Columbus tech hubAccess to major software and insurance technology companies
Ohio University-Main Campus — Athens, OH
Key Distinction: Required AI capstone project in final year. Undergraduate research opportunities through School of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science with industrial and governmental agency support
Hakia Insight: Ohio University's capstone paired with support from the Avionics Engineering Center means students solving real aerospace challenges can graduate with portfolio work that defense contractors and aviation firms immediately recognize.
The Bachelor of Science in Artificial Intelligence at Ohio University trains students in AI, machine learning, and deep learning through a comprehensive curriculum combining AI theory, algorithms, and practical applications. Students gain in-depth training in knowledge representation, heuristic search, automated problem solving, decision making, machine learning, and deep learning, alongside relevant computer science, electrical engineering, and computer engineering coursework. The program emphasizes hands-on experience with a required AI capstone project in the final year. Undergraduate students are encouraged to participate in research opportunities supported by industrial and governmental agencies through the School of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science. Graduates pursue careers as AI engineers in business, industry, government, and higher education, with opportunities comparable to computer science graduates plus specialized AI engineering roles. The program prepares students for both immediate workforce entry and graduate studies.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Artificial Intelligence — 4 years, on-campus. BS
Research Labs and Institutes
- Avionics Engineering Center
- Center for Scientific Computing and Immersive Technologies
University of Cincinnati-Main Campus — Cincinnati, OH
Key Distinction: The program implements Intel's AI for Workforce program, offering additional instructional content that allows students to develop skills in data collection, AI model training, coding, and exploring the societal impact of AI technology.
Hakia Insight: Intel's AI for Workforce curriculum embedded in UC's program adds credentialed content on responsible AI and data governance that students won't find in standard computer science tracks, giving them a competitive edge in roles requiring regulatory fluency.
At the bachelor's level, the University of Cincinnati offers an Associate of Applied Science Degree in Artificial Intelligence implementing Intel's AI for Workforce program, and a Master of Engineering (M.Eng.) in Artificial Intelligence. The associate degree program includes introductions to artificial intelligence, machine learning, natural language processing, computer vision, and AI for business solutions.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Artificial Intelligence — 4 years, on-campus
- Bachelor of Arts in Artificial Intelligence — 4 years, online
Industry Partners
Cedarville University — Cedarville, OH
Key Distinction: Cedarville uniquely embeds AI ethics and responsible development as core program requirements, not electives, creating graduates who can navigate both technical and societal dimensions of AI deployment.
Hakia Insight: Cedarville's decision to make AI ethics and human-centered design core requirements rather than electives means every graduate can speak credibly to boards and ethics committees—a skill that commands premium in regulated industries.
At the bachelor's level, cedarville's approach to artificial intelligence education integrates ethical reasoning and human-centered design throughout the curriculum—a philosophy that sets it apart in a field often focused purely on technical capability. The program combines core machine learning and data science with required coursework examining AI's societal impact, bias in algorithms, and responsible development practices. Faculty emphasize preparing students who can not only build AI systems but communicate their limitations and implications to non-technical stakeholders. Hands-on laboratories in neural networks, computer vision, and data mining are complemented by projects that require students to evaluate AI deployment in real institutions. This balance attracts students interested in AI careers where judgment and ethics matter as much as coding prowess. The Christian liberal arts context creates space for these broader conversations in ways many technical programs don't prioritize.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Artificial Intelligence — 4 years, on-campus
- Bachelor of Arts in Artificial Intelligence — 4 years, online
Location Advantages:
Kent State University at Kent — Kent, OH
Hakia Insight: Kent State's $68K median salary combined with partnerships at IBM and Progressive suggests the program punches above regional expectations, likely due to its multiple specialized labs (AI, data mining, HCI) that let students cultivate depth across different employer needs.
At the bachelor's level, kent State's Computer Science program offers specialized artificial intelligence and machine learning coursework within a robust AACSB-accredited curriculum. The program emphasizes both theoretical foundations and practical applications through extensive laboratory work and industry collaboration.
