Best Associate's Artificial Intelligence Degree Programs in Washington
Tacoma Community College — Tacoma, WA
Key Distinction: Tacoma Community College provides affordable Artificial Intelligence education with flexible scheduling and transfer pathways to four-year universities.
Hakia Insight: Tacoma Community College's position in the Pacific Northwest positions graduates for immediate placement in the region's aerospace and advanced manufacturing sectors, where AI skills command premium wages relative to coastal tech hubs.
Tacoma Community College offers Artificial Intelligence programs in Tacoma, WA. As a public institution and community college, it provides accessible education pathways for students in the region.
Green River College — Auburn, WA
Key Distinction: Cost-effective education with small class sizes, lower tuition rates compared to universities, and strong transfer agreements to top universities in Washington and the US
Hakia Insight: Green River's transfer agreements to four-year universities function as a low-risk pipeline: students complete foundational AI coursework at 40% the cost of a traditional bachelor's, then transfer with credential recognition intact.
At the associate's level, green River College offers computer science programs including associate degrees and an AI certificate. Students learn programming languages, computer systems, and data structures while preparing for university transfer or entry-level careers.
Programs Offered
- Associate of Science in Artificial Intelligence — 2 years, on-campus
- Associate of Applied Science in Artificial Intelligence — 2 years, online
Accreditations and Certifications
Renton Technical College — Renton, WA
Hakia Insight: Renton Tech's embedding students in working lab environments from day one means graduates arrive at Amazon, Microsoft, and Google having already debugged real systems—eliminating the typical 3-6 month onboarding gap.
At the associate's level, if you want hands-on experience from day one, Renton Tech's AI program embeds you in a working lab environment where you're troubleshooting real systems and building applied solutions immediately. The curriculum prioritizes technical depth over breadth—you'll master specific tools and frameworks deeply rather than survey many tools shallowly. Located near major tech employers in the Seattle metro area, graduates consistently move into support roles, junior analyst positions, or transfer pipelines. The college's strong industry advisory board means the skills taught align precisely with what hiring managers actually need.
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: Amazon, Microsoft, Google, Meta, Zillow.
Top Transfer Destinations
- University of Washington
- Washington State University
- University of Washington Bothell
- Seattle Pacific University
Entry-Level Career Paths
- Junior Data Analyst
- AI Systems Support Technician
- Help Desk Technician (Technical Track)
- Machine Learning Operations Associate
Included Certifications
- CompTIA A+
- AWS Cloud Practitioner
- Microsoft Azure Fundamentals
Shoreline Community College — Shoreline, WA
Hakia Insight: Shoreline's location in the Seattle metro concentrates not just internship access but also allows students to attend guest lectures and networking events from companies like Amazon and Microsoft multiple times per quarter, building relationships during their associate degree rather than after.
At the associate's level, shoreline's AI program sits in the heart of the Seattle metro tech bubble, giving you immediate proximity to internship sites, guest lecturers from major tech companies, and job placement pipelines that actually work. You'll build projects in modern labs and collaborate with peers in a community that treats AI skills as in-demand and valuable. The program balances theoretical computer science with practical machine learning, so you understand *why* algorithms work, not just how to use them. Many students complete their AAS, land solid entry-level roles, then return part-time to pursue bachelor's degrees while earning.
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: Amazon, Microsoft, Google, Meta, Zillow, Tableau.
Top Transfer Destinations
- University of Washington
- Washington State University
- Seattle Pacific University
- University of Washington Bothell
Entry-Level Career Paths
- Junior Data Analyst
- Machine Learning Operations Associate
- AI Support Specialist
- Data Technician
Included Certifications
- CompTIA A+
- AWS Cloud Practitioner
- Google Cloud Associate Cloud Engineer
Edmonds College — Lynnwood, WA
Key Distinction: The program goes beyond traditional robotics education by integrating cutting-edge AI and machine learning technologies, positioning graduates to advance the development and implementation of intelligent automated systems across multiple industries.
Hakia Insight: Edmonds College's BAS-ROBAI stands apart by embedding machine learning into robotics from day one—most associate programs treat AI as an elective, but here it's foundational, letting graduates command both mechanical systems and the algorithms that make them intelligent.
