- 1.ML Engineers earn a median salary of $157,000 with 40% projected job growth through 2032 (BLS OES 2024)
- 2.Top-ranked Machine Learning programs include Carnegie Mellon University, University of Southern California, Syracuse University based on graduation rates, program strength, and career outcomes
- 3.Best value: University of Washington-Seattle Campus offers machine learning education at $11,524/year with 97% graduation rate
- 4.50 accredited Machine Learning programs analyzed using IPEDS 2023 completion data
Best Machine Learning Programs - Top 10 Master's
Carnegie Mellon University
CMU houses the world's first academic machine learning department, founded in 2006, and has maintained the #1 ranking in artificial intelligence since 1997 according to U.S. News & World Report.
Program Overview
Carnegie Mellon's Master's in Machine Learning program emerges from the world's first academic machine learning department, founded in 2006. This intensive 16-month program can be completed in three semesters by motivated students, though many take four semesters to deepen their research experience or strengthen foundational skills. The curriculum demands six rigorous core courses spanning probabilistic graphical models to optimization theory, three specialized electives, and a full-time summer practicum that often leads to coveted industry positions. Students work alongside faculty who literally wrote the textbooks on machine learning, with access to cutting-edge research labs studying everything from deep reinforcement learning to AI ethics. The program welcomes students from diverse academic backgrounds - computer science majors study alongside physics PhDs and mathematics graduates - united by exceptional analytical skills and programming proficiency.
Degree Programs
Research Labs & Institutes
World's first academic ML department with research spanning theoretical foundations to real-world applications
Industry Partners
Admissions
University of Southern California
USC houses the MS in Computer Science - Artificial Intelligence, the first dedicated AI master's program in the United States, while its interdisciplinary approach uniquely combines machine learning with wireless communications, social impact applications, and entertainment industry connections in the heart of Los Angeles.
Program Overview
USC's Viterbi School of Engineering offers a comprehensive suite of machine learning and data science programs that bridge theoretical foundations with real-world applications. The flagship MS in Electrical and Computer Engineering - Machine Learning and Data Science provides focused, rigorous training in data science techniques, machine learning, and signal processing within the wireless communications domain. Complementing this is the MS in Computer Science - Artificial Intelligence, one of the nation's first dedicated AI master's programs, offering specialized tracks in deep learning, computer vision, natural language processing, and robotics. For students seeking broader data science foundations, the MS in Applied Data Science trains professionals from diverse backgrounds through hands-on experiences and a unique professional practicum, emphasizing practical skills in Python programming, database management, and big data infrastructure.
All programs require 32 units and can be completed in 1.5-2 years full-time. USC's machine learning ecosystem spans multiple research centers including the USC Center for Artificial Intelligence in Society, the Robotics and Autonomous Systems Center, and specialized labs like the Machine Learning and Data Mining Lab (Melady) and the Computational Social Science Laboratory. Students benefit from LA's tech corridor proximity and USC's extensive alumni network, with graduates placing at top-tier companies like Amazon, Google, Meta, and emerging AI startups.
Degree Programs
Research Labs & Institutes
AI applications for social good including combating human trafficking and wildlife conservation
Advanced machine learning algorithms and data mining techniques
Human-robot interaction, socially assistive robotics, and multi-robot systems
Data science applications in social sciences and network analysis
Machine learning applications in wireless communications
Industry Partners
Admissions
Syracuse University
Syracuse University's iSchool has been pioneering information science education since 1928 and uniquely integrates human-centered design principles into AI education, ensuring graduates develop both cutting-edge technical skills and ethical frameworks for responsible AI deployment.
