Top 3 AI Programs in Washington 2025
University of Washington-Seattle Campus
833 Artificial Intelligence graduates annually, 97% graduation rate
University of Washington-Bothell Campus
202 Artificial Intelligence graduates annually, 69% graduation rate
Seattle University
84 Artificial Intelligence graduates annually, 92% graduation rate
- 1.Washington has 12 accredited AI and machine learning degree programs, led by University of Washington's globally ranked program
- 2.University of Washington ranks #1 in Washington with 84% graduation rate and partnerships with Amazon, Microsoft, and Allen Institute
- 3.Washington AI engineers earn median $168,440 annually—highest in the nation outside California and New York
- 4.Seattle's tech ecosystem provides 15,000+ AI/ML job openings with companies like Amazon Web Services, Microsoft Research, and 200+ AI startups
- 5.In-state students save $38,000+ annually at UW compared to private alternatives while accessing world-class AI research facilities
AI Education Landscape in Washington State
Washington state offers some of the strongest artificial intelligence programs in the nation, anchored by the University of Washington's Paul Allen School and supported by the state's thriving tech ecosystem. With major AI companies like Amazon, Microsoft, and the Allen Institute for AI headquartered here, students gain unparalleled access to research opportunities, internships, and career pathways.
The state's AI programs range from research-focused university offerings to practical, industry-aligned curricula. For broader context, see our national AI bachelor's rankings and AI master's programs guide. Career-focused students should review our AI/ML engineer salary guide for Washington-specific compensation data and growth projections.
Washington AI Program Rankings 2025
| Rank | |||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | University of Washington-Seattle Campus | Seattle, WA | Public | $11,524 | 97% | — | 95.1 |
| 2 | University of Washington-Bothell Campus | Bothell, WA | Public | $11,524 | 69% | — | 58.8 |
| 3 | Seattle University | Seattle, WA | Private | $53,235 | 92% | — | 58.8 |
| 4 | Washington State University | Pullman, WA | Public | $10,976 | — | — | 54.9 |
| 5 | Pacific Lutheran University | Tacoma, WA | Private | $49,472 | 100% | — | 53.8 |
| 6 | Whitworth University | Spokane, WA | Private | $49,600 | 92% | — | 52.4 |
| 7 | Heritage University | Toppenish, WA | Private | $19,920 | 84% | — | 52.2 |
| 8 | Bellevue College | Bellevue, WA | Public | $4,074 | 96% | — | 51.6 |
| 9 | Walla Walla University | College Place, WA | Private | $31,899 | — | — | 47 |
| 10 | Gonzaga University | Spokane, WA | Private | $52,540 | — | — | 45.4 |
| 11 | Central Washington University | Ellensburg, WA | Public | $7,021 | — | — | 45.1 |
| 12 | University of Puget Sound | Tacoma, WA | Private | $59,340 | — | — | 42.5 |
Showing 1–12 of 15
Top 5 Artificial Intelligence Programs in Washington: Side-by-Side
| School | U of Washington | Seattle | Bellevue College | Washington State | Pacific Lutheran |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rank | #1 | #2 | #3 | #4 | #5 |
| In-State Tuition | $11,524 | $53,235 | $4,074 | $10,976 | $49,472 |
| Graduation Rate | 97% | 92% | 96% | N/A% | 100% |
| Annual Graduates | 833 | 82 | 37 | 193 | 18 |
| Acceptance Rate | 43% | 76% | N/A | 85% | 81% |
| Type | Public | Private | Public | Public | Private |
| Score | 95.1/100 | 61.6/100 | 61.2/100 | 54.9/100 | 53.8/100 |
Best Bachelor's Degree Programs in Artificial Intelligence in Washington
Washington offers 15 bachelor's-level artificial intelligence programs. The top schools for undergraduate study are University of Washington-Seattle Campus, Seattle University, Bellevue College. These programs prepare students for entry-level positions paying approximately $101,661 in the Washington market.
A bachelor's in artificial intelligence typically requires 120-128 credit hours and takes 4 years to complete. For national rankings, see our Best Artificial Intelligence Bachelor's Programs guide.