At the associate's level, edmonds College's Bachelor of Applied Science in Robotics and Artificial Intelligence (BAS-ROBAI) focuses on hands-on learning and prepares students to design, implement, and maintain advanced manufacturing systems that leverage robotics, interconnected sensors, and data analytics. The program equips students with knowledge and skills needed in the growing field of robotics in manufacturing.
Programs Offered
- Associate of Science in Artificial Intelligence — 2 years, on-campus
- Associate of Applied Science in Artificial Intelligence — 2 years, online
Notable Faculty
- Sirine Maalej — ROBAI department head
- Allison Obourn — computer science department head
- Carey Schroyer — Dean of STEM
Admissions
GPA Requirement: 2.5.
Requirements: Math 141 or higher, ENGL 101, CS 115 or equivalent
South Seattle College — Seattle, WA
Key Distinction: South Seattle College offers comprehensive Artificial Intelligence programs preparing students for careers in technology.
Hakia Insight: South Seattle College's location in a region where Amazon, Microsoft, and Google all have major operations means internship pipelines are baked into the curriculum, not just aspirational.
South Seattle College offers Artificial Intelligence programs in Seattle, WA. As a public institution, it provides accessible education pathways for students in the region.
Lake Washington Institute of Technology — Kirkland, WA
Hakia Insight: LWTech's employer roster (Amazon, Microsoft, Google Cloud) reflects a rare advantage for a community college: its applied AI curriculum is reverse-engineered from what these companies actually hire for, not what textbooks prescribe.
At the associate's level, you'll get hands-on experience in machine learning and data processing through LWTech's applied focus—this isn't theoretical computer science, but practical AI tools you can use immediately. The program emphasizes real-world projects with local tech companies in the Seattle metro area, giving you portfolio pieces employers actually want to see. Many graduates move into data analysis or AI support roles at companies headquartered nearby, or transfer to UW Tacoma and Washington State University with a solid technical foundation. What sets LWTech apart is the embedded internship opportunities; you're not just learning algorithms in isolation, but seeing how enterprises deploy them.
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: Amazon, Microsoft, Google Cloud, T-Mobile, Alaska Airlines, Local Seattle tech startups.
Top Transfer Destinations
- University of Washington
- Washington State University
- University of Washington Tacoma
- Western Washington University
Entry-Level Career Paths
- Machine Learning Operations Technician
- Data Processing Specialist
- AI Support Technician
- Junior Data Analyst
- Cloud Infrastructure Associate
Included Certifications
- AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner
- Google Cloud Associate Cloud Engineer
- CompTIA A+
- Microsoft Azure Fundamentals (AZ-900)
Location Advantages:
Spokane Falls Community College — Spokane, WA
Hakia Insight: Spokane Falls built its AI program explicitly around documented regional workforce gaps—healthcare systems, logistics, and banking employers are actively recruiting graduates before they finish, creating near-certain employment rather than typical job-search timelines.
At the associate's level, spokane Falls has built its artificial intelligence program around the region's growing tech corridor and workforce shortages—your education directly addresses what employers in Spokane and the Pacific Northwest actually need right now. The curriculum balances foundational AI concepts with hands-on labs where you work with Python, TensorFlow, and cloud platforms. Graduates typically land roles in healthcare IT, logistics, or regional tech companies, or transfer to Gonzaga, Washington State University, or Eastern Washington University with a competitive edge. The program's strength lies in its small cohorts and instructor accessibility; you're not a number in a lecture hall.
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: Washington State University (research roles), Healthcare systems (Spokane region), Regional tech companies, Logistics and supply chain firms, Banking and financial services.
Top Transfer Destinations
- Washington State University
- Eastern Washington University
- Gonzaga University
- University of Washington
Entry-Level Career Paths
- Data Analyst
- Junior Machine Learning Engineer
- AI Support Technician
- Cloud Operations Associate
- Business Intelligence Analyst
Included Certifications
- AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner
- CompTIA A+
- Google Cloud Associate Cloud Engineer
- Microsoft Azure Fundamentals (AZ-900)
Location Advantages:
Skagit Valley College — Mount Vernon, WA
Hakia Insight: Skagit Valley proves rural doesn't mean disconnected—the program's hybrid model of local instruction plus national online partnerships lets students access Seattle-tier content at regional tuition costs, a model most four-year schools haven't replicated.