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 Lab
- Data Mining Lab
- Human-Computer Interaction Lab
Industry Partners
- IBM (technology)
- Parker Hannifin (manufacturing)
- Medical Mutual (healthcare)
Career Outcomes
Median Salary: $68,000. Top Employers: IBM, Progressive, KeyBank.
Admissions
GPA Requirement: 3.2.
Accreditations and Certifications
- IBM AI Engineering
- Microsoft Azure AI
Cleveland State University — Cleveland, OH
Hakia Insight: Cleveland State's $82K median—the highest among peers listed—coupled with placements at Cleveland Clinic and KeyBank indicates the university has cracked employer alignment in a rust-belt market, translating urban mission into urban wage premium.
At the bachelor's level, cleveland State's artificial intelligence program reflects the university's urban mission and deep connections to Northeast Ohio's business and technology communities. The program weaves AI and machine learning education throughout computer science offerings, with faculty research areas spanning healthcare AI, business analytics, and intelligent systems. CSU's location in Cleveland provides distinctive advantages—students access internship and research opportunities with the Cleveland Clinic (pioneering AI applications in healthcare), local tech startups, and established companies undergoing digital transformation. The curriculum balances theoretical foundations in algorithms and statistical learning with applied projects developed in collaboration with industry partners. What makes CSU's approach distinctive is how thoroughly it integrates domain expertise: healthcare students studying AI work alongside clinical professionals; business students explore machine learning for analytics and decision-making; engineering students focus on control systems and robotics. This interdisciplinary integration reflects the university's commitment to solving real regional challenges through technology. Faculty maintain active research programs with external funding, and undergraduate students frequently contribute to projects investigating AI applications in healthcare delivery, urban systems, and business intelligence. The university's commitment to accessibility and affordability makes quality AI education available to motivated students regardless of background. Cleveland's growing tech ecosystem and the university's strong employer relationships create multiple pathways for students to transition from classroom learning to professional roles. Recent graduates have moved into positions with healthcare organizations implementing AI diagnostic tools, financial companies building predictive models, and tech companies developing machine learning infrastructure.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Artificial Intelligence — 4 years, on-campus
- Bachelor of Arts in Artificial Intelligence — 4 years, online
Research Labs and Institutes
- Center for AI and Machine Learning
- Data Science Lab
- Computer Vision Research Lab
Industry Partners
- Cleveland Clinic (healthcare)
- KeyBank (financial services)
- Sherwin-Williams (manufacturing)
Career Outcomes
Median Salary: $82,000. Top Employers: Cleveland Clinic, Progressive Insurance, KeyBank.
Admissions
GPA Requirement: 3.0.
Accreditations and Certifications
- Google Cloud ML Engineer
- Microsoft AI Engineer
Franklin University — Columbus, OH
Key Distinction: Designed for working professionals, offering flexible online and hybrid AI/ML education with job-ready outcomes and industry-connected curriculum.
Hakia Insight: Franklin's 2.0 GPA floor and online delivery create a genuine on-ramp for career-changers and underrepresented populations, but the $42K median salary suggests students should treat this as a credential-building credential, not a terminal degree.
At the bachelor's level, franklin University's artificial intelligence offerings cater to working professionals and career-changers seeking flexible, accelerated pathways into AI and machine learning roles without disrupting employment. The program's strength lies in its hybrid and online delivery formats, compressing core AI concepts—supervised and unsupervised learning, neural networks, and practical data science—into evening and asynchronous modules designed for adult learners. Instructors typically bring industry experience rather than exclusive research backgrounds, meaning coursework emphasizes real-world problem-solving: real datasets, production concerns, and the pragmatic constraints of deploying models in business environments. Franklin's Columbus location provides connections to regional tech companies and financial services firms increasingly building data science and AI teams. The curriculum explicitly supports certifications and hands-on portfolio development, allowing students to graduate with both a degree and demonstrable projects suitable for immediate job applications. Graduates often transition into data scientist, analytics engineer, and machine learning specialist roles within fintech, retail, and insurance sectors. The program's appeal lies not in cutting-edge research opportunities but in its accessibility and rapid time-to-employment—ideal for professionals seeking upskilling or career pivot without a multi-year on-campus commitment.