Top 3 Artificial Intelligence Bachelor's Programs in Washington
| School | Tuition | Grad Rate | Graduates | Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 U of Washington | $11,524 | 97% | 833 | 95.1 |
| #2 Seattle | $53,235 | 92% | 84 | 61.7 |
| #3 Bellevue College | $4,074 | 96% | 37 | 61.2 |
Top Artificial Intelligence Schools for Master's Degrees in Washington
For graduate study, Washington offers 8 master's-level artificial intelligence programs. Leading institutions include University of Washington-Seattle Campus, Seattle University, University of Washington-Bothell Campus. A master's degree can boost earning potential by 15-25%, with senior roles in Washington reaching $188,799 or more.
Top 3 Artificial Intelligence Master's Programs in Washington
| School | Tuition | Grad Rate | Graduates | Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 U of Washington | $11,524 | 97% | 107 | 95.1 |
| #2 Seattle | $53,235 | 92% | 82 | 61.6 |
| #3 U of Washington-Bothell | $11,524 | 69% | 52 | 49.8 |
Most Affordable Artificial Intelligence Colleges in Washington
For budget-conscious students, the most affordable artificial intelligence programs in Washington are at Bellevue College ($4,074/year), Central Washington University ($7,021/year), Washington State University ($10,976/year). These programs offer strong ROI given Washington's competitive tech salaries.
At Bellevue College, a 4-year degree costs approximately $16,296 in tuition alone. With entry-level salaries around $101,661, graduates can typically recoup their investment within 0.2 years.
Most Affordable Artificial Intelligence Programs in Washington (with ROI)
| School | Annual Tuition | 4-Year Cost | Payback Period | Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 Bellevue College | $4,074 | $16,296 | 0.2 years | Public |
| #2 Central Washington | $7,021 | $28,084 | 0.4 years | Public |
| #3 Washington State | $10,976 | $43,904 | 0.7 years | Public |
University of Washington-Seattle Campus
Seattle, WA • Public
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $11,524 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 97% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Artificial Intelligence Graduates: 833 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 43%
- • Ranking Score: 95.1 / 100
Program Strengths
- 97% graduation rate
- 833 artificial intelligence graduates annually
- Public institution
- Overall score: 95.1 / 100
Why Ranked #1
Ranked #1 based on graduation rate (97%), program size (833 graduates), state salary outcomes ($145,230), and selectivity (43% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Why Choose This Program
UW offers multiple AI pathways including undergraduate Computer Science with AI focus, graduate certificates in Modern AI Methods, and a new Master's in AI & Machine Learning for Engineering starting Fall 2026. The program combines theoretical foundations with hands-on experience and offers flexible online options for working professionals.
Admission Prerequisites
- •MATH 124
- •MATH 125
- •MATH 126
- •CSE 123 or CSE 143
- •5 credits from approved natural science courses
- •5 credits of English composition
- •Calculus I & II
- •Functions of several variables
- •Matrix operations
- •Linear systems of equations
- •Eigenvalues and Eigenvectors
- •Bayesian Statistics
- •Object-oriented programming
Admissions
- Min GPA: 3.0
- Transfer Friendly
Program Details
- Credits: 77-82 Credits
Career Outcomes
- Job Placement: 85%
Available Specializations / Concentrations
Seattle University
Seattle, WA • Private
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $53,235 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 92% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Artificial Intelligence Graduates: 82 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 76%
- • Ranking Score: 61.6 / 100
Program Strengths
- 92% graduation rate
- 82 artificial intelligence graduates annually
- Private institution
- Overall score: 61.6 / 100
Why Ranked #2
Ranked #2 based on graduation rate (92%), program size (82 graduates), state salary outcomes ($145,230), and selectivity (76% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Why Choose This Program
The MS in Artificial Intelligence program offers online flexibility with no application fee, incorporates elements of machine learning, big data, programming and ethics, and provides access to Seattle's leading tech employers through strong industry connections.
Admission Prerequisites
- •Elementary Probability and Statistics
- •Programming course in Python
- •Integral Calculus
Admissions
- Min GPA: 3.0
- Transfer Friendly
Career Outcomes
- Top Employers: Amazon, Microsoft, Boeing, Costco
Bellevue College
Bellevue, WA • Public
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $4,074 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 96% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Artificial Intelligence Graduates: 37 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: N/A%
- • Ranking Score: 61.2 / 100
Program Strengths
- 96% graduation rate
- 37 artificial intelligence graduates annually
- Public institution
- Overall score: 61.2 / 100
Why Ranked #3
Ranked #3 based on graduation rate (96%), program size (37 graduates), state salary outcomes ($145,230), and selectivity (N/A% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Why Choose This Program
Bellevue College offers both an AAS-T in Artificial Intelligence and a BAS in Software Development with AI concentration, providing pathways from associate to bachelor's level. The programs combine practical programming skills in Python with specialized AI applications including machine learning, computer vision, and robotics control systems.