At the associate's level, rural Washington AI education doesn't mean isolated learning—Skagit Valley's program connects you to online resources and partner institutions while keeping tuition and class sizes manageable. The intimate student-to-instructor ratio means personalized attention as you develop fundamentals in data analysis, Python programming, and machine learning principles. From here, many students transition to UW or WSU with strong foundational preparation and direct transfer agreements that save money and time. The program also serves working professionals who need flexible scheduling, so evening and hybrid options accommodate students earning while learning.
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: Local government agencies, Regional tech companies, Remote positions (national).
Top Transfer Destinations
- University of Washington
- Washington State University
- Western Washington University
- UW Bothell
Entry-Level Career Paths
- Junior Data Analyst
- Data Entry Specialist (Technical)
- Support Analyst
- Systems Support Technician
Included Certifications
- CompTIA A+
- Google Cloud Associate Cloud Engineer
- AWS Cloud Practitioner
Yakima Valley College — Yakima, WA
Key Distinction: Yakima Valley College offers comprehensive Artificial Intelligence programs preparing students for careers in technology.
Hakia Insight: Yakima Valley College's accessibility model serves a region historically underrepresented in tech, positioning graduates to fill specific employer needs across healthcare and regional operations where local AI talent is scarce.
Yakima Valley College offers Artificial Intelligence programs in Yakima, WA. As a public institution, it provides accessible education pathways for students in the region.
Best Bachelor's Artificial Intelligence Degree Programs in Washington
University of Washington-Seattle Campus — Seattle, WA
Key Distinction: Access to Paul G. Allen Center's 20,000+ square feet of laboratories with nearly 1,000 computer systems. Specialized labs for mobile robotics, computer graphics, embedded systems, artificial intelligence, and networking
Hakia Insight: UW Seattle's Paul G. Allen Center houses nearly 1,000 dedicated computer systems across specialized labs—few universities maintain that density of hardware, meaning students iterate on robotics, graphics, and embedded AI projects with virtually no queue time.
The University of Washington Computer Science Bachelor of Science program, offered through the College of Arts and Sciences, educates students in software design, algorithms, and computing systems. The curriculum requires 77-82 credits across mathematics (15-19 credits), fundamental courses (24-25 credits including CSE 123/143, CSE 311, 312, 331, 332, 351), and 33 credits of 300/400-level core and electives, with at least four 400-level courses required. Students gain hands-on experience through access to the Paul G. Allen Center's state-of-the-art facilities including 20,000+ square feet of laboratories, nearly 1,000 computer systems, and specialized labs for robotics, graphics, embedded systems, and artificial intelligence. Internships and co-op opportunities are available. A Data Science option is also available, requiring 80-87 total credits with additional courses in machine learning and data analysis (CSE 421, 442, 444, 446). Career outcomes span systems analysis, software engineering, technical sales, and entrepreneurship; graduate education pathways include research and academic positions.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Computer Science — 4 years, on-campus. BS
Research Labs and Institutes
- Database Group
- Sensor Systems Laboratory
- SMARTS Lab
Industry Partners
- The Boeing Company (aerospace)
Notable Faculty
- Steve Brunton — dimensionality reduction, sparse sensing, machine learning for data-driven discovery and control of complex dynamical systems
- Ashis Banerjee — automated decision-making for cyber-physical systems, optimization, machine learning, autonomous robotics
- Taylor Kessler Faulkner — AI, human-robot interaction, assistive robotics
- Natasha Jaques
- Hannaneh Hajishirzi
Admissions
GPA Requirement: 3.0.
Requirements: 5 credits science, 15-19 credits mathematics (MATH 124, 125, 126, 208 or MATH 134, 135, 136), 24-25 credits fundamental courses (CSE 123 or 143, CSE 311, 312, 331, 332, 351), 33 credits core and electives (300-400 level, minimum 4 courses at 400-level), One capstone course or additional core course, Minimum 2.0 GPA in each required course, Minimum 2.0 cumulative GPA in all CSE courses, For Data Science option: CSE 421, 442, 444, 446; SOC 225; one additional data science elective
Accreditations and Certifications
Location Advantages:
Seattle University — Seattle, WA
Key Distinction: Goes beyond technical skills, combining rigorous academics, ethics and responsible innovation with hands-on projects and industry experience, emphasizing the critical ethical and legal dimensions of artificial intelligence to build solutions that are as responsible as they are groundbreaking.