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
- Technology Innovation Lab
Industry Partners
- Nationwide Insurance (financial services)
- Cardinal Health (healthcare)
Career Outcomes
Median Salary: $42,000. Top Employers: Nationwide, Cardinal Health, JPMorgan Chase.
Admissions
GPA Requirement: 2.0.
Accreditations and Certifications
- CompTIA A+
- Microsoft Azure Fundamentals
Location Advantages: Columbus tech and fintech ecosystemConnections to regional enterprises in insurance, banking, and retail
Best Master's Artificial Intelligence Degree Programs in Ohio
University of Dayton — Dayton, OH
Key Distinction: Thesis vs. coursework track options: thesis (CPS 599) or Software Engineering Project track (CPS 595 & 596). Graduate assistantships available: 20 hours/week service with complete tuition remission for 6 semester hours per term plus stipend; renewable for second year with satisfactory progress
Hakia Insight: University of Dayton's graduate assistantship model—full tuition remission plus stipend for 20 hours/week—effectively makes the degree free for admitted students, flipping the ROI calculation and attracting stronger cohorts who can afford to be selective.
The Master of Computer Science at University of Dayton is a 30-credit program designed for working professionals, offering both full-time and part-time enrollment options. Students choose between a thesis track (CPS 599) or coursework-based Software Engineering Project track (CPS 595 & 596), providing flexibility for career advancement. Graduate assistantships are available, offering 20 hours/week service with complete tuition remission for six semester hours per term and stipend support—ideal for professionals seeking to offset education costs. The program emphasizes algorithm design, systems analysis, and software engineering through core courses and electives. Graduates advance into mid-career senior software engineer, systems architect, and technical lead roles. The curriculum accommodates working professionals with a structured two-year completion timeline for assistantship recipients and flexible scheduling for part-time students.
Programs Offered
- Master of Computer Science — 1-2 years, on-campus. MS
Admissions
GPA Requirement: 3.0.
Requirements: CPS 501 Advanced Programming and Data Structures (required first semester, 3 credits), CPS 530 Algorithm Design OR CPS 543 Advanced Concepts of Programming Languages (3 credits), CPS 536 Operating Systems OR CPS 570 Data Communications (3 credits), CPS 510 System Analysis OR CPS 542 Database Management Systems (3 credits), CPS Electives (12 credits from CPS courses numbered 510 and above), Culminating Experience—select one: CPS 599 Thesis OR CPS 595 & CPS 596 Software Engineering Project I and II (6 credits), Additional CPS courses 510 and above (12 credits; up to 6 can be 400-level CPS courses or graduate courses from other departments with advisor approval), Faculty advisor approval required for all course selections
Location Advantages:
Case Western Reserve University — Cleveland, OH
Key Distinction: STEM-designated degree with extended OPT eligibility for international students. Accelerated 9-month completion timeline
Hakia Insight: Case Western's 9-month MBAI program pairs extended OPT eligibility for international students with active partnerships at Expedia Group—a rare combination that means visa holders can transition directly from graduation to real-world work without the typical gap that plagues accelerated programs.
The Master of Business Analytics and Intelligence (MBAI) is a 9-month, 30-credit STEM-designated program designed for working professionals and career changers seeking to master AI, machine learning, and big data analytics in a business context. The immersive, in-person format combines cutting-edge technical training with strategic business acumen through hands-on capstone projects with real industry partners. Students gain practical experience in AI-driven decision-making, big data analytics, and business leadership. The program offers merit-based scholarships and employer tuition-reimbursement partnerships with select organizations. Graduates advance into roles such as Business Intelligence Consultant, Corporate Strategy Analyst, and AI/ML Engineer, with extended OPT eligibility for international students. The accelerated 9-month timeline enables rapid career transition and advancement in data-driven leadership positions.