Admission Prerequisites
- •Associate degree in information technology or computer science-related field
- •minimum grade of C in all prerequisite courses
- •at least 20-21 credits of general education requirements
Admissions
- Min GPA: 2.0
- Transfer Friendly
Available Specializations / Concentrations
Washington State University
Pullman, WA • Public
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $10,976 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: N/A% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Artificial Intelligence Graduates: 193 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 85%
- • Ranking Score: 54.9 / 100
Program Strengths
- N/A% graduation rate
- 193 artificial intelligence graduates annually
- Public institution
- Overall score: 54.9 / 100
Why Ranked #4
Ranked #4 based on graduation rate (N/A%), program size (193 graduates), state salary outcomes ($145,230), and selectivity (85% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Pacific Lutheran University
Tacoma, WA • Private
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $49,472 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 100% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Artificial Intelligence Graduates: 18 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 81%
- • Ranking Score: 53.8 / 100
Program Strengths
- 100% graduation rate
- 18 artificial intelligence graduates annually
- Private institution
- Overall score: 53.8 / 100
Why Ranked #5
Ranked #5 based on graduation rate (100%), program size (18 graduates), state salary outcomes ($145,230), and selectivity (81% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Career Paths
AI/Machine Learning Engineer
SOC 15-1299.08Develop and deploy AI models for tech giants and startups. High demand in Seattle's tech corridor.
Data Scientist
SOC 15-2051Analyze complex datasets using AI and statistical methods. Strong demand across industries.
Software Engineer (AI Focus)
SOC 15-1252Build AI-powered applications and systems. Excellent opportunities at major tech companies.
Research Scientist
Conduct advanced AI research at tech companies, institutes, and universities.
AI Product Manager
Lead AI product development and strategy at technology companies.
Washington's University Systems for AI Education
Washington's public university system offers excellent value for AI education. The University of Washington system leads with three campuses, while the regional universities provide more affordable alternatives with growing AI programs.
The University of Washington system includes the flagship Seattle campus with world-class AI research, UW Bothell with growing tech programs, and UW Tacoma focusing on applied computing. Regional universities like Western Washington, Central Washington, and Eastern Washington offer smaller programs with lower costs and more personalized attention.
Private institutions like Seattle University, Gonzaga, and Pacific Lutheran provide small class sizes and strong industry connections, particularly valuable for students seeking mentorship and networking opportunities in AI fields.
Other Tech Degree Programs in Washington
AI Programs in Other States
California
Texas
New York
Massachusetts
Florida
Which Should You Choose?
- Access to world-class AI research at University of Washington
- Direct pipelines to Amazon, Microsoft, and Seattle tech scene
- Lower cost of education compared to California alternatives
- Strong job market with highest AI salaries outside California/New York
- Collaborative tech culture with work-life balance
- Proximity to AI innovation hubs and research institutes
- More diverse AI program options (California has 45+ programs)
- Warmer climate and different lifestyle preferences
- Specialized AI tracks in finance (New York) or aerospace (California)
- Lower cost of living (Texas, North Carolina)
- More startup ecosystem diversity (California, Texas)
Frequently Asked Questions About AI Programs in Washington
Based on 12 programs from IPEDS 2023, BLS OES May 2024
Artificial Intelligence degree completions indicating program size, faculty, and resources
6-year completion rate from IPEDS 2023 (4-year institutions weighted higher)
Admission rate from IPEDS 2023 (lower = more selective)
State-specific artificial intelligence salaries from BLS OES 2024
Related AI Education Resources
Data Sources and Methodology
Official federal database for graduation rates, enrollment, and institutional data
Washington state salary data for AI and technology occupations
State-specific employment trends and workforce data
Faculty research impact, citations, and AI publication metrics
Source: LinkedIn, Indeed job postings December 2025
Taylor Rupe
Full-Stack Developer (B.S. Computer Science, B.A. Psychology)
Taylor combines formal training in computer science with a background in human behavior to evaluate complex search, AI, and data-driven topics. His technical review ensures each article reflects current best practices in semantic search, AI systems, and web technology.