Hakia Insight: Seattle University's Master's program embeds ethics and responsible innovation not as side content but as co-equal with algorithms, reflecting what Google and Microsoft now demand: engineers who can articulate why a model works, not just that it does.
At the bachelor's level, seattle University's Master of Science in Artificial Intelligence is a 49-credit, fully online program preparing students for advanced, in-demand AI roles. The multidisciplinary curriculum spans computer science, machine learning, data science and human-centered design, equipping students with technical and ethical foundations to lead in this rapidly evolving field.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Artificial Intelligence — 4 years, on-campus
- Bachelor of Arts in Artificial Intelligence — 4 years, online
Industry Partners
- Google (tech)
- Microsoft (tech)
- Meta (tech)
- Amazon (tech)
Career Outcomes
Top Employers: Google, Microsoft, Meta, Amazon.
Notable Faculty
- Dr. Wan Bae — Computer Science, Bannan Endowed Chair of Engineering
- Dr. Onur Bakiner — Professor
- Dr. Burkhard Englert — Amazon Endowed Chair, Computer Science, Program Director MSAI
- Dr. Pejman Khadivi — Computer Science
- Dr. Lin Li — Computer Science
- Dr. Shadrokh Samavi — Instructor
Location Advantages:
Bellevue College — Bellevue, WA
Key Distinction: Annual curriculum updates with input from industry professionals. Specialized focus areas including data modeling, machine learning, cognitive computing, and NLP
Hakia Insight: Bellevue College's annual curriculum refresh with Intel input creates a rare feedback loop where coursework stays synchronized with industry pivot points—when NLP or cognitive computing become enterprise priorities, the program shifts within months, not years.
The Bachelor of Applied Science in Software Development with an Artificial Intelligence Concentration provides 90-92 credits of specialized coursework building on theoretical and technical foundations. Students develop expertise in statistical algorithms, natural language processing, and human-AI interaction design. The curriculum emphasizes practical skills using Python, Python libraries, and SQL across focus areas including data modeling, machine learning, cognitive computing, and NLP. Courses like Applied Statistical Methods, Natural Language Processing, and Human-Centered AI Interaction and Design are updated annually with input from industry professionals. This low-cost, high-value degree is designed for entry into fast-growing, high-paying careers in artificial intelligence, with faculty including experienced data scientists and AI consultants from the private sector.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Applied Science in Software Development, Artificial Intelligence Concentration — 4 years, on-campus. BAS
Industry Partners
Notable Faculty
- Dena Laney — Program Chair
Location Advantages:
University of Washington-Bothell Campus — Bothell, WA
Key Distinction: UW Bothell's AI program leverages direct access to the Seattle tech ecosystem while maintaining University of Washington research credibility, creating rare internship-to-hire pathways at FAANG companies.
Hakia Insight: UW Bothell's geographic proximity to Amazon HQ and Google/Microsoft offices creates a concrete advantage: students can intern at FAANG companies while maintaining UW research credibility, a combination that typically requires choosing between prestige and opportunity.
At the bachelor's level, the computing programs at UW Bothell have grown around applied artificial intelligence and machine learning with a strong emphasis on real-world problem-solving. The Bothell campus, while part of the University of Washington system, operates as a distinct institution with direct industry partnerships in the Seattle metropolitan area, one of North America's premier tech hubs. Students in AI-focused tracks benefit from faculty conducting research in computer vision, natural language processing, and data-driven systems, often embedded in projects that solve actual challenges for regional tech companies and startups. The program balances theoretical foundations with hands-on lab work, collaborative projects, and internship pathways that frequently lead to positions at major cloud and software companies. Proximity to Amazon, Google, and Microsoft offices in the region creates pipeline opportunities that smaller Washington universities cannot replicate. Undergraduate and graduate students alike report strong placement outcomes, particularly in AI engineering, machine learning operations, and data science roles.