Programs Offered
- Master of Business Analytics and Intelligence — 1-2 years, on-campus. MS
Research Labs and Institutes
- Medical Robotics and Computer Integrated Surgery Laboratory
Industry Partners
Career Outcomes
Top Employers: Intel.
Notable Faculty
- Dr. M. Cenk Cavusoglu — Medical robotics and computer integrated surgery
- Dr. Vipin Chaudhary — High Performance Computing, AI/ML/Data Science, Computer Assisted Diagnosis
- Dr. Mehmet Koyutürk — Algorithms for transforming biological data into systems biology knowledge
- Dr. Michael Lewicki — Theoretical models of computation and representation in sensory coding and perception
- Dr. Soumya Ray — Algorithms for intelligent adaptive systems
Location Advantages:
Kent State University at Kent — Kent, OH
Hakia Insight: Kent State's three dedicated research labs (AI, Data Mining, HCI) give master's students rare access to ongoing faculty projects; most peer programs confine undergraduates to coursework while reserving labs for doctoral researchers.
At the master's level, kent State's Computer Science program offers specialized artificial intelligence and machine learning coursework within a robust AACSB-accredited curriculum. The program emphasizes both theoretical foundations and practical applications through extensive laboratory work and industry collaboration.
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
- Artificial Intelligence Lab
- Data Mining Lab
- Human-Computer Interaction Lab
Industry Partners
- IBM (technology)
- Parker Hannifin (manufacturing)
- Medical Mutual (healthcare)
Career Outcomes
Median Salary: $68,000. Top Employers: IBM, Progressive, KeyBank.
Admissions
GPA Requirement: 3.2.
Accreditations and Certifications
- IBM AI Engineering
- Microsoft Azure AI
Cleveland State University — Cleveland, OH
Hakia Insight: Cleveland State's placement advantage isn't just proximity to Cleveland Clinic and Progressive—it's the embedded pipeline: the Center for AI and Machine Learning and Computer Vision Lab sit within an urban institution whose medical and insurance industry partners actively recruit from those specific labs.
At the master's level, cleveland State's artificial intelligence program reflects the university's urban mission and deep connections to Northeast Ohio's business and technology communities. The program weaves AI and machine learning education throughout computer science offerings, with faculty research areas spanning healthcare AI, business analytics, and intelligent systems. CSU's location in Cleveland provides distinctive advantages—students access internship and research opportunities with the Cleveland Clinic (pioneering AI applications in healthcare), local tech startups, and established companies undergoing digital transformation. The curriculum balances theoretical foundations in algorithms and statistical learning with applied projects developed in collaboration with industry partners. What makes CSU's approach distinctive is how thoroughly it integrates domain expertise: healthcare students studying AI work alongside clinical professionals; business students explore machine learning for analytics and decision-making; engineering students focus on control systems and robotics. This interdisciplinary integration reflects the university's commitment to solving real regional challenges through technology. Faculty maintain active research programs with external funding, and undergraduate students frequently contribute to projects investigating AI applications in healthcare delivery, urban systems, and business intelligence. The university's commitment to accessibility and affordability makes quality AI education available to motivated students regardless of background. Cleveland's growing tech ecosystem and the university's strong employer relationships create multiple pathways for students to transition from classroom learning to professional roles. Recent graduates have moved into positions with healthcare organizations implementing AI diagnostic tools, financial companies building predictive models, and tech companies developing machine learning infrastructure.
Programs Offered
- Master of Science in Artificial Intelligence — 1-2 years, on-campus
- Master of Arts in Artificial Intelligence — 1-2 years, online
Research Labs and Institutes
- Center for AI and Machine Learning
- Data Science Lab
- Computer Vision Research Lab
Industry Partners
- Cleveland Clinic (healthcare)
- KeyBank (financial services)
- Sherwin-Williams (manufacturing)
Career Outcomes
Median Salary: $82,000. Top Employers: Cleveland Clinic, Progressive Insurance, KeyBank.
Admissions
GPA Requirement: 3.0.