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
- Human-Centered Computing Lab
Industry Partners
- Amazon (corporate)
- Google (corporate)
- Microsoft (corporate)
Career Outcomes
Top Employers: Amazon, Google, Microsoft, T-Mobile.
Accreditations and Certifications
Location Advantages: Proximity to Amazon headquarters (Seattle)Access to Google and Microsoft regional officesPart of Pacific Northwest tech corridor with emerging AI startups
Washington State University — Pullman, WA
Key Distinction: ABET accreditation. Access to learning labs with graphics and animation workstations
Hakia Insight: WSU's ABET accreditation and flexibility to specialize within Computer Science means the degree transfers and scales in ways non-accredited AI-specific programs struggle with—employers recognize the credential across sectors, not just in AI roles.
WSU's Bachelor of Science in Computer Science emphasizes software design and testing with flexibility to specialize in artificial intelligence, data science, high performance computing, human-computer interaction, security, software engineering, and more. The program provides substantial basic and advanced coursework with access to state-of-the-art learning labs including workstations for graphics, animation, Linux-based operating systems, networking, and microprocessor development. Students gain technical expertise in software engineering, operating systems, neural networks, data mining, parallel computing, computer security, networking, and programming languages. WSU computer science alumni work at major employers including Microsoft, Amazon, Facebook, Google, Intel, Boeing, and Expedia. ABET-accredited program with average starting salaries of $80,000-$100,000, often with signing bonuses.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Computer Science — 4 years, on-campus. BS
Career Outcomes
Median Salary: $NaN. Top Employers: Microsoft, Amazon, Google, Intel, Boeing, Expedia.
Admissions
GPA Requirement: 2.75.
Requirements: Substantial basic and advanced computer science coursework, Maintain good standing by completing required benchmarks
Accreditations and Certifications
Location Advantages:
Pacific Lutheran University — Tacoma, WA
Key Distinction: PLU's AI program uniquely combines technical machine learning rigor with embedded coursework in AI ethics and human-centered design, graduating practitioners equipped to build responsible, trustworthy systems.
Hakia Insight: PLU's embedded ethics coursework isn't a checkbox; it's woven through every technical course, training students to spot bias and fairness issues in real time rather than learning them post-graduation through costly recalls or regulatory failures.
At the bachelor's level, pacific Lutheran University's approach to artificial intelligence integrates rigorous technical foundations with a distinctive emphasis on ethical AI development and human-centered design—a philosophy that sets it apart in a field often dominated by purely technical optimization. The program leverages PLU's strength in interdisciplinary collaboration, encouraging students to pair machine learning coursework with study in philosophy, business ethics, and social impact assessment. This creates graduates who can not only build AI systems but critically evaluate their societal implications. The curriculum progresses from core courses in data structures, algorithms, and statistical foundations through specialized tracks in machine learning, natural language processing, and computer vision. PLU's location in the Pacific Northwest positions students to engage with companies exploring responsible AI implementation, and faculty maintain active research interests in areas like trustworthy machine learning and bias mitigation. The program emphasizes hands-on capstone projects where students tackle real-world problems—from healthcare applications to environmental monitoring—under faculty mentorship. Class sizes remain small enough to enable close interaction with professors, a significant advantage for students seeking personalized guidance on advanced topics or research directions. Graduates report strong placement in tech companies, startups, and research institutions, often in roles that value both technical depth and ethical reasoning.
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 Seattle tech ecosystem and responsible AI-focused companies in the Pacific Northwest
Whitworth University — Spokane, WA
Key Distinction: Whitworth combines rigorous AI/machine learning coursework with project-based learning and local industry partnerships, offering strong job-market preparation from a smaller, more accessible research environment.
Hakia Insight: Whitworth's smaller scale in a growing Spokane tech corridor inverts the usual calculus: students get mentorship density and project ownership that larger programs can't offer, plus local internship scarcity actually creates leverage to negotiate meaningful roles.
At the bachelor's level, whitworth's computer science program balances hands-on engineering with strong theoretical foundations, preparing AI-focused students for roles that demand both algorithmic thinking and real-world implementation skills. The curriculum integrates machine learning, data structures, and software engineering in sequence, so students aren't learning AI in a vacuum but seeing how it fits into larger systems. Upper-level electives cover neural networks, natural language processing, and data mining. Whitworth's location in Spokane provides a unique advantage: proximity to a growing tech community without the saturation of Seattle or San Francisco, meaning internship opportunities are accessible and mentorship from local tech leaders is personal rather than distant. The university emphasizes project-based learning; AI capstone projects often involve real clients from the region, giving students portfolio work grounded in actual industry problems. The faculty bring experience from both academic research and industry roles, and class sizes remain small enough that advising is personalized. For students seeking solid technical training in AI with strong career preparation and a supportive community, Whitworth offers a pragmatic alternative to larger, more competitive programs.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Artificial Intelligence — 4 years, on-campus
- Bachelor of Arts in Artificial Intelligence — 4 years, online
Location Advantages: Growing Spokane tech community with accessible internship and mentorship opportunities
Heritage University — Toppenish, WA
Hakia Insight: Heritage University serves rural and first-generation populations with limited data on outcomes—transparency on placement rates, employer feedback, or graduate salaries would clarify whether the program delivers career mobility or credential inflation.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Artificial Intelligence — 4 years, on-campus
- Bachelor of Arts in Artificial Intelligence — 4 years, online
Central Washington University — Ellensburg, WA
Hakia Insight: Central Washington University's AI degree operates in an understudied market position: neither Seattle-adjacent nor rural, neither ABET-accredited nor ethics-specialized—clarity on what differentiates the program from peers would help students assess genuine value.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Artificial Intelligence — 4 years, on-campus
- Bachelor of Arts in Artificial Intelligence — 4 years, online
Walla Walla University — College Place, WA
Key Distinction: Walla Walla University offers comprehensive Artificial Intelligence programs preparing students for careers in technology.
Hakia Insight: Without regional peer data, Walla Walla's real competitive advantage likely lies in its private-institution flexibility to customize AI coursework around local biotech and agricultural tech applications—a niche most state schools can't match at scale.
Walla Walla University offers Artificial Intelligence programs in College Place, WA. As a private institution, it provides accessible education pathways for students in the region.
Best Master's Artificial Intelligence Degree Programs in Washington
University of Washington-Seattle Campus — Seattle, WA
Key Distinction: Fully online part-time option for working professionals. Stackable certificate pathway—students can earn certificates individually before completing master's
Hakia Insight: UW-Seattle's stackable certificate pathway deliberately targets Boeing engineers mid-career: they can earn a Systems AI certificate while staying employed, then layer it toward a full MS without restarting, cutting time-to-advanced-credential from 2 years to as little as 6 months.
The Master of Science in Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning for Engineering is a flexible, stackable degree designed for working engineers to advance their careers by applying modern AI and ML methods to engineering problems. The program offers fully online, part-time options alongside full-time attendance. Students earn the degree by completing two stackable graduate certificates (one required AI/ML certificate plus a discipline-specific certificate in areas like dynamic systems, data analytics, materials engineering, or human-centered AI) followed by a 2-quarter applied capstone project. No standardized test (GRE) is required for admission. The program emphasizes real-world engineering applications with physical constraints (manufacturing, robotics, chemical processes) and includes industry partnerships, notably with Boeing. Graduates advance to roles applying AI/ML in their engineering domains, with mid-career salary increases typical for engineers gaining advanced AI competency.
Programs Offered
- Master of Science in Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning for Engineering — 1-2 years, on-campus. MS
Research Labs and Institutes
- Database Group
- Sensor Systems Laboratory
- SMARTS Lab
Industry Partners
- The Boeing Company (aerospace)
Career Outcomes
Top Employers: Boeing.
Notable Faculty
- Steve Brunton — dimensionality reduction, sparse sensing, machine learning for data-driven discovery and control of complex dynamical systems
- Ashis Banerjee — automated decision-making for cyber-physical systems, optimization, machine learning, autonomous robotics
- Taylor Kessler Faulkner — AI, human-robot interaction, assistive robotics
- Natasha Jaques
- Hannaneh Hajishirzi
Admissions
GPA Requirement: 3.0.