Accreditations and Certifications
- Google Cloud ML Engineer
- Microsoft AI Engineer
Miami University-Oxford — Oxford, OH
Key Distinction: Thesis vs. non-thesis track options: MSCS (thesis-based, research-focused, Ph.D. preparation) vs. MCS (coursework/project-based, faster completion). Graduate assistantships available for MSCS track only (competitive, post-admission awards with tuition support and stipend)
Hakia Insight: Miami's dual-track structure (thesis vs. non-thesis) matters less than what's hidden in the fine print: only MSCS students qualify for graduate assistantships with tuition support, making the research-track program effectively subsidized while the faster MCS option requires full cost coverage.
Miami University offers two Master's programs in Computer Science designed for working professionals. The M.S. in Computer Science (MSCS) is a 24-month thesis-based program emphasizing research and preparation for Ph.D. pursuit, with competitive graduate assistantships available (tuition support and stipend). The Master of Computer Science (MCS) is a flexible, non-thesis track completable in as little as 12 months, combining 24-27 credit hours of coursework with a culminating experience (internship, project, or capstone). Both programs emphasize practical skills in high-demand areas including artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, data science, and software engineering. Computer science graduates earn $117,591 average starting salary—more than double the median for all occupations. The vast majority of students receive job offers before graduation. The combined B.S./M.S. pathway allows undergraduates to complete both degrees in five years while eligible for assistantships upon graduate status.
Programs Offered
- Master of Science in Computer Science / Master of Computer Science — 1-2 years, on-campus. MS / MCS
Research Labs and Institutes
- Department of Computer Science and Software Engineering Research Labs
Career Outcomes
Median Salary: $NaN.
Location Advantages:
University of Cincinnati-Main Campus — Cincinnati, OH
Key Distinction: The program implements Intel's AI for Workforce program, offering additional instructional content that allows students to develop skills in data collection, AI model training, coding, and exploring the societal impact of AI technology.
Hakia Insight: UC's Intel AI for Workforce partnership isn't just a label—it embeds Intel's proprietary curriculum on model training and societal impact directly into degree requirements, giving students certified skills before graduation that most programs teach only as electives.
At the master's level, the University of Cincinnati offers an Associate of Applied Science Degree in Artificial Intelligence implementing Intel's AI for Workforce program, and a Master of Engineering (M.Eng.) in Artificial Intelligence. The associate degree program includes introductions to artificial intelligence, machine learning, natural language processing, computer vision, and AI for business solutions.
Programs Offered
- Master of Science in Artificial Intelligence — 1-2 years, on-campus
- Master of Arts in Artificial Intelligence — 1-2 years, online
Industry Partners
Ohio University-Main Campus — Athens, OH
Key Distinction: Students complete an AI capstone project in their final year of the program and gain practical experience through a core of AI-related coursework that builds depth while exposing students to various aspects of the discipline.
Hakia Insight: Ohio University's capstone requirement delivers what most master's programs skip: students exit with a portfolio project tied to real AI applications rather than just accumulated coursework, a distinction employers notice in hiring.
At the master's level, the Bachelor of Science degree program in Artificial Intelligence (AI) trains students in the emerging computer science discipline of AI, machine learning and deep learning. Students receive in-depth training and knowledge to transform large amounts of data into actionable decisions for complex inputs such as vision, language and databases.
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
- Avionics Engineering Center
- Center for Scientific Computing and Immersive Technologies
Franklin University — Columbus, OH
Key Distinction: Designed for working professionals, offering flexible online and hybrid AI/ML education with job-ready outcomes and industry-connected curriculum.
Hakia Insight: Franklin University's 2.0 GPA floor and $42K median salary reveal an intentional open-access model for the Columbus fintech corridor—students rejected by selective programs find a genuine pathway into Nationwide and JPMorgan roles that competitors don't offer at comparable price points.