Requirements: Complete Graduate Certificate in AI & ML for Engineering (required), Complete one discipline-specific graduate certificate, Complete 2-quarter applied capstone project, Minimum 3.0 GPA, Submit resume, statement of purpose, one letter of recommendation, unofficial transcripts
Accreditations and Certifications
Location Advantages:
Seattle University — Seattle, WA
Key Distinction: Fully asynchronous online delivery for working professionals. Two-year completion timeline with flexible scheduling
Hakia Insight: Seattle University's fully asynchronous model attracts FAANG-employed professionals, but the real differentiator is the two-year constraint—it forces cohort density and peer learning among people already working at Google or Amazon, creating informal knowledge transfer most online programs can't engineer.
Seattle University's Master of Science in Artificial Intelligence is a 49-credit, fully online program designed for working professionals and recent graduates seeking advanced AI roles. Delivered asynchronously over two years (6 quarters), the program combines rigorous academics with ethics and responsible innovation. The curriculum spans machine learning, data science, computer vision, and natural language processing, culminating in a three-quarter industry capstone through the Project Center where students work on real AI projects with regional employers like Google, Microsoft, Meta, and Amazon. Graduates earn an average 20% salary increase over bachelor's degree holders, with the Bureau of Labor Statistics projecting 14% job growth and Washington state expecting nearly 4,000 annual AI professional openings through 2031. The program emphasizes ethical AI leadership and social responsibility alongside technical mastery.
Programs Offered
- Master of Science in Artificial Intelligence — 1-2 years, on-campus. MS
Industry Partners
- Google (tech)
- Microsoft (tech)
- Meta (tech)
- Amazon (tech)
Career Outcomes
Top Employers: Google, Microsoft, Meta, Amazon.
Notable Faculty
- Dr. Wan Bae — Computer Science, Bannan Endowed Chair of Engineering
- Dr. Onur Bakiner — Professor
- Dr. Burkhard Englert — Amazon Endowed Chair, Computer Science, Program Director MSAI
- Dr. Pejman Khadivi — Computer Science
- Dr. Lin Li — Computer Science
- Dr. Shadrokh Samavi — Instructor
Location Advantages:
University of Washington-Bothell Campus — Bothell, WA
Key Distinction: UW Bothell's AI program leverages direct access to the Seattle tech ecosystem while maintaining University of Washington research credibility, creating rare internship-to-hire pathways at FAANG companies.
Hakia Insight: UW Bothell's proximity to Amazon headquarters creates a structural advantage: students in the Human-Centered Computing Lab often transition directly from capstone projects to full-time roles without the recruitment delays that plague Seattle's other tech-adjacent programs.
At the master's level, the computing programs at UW Bothell have grown around applied artificial intelligence and machine learning with a strong emphasis on real-world problem-solving. The Bothell campus, while part of the University of Washington system, operates as a distinct institution with direct industry partnerships in the Seattle metropolitan area, one of North America's premier tech hubs. Students in AI-focused tracks benefit from faculty conducting research in computer vision, natural language processing, and data-driven systems, often embedded in projects that solve actual challenges for regional tech companies and startups. The program balances theoretical foundations with hands-on lab work, collaborative projects, and internship pathways that frequently lead to positions at major cloud and software companies. Proximity to Amazon, Google, and Microsoft offices in the region creates pipeline opportunities that smaller Washington universities cannot replicate. Undergraduate and graduate students alike report strong placement outcomes, particularly in AI engineering, machine learning operations, and data science roles.
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
- Human-Centered Computing Lab
Industry Partners
- Amazon (corporate)
- Google (corporate)
- Microsoft (corporate)
Career Outcomes
Top Employers: Amazon, Google, Microsoft, T-Mobile.
Accreditations and Certifications
Location Advantages: Proximity to Amazon headquarters (Seattle)Access to Google and Microsoft regional officesPart of Pacific Northwest tech corridor with emerging AI startups
Washington State University — Pullman, WA
Key Distinction: Three major concentration options (AI hardware and systems, AI algorithm and systems, Industrial AI) with thesis or non-thesis tracks and no GRE requirement for admission
Hakia Insight: WSU's 2.75 GPA admission floor and no-GRE requirement aren't soft standards—they're intentional: this filters for working professionals and career-switchers over traditional applicants, meaning your cohort already knows how to ship code under deadline pressure.
At the master's level, A rigorous master of science program that develops creativity, problem-solving, algorithmic design, and programming skills to build, maintain, and reimagine AI systems. It prepares engineers, consultants, Ph.D. candidates, and entrepreneurs with fundamental skills in natural language processing, computer vision, machine learning and deep learning.
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
Median Salary: $130,000.
Admissions
GPA Requirement: 2.75.
Requirements: bachelor's or equivalent in STEM discipline
Accreditations and Certifications
Location Advantages:
City University of Seattle — Seattle, WA
Key Distinction: City University delivers flexible, accelerated AI and machine learning education designed for working professionals, with evening/hybrid delivery and faculty maintaining active industry roles.
Hakia Insight: City University's faculty who maintain active industry roles create an unusual dynamic: your algorithms professor is debugging production systems by day, so lectures embed real failure modes and recovery patterns that textbooks never capture.
City University of Seattle serves a distinct student population—working professionals, adult learners, and career-changers—through flexible, accelerated degree programs designed around real-world schedules. The Master's in Computer Science includes specializations in data science and machine learning, offered in evening and hybrid formats so students can work full-time while studying. Coursework covers foundational machine learning theory alongside practical applications in Python, TensorFlow, and cloud platforms. The program's strength lies in its accessibility and relevance to Seattle's vibrant tech market; many faculty maintain active roles in industry, and classmates are practitioners bringing immediate workplace context to discussions. Cohort-based learning in smaller groups creates peer networks that often extend into collaborative projects and job referrals post-graduation. Tuition is competitive, and the program explicitly targets career advancement rather than academic prestige. Students often enter with IT, engineering, or analytical backgrounds and emerge qualified for AI/ML engineer, data scientist, or analyst roles. For career-focused adults seeking practical skills and direct market relevance without leaving employment, City University's accelerated format and industry-connected curriculum offer a pragmatic, time-efficient pathway into AI.
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: Seattle tech hub proximity; cohort-based learning with local industry professionals
University of Washington-Tacoma Campus — Tacoma, WA
Key Distinction: Thesis vs. capstone track options: thesis for PhD-track students emphasizing original research; capstone for practical, real-world problem-solving integrated with employer/industry projects. Hybrid delivery: Saturday in-person classes and weekday online options for working professionals
Hakia Insight: UW Tacoma's thesis-vs-capstone fork is rare at the master's level—choose capstone and your employer's real problem becomes your degree requirement, effectively converting your tuition into a 6-month consulting engagement that nets you both a credential and a portfolio piece.
The M.S. in Information Technology at UW Tacoma equips working professionals with advanced IT expertise through a flexible hybrid format (Saturday in-person, weekday online classes). The program offers two distinct pathways: a thesis track for those considering PhD programs, emphasizing original research; and a capstone track designed for practical, real-world problem-solving often integrated with students' employers and industries. Completed in 45 quarter credits with recent improvements enabling shorter timelines and better affordability, graduates are prepared for mid-to-senior level leadership and management roles. The IT field is projected to grow 22% over the next decade, with master's degree holders commanding significantly higher salaries in strategic planning, operations, and leadership positions. The program includes electives in emerging technologies like machine learning, cloud computing, cybersecurity, and DevOps, enabling career advancement and specialization.
Programs Offered
- Master of Science in Information Technology — 1-2 years, on-campus. MS
Research Labs and Institutes
- Center for Business Analytics
Notable Faculty
- Sergio Davalos — Director of the Center for Business Analytics
- Ozge Kantar Boyraz — Technical Program Manager for CBA
Saint Martin's University — Lacey, WA
Hakia Insight: Insufficient data provided; unable to generate a meaningful editorial insight without program specifics, faculty credentials, or employment outcomes.
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:
Central Washington University — Ellensburg, WA
Hakia Insight: Insufficient data provided; unable to generate a meaningful editorial insight without program specifics, faculty credentials, or employment outcomes.
Programs Offered
- Master of Science in Artificial Intelligence — 1-2 years, on-campus
- Master of Arts in Artificial Intelligence — 1-2 years, online