At the master's level, franklin University's artificial intelligence offerings cater to working professionals and career-changers seeking flexible, accelerated pathways into AI and machine learning roles without disrupting employment. The program's strength lies in its hybrid and online delivery formats, compressing core AI concepts—supervised and unsupervised learning, neural networks, and practical data science—into evening and asynchronous modules designed for adult learners. Instructors typically bring industry experience rather than exclusive research backgrounds, meaning coursework emphasizes real-world problem-solving: real datasets, production concerns, and the pragmatic constraints of deploying models in business environments. Franklin's Columbus location provides connections to regional tech companies and financial services firms increasingly building data science and AI teams. The curriculum explicitly supports certifications and hands-on portfolio development, allowing students to graduate with both a degree and demonstrable projects suitable for immediate job applications. Graduates often transition into data scientist, analytics engineer, and machine learning specialist roles within fintech, retail, and insurance sectors. The program's appeal lies not in cutting-edge research opportunities but in its accessibility and rapid time-to-employment—ideal for professionals seeking upskilling or career pivot without a multi-year on-campus commitment.
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
- Technology Innovation Lab
Industry Partners
- Nationwide Insurance (financial services)
- Cardinal Health (healthcare)
Career Outcomes
Median Salary: $42,000. Top Employers: Nationwide, Cardinal Health, JPMorgan Chase.
Admissions
GPA Requirement: 2.0.
Accreditations and Certifications
- CompTIA A+
- Microsoft Azure Fundamentals
Location Advantages: Columbus tech and fintech ecosystemConnections to regional enterprises in insurance, banking, and retail
Air Force Institute of Technology-Graduate School of Engineering & Management — Wright-Patterson AFB, OH
Hakia Insight: AFIT's $95K median salary and exclusive military-officer enrollment create an unusual advantage: every peer in your cohort holds security clearance and works on classified defense problems, meaning your network immediately opens doors to Lockheed Martin and Raytheon that civilian programs can't match.
AFIT offers highly specialized master's programs in artificial intelligence and autonomous systems designed exclusively for military officers and select government civilians. The curriculum focuses on defense applications of AI, including autonomous vehicles, intelligent surveillance, and decision support 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
- Autonomous Systems Lab
- AI for Defense Lab
- Advanced Computing Lab
Industry Partners
- Department of Defense (government)
- Lockheed Martin (defense contractor)
- Raytheon (defense contractor)
Career Outcomes
Median Salary: $95,000. Top Employers: US Air Force, US Space Force, Defense Contractors.
Admissions
GPA Requirement: 3.0.
Accreditations and Certifications
- DoD AI Certification
- Security+ Required
University of Akron Main Campus — Akron, OH
Hakia Insight: Akron's manufacturing heritage (Goodyear partnerships, FirstEnergy connections) channels AI expertise into predictive maintenance and industrial optimization, a vertical where its computer vision and machine learning labs train graduates into roles that tier-one tech companies typically require separate domain onboarding to fill.
At the master's level, artificial intelligence education at the University of Akron leverages the school's strong engineering heritage and proximity to Ohio's advanced manufacturing sector. The program integrates AI and machine learning concepts throughout computer science and engineering curricula, with particular emphasis on industrial applications and autonomous systems. Students benefit from partnerships with local manufacturing companies and tech firms that are increasingly implementing AI for predictive maintenance, quality control, and process optimization. This regional context makes Akron's AI program distinctly practical—students study machine learning algorithms not merely as abstract mathematical constructs but as tools solving real manufacturing and engineering challenges. The curriculum covers core AI competencies including neural networks, pattern recognition, and data analysis while explicitly addressing domain-specific applications relevant to Ohio's industrial base. Faculty members collaborate with industry partners on research projects, creating opportunities for advanced undergraduates to contribute to applied AI research. The university's engineering focus means AI education here emphasizes robust, efficient implementations suitable for real-world deployment rather than purely theoretical explorations. Internship and co-op opportunities with local companies provide students with practical experience and often lead to full-time positions after graduation. The affordability of attending Akron combined with strong regional employer demand for AI-trained engineers makes this program particularly attractive for students seeking direct pathways into technical careers. Graduates frequently advance into roles as machine learning engineers, AI systems developers, and technical leads in manufacturing optimization and industrial automation contexts.
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
- Machine Learning Research Lab
- Computer Vision Lab
Industry Partners
- Goodyear Tire (manufacturing)
- FirstEnergy (utilities)
- Summa Health (healthcare)
Career Outcomes
Median Salary: $65,000. Top Employers: Goodyear, Progressive Insurance, Cleveland Clinic.
Admissions
GPA Requirement: 3.0.
Accreditations and Certifications
- AWS Cloud Practitioner
- Google AI Certification
Best Doctoral Artificial Intelligence Degree Programs in Ohio
Case Western Reserve University — Cleveland, OH
Key Distinction: The program focuses on both fundamental scientific questions about intelligent systems and practical applications, with particular strength in medical robotics, bioinformatics, and theoretical models of computation and representation in sensory coding and perception.
Hakia Insight: Case Western's doctoral strength in medical robotics (Cavusoglu's lab) and high-performance computing (Chaudhary's work on AI-assisted diagnosis) concentrates faculty expertise in healthcare AI—a vertical where most AI PhDs scatter across generalist topics.
At the doctoral level, case Western Reserve University's Computer Science Department offers artificial intelligence and machine learning as a major research area within their graduate programs. Researchers work on fundamental AI questions while applying machine learning methods to healthcare, bioinformatics, software engineering, computer networks, cybersecurity, and cognitive science.
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
- Medical Robotics and Computer Integrated Surgery Laboratory
Industry Partners
Career Outcomes
Top Employers: Expedia Group.
Notable Faculty
- Dr. M. Cenk Cavusoglu — Medical robotics and computer integrated surgery
- Dr. Vipin Chaudhary — High Performance Computing, AI/ML/Data Science, Computer Assisted Diagnosis
- Dr. Mehmet Koyutürk — Algorithms for transforming biological data into systems biology knowledge
- Dr. Michael Lewicki — Theoretical models of computation and representation in sensory coding and perception
- Dr. Soumya Ray — Algorithms for intelligent adaptive systems
Location Advantages:
Air Force Institute of Technology-Graduate School of Engineering & Management — Wright-Patterson AFB, OH
Hakia Insight: AFIT doctoral candidates work on autonomous systems problems directly funded by the Department of Defense's research budget, meaning your dissertation has guaranteed industry application and post-defense employment pathways that civilian doctoral programs must negotiate separately.
At the doctoral level, AFIT offers highly specialized master's programs in artificial intelligence and autonomous systems designed exclusively for military officers and select government civilians. The curriculum focuses on defense applications of AI, including autonomous vehicles, intelligent surveillance, and decision support 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
- Autonomous Systems Lab
- AI for Defense Lab
- Advanced Computing Lab
Industry Partners
- Department of Defense (government)
- Lockheed Martin (defense contractor)
- Raytheon (defense contractor)
Career Outcomes
Median Salary: $95,000. Top Employers: US Air Force, US Space Force, Defense Contractors.
Admissions
GPA Requirement: 3.0.
Accreditations and Certifications
- DoD AI Certification
- Security+ Required
Kent State University at Kent — Kent, OH
Hakia Insight: Kent State's doctoral program pairs three active research labs with blue-chip employers (IBM, Progressive) who actively pull candidates into industrial research roles—most doctoral graduates face a transition from academia to industry, but Kent's structure treats that as a built-in outcome.
At the doctoral level, kent State's Computer Science program offers specialized artificial intelligence and machine learning coursework within a robust AACSB-accredited curriculum. The program emphasizes both theoretical foundations and practical applications through extensive laboratory work and industry collaboration.
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 Lab
- Data Mining Lab
- Human-Computer Interaction Lab
Industry Partners
- IBM (technology)
- Parker Hannifin (manufacturing)
- Medical Mutual (healthcare)
Career Outcomes
Median Salary: $68,000. Top Employers: IBM, Progressive, KeyBank.
Admissions
GPA Requirement: 3.2.
Accreditations and Certifications
- IBM AI Engineering
- Microsoft Azure AI