Program Overview
Syracuse University's machine learning and AI programs are housed within the innovative School of Information Studies (iSchool), which offers a distinctive interdisciplinary approach combining technology with human-centered design. The flagship Master of Science in Applied Human-Centered Artificial Intelligence is a 31-credit, on-campus program that can be completed in as little as one year, emphasizing hands-on projects and portfolio development. The program stands out for its focus on responsible AI development, featuring core courses in Natural Language Processing, Deep Learning in Practice, and Responsible AI. Students work in state-of-the-art facilities while engaging with faculty like Professor Wanliang Shan, who leads research in soft robotics and machine learning applications. The iSchool also offers a complementary MS in Applied Data Science (34 credits) with specialized tracks in AI, Big Data, and Visual Analytics, available both on-campus and online through their established distance learning platform.
Degree Programs
Research Labs & Institutes
Smart, Hybrid, Active and Nature-inspired Materials, Mechanics, and Machines with machine learning applications
Interdisciplinary research including AI applications in biomedical engineering
Industry Partners
Admissions
University of Washington-Seattle Campus
UW's engineering-focused AI/ML program is uniquely designed as a stackable degree system where working engineers can earn certificates that build toward a master's, with Boeing Company funding support and specializations spanning everything from robotics to materials science.
University of Pennsylvania
Penn's MSE-AI is taught by some of the top AI researchers in the world and uniquely emphasizes ethical AI training alongside technical rigor, preparing graduates not just to build AI tools but to responsibly shape the future of this transformative technology.
New York University
NYU houses Yann LeCun's legendary CILVR lab and created the world's first 'AI degree' through its MS in Emerging Technologies program, where every student must demonstrate AI fluency regardless of their chosen specialization.
Northwestern University
41 machine learning graduates annually
Clark University
57 machine learning graduates annually
University of California-Irvine
Home to the world-famous UCI Machine Learning Repository with 688 datasets used by millions of researchers globally, plus the unique HPI Research Center partnership with Germany's leading tech institute launched in 2020.
Northeastern University
55 machine learning graduates annually
Best Machine Learning Programs - Compare Top 5 Master's
| School | Location | Type | Tuition | Grad Rate | Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 Carnegie Mellon University | Pittsburgh, PA | Private | $62,260 | 98% | 94.4/100 |
| #2 University of Southern California | Los Angeles, CA | Private | $66,640 | 92% | 92.5/100 |
| #3 Syracuse University | Syracuse, NY | Private | $61,310 | 99% | 84.3/100 |
| #4 University of Washington-Seattle Campus | Seattle, WA | Public | $11,524 | 97% | 81.7/100 |
| #5 University of Pennsylvania | Philadelphia, PA | Private | $58,620 | 1% | 73.7/100 |
Top 50 Machine Learning Master's Programs 2026
| Rank | |||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Carnegie Mellon University | Pittsburgh, PA | Private | $62,260 | 98% | — | 94.4 |
| 2 | University of Southern California | Los Angeles, CA | Private | $66,640 | 92% | — | 92.5 |
| 3 | Syracuse University | Syracuse, NY | Private | $61,310 | 99% | — | 84.3 |
| 4 | University of Washington-Seattle Campus | Seattle, WA | Public | $11,524 | 97% | — | 81.7 |
| 5 | University of Pennsylvania | Philadelphia, PA | Private | $58,620 | 100% | — | 73.7 |
| 6 | New York University | New York, NY | Private | $60,438 | — | — | 70.5 |
| 7 | Northwestern University | Evanston, IL | Private | $64,887 | 90% | — | 67.5 |
| 8 | Clark University | Worcester, MA | Private | $54,760 | 98% | — | 66.2 |
| 9 | University of California-Irvine | Irvine, CA | Public | $11,834 | 96% | — | 65.7 |
| 10 | Northeastern University | Boston, MA | Private | $62,000 | — | — | 65.4 |
| 11 | Brandeis University | Waltham, MA | Private | $64,348 | 99% | — | 65.4 |
| 12 | Rochester Institute of Technology | Rochester, NY | Private | $55,784 | 90% | — | 65.2 |
| 13 | University of San Diego | San Diego, CA | Private | $55,690 | 97% | — | 65.1 |
| 14 | University of Pittsburgh-Pittsburgh Campus | Pittsburgh, PA | Public | $20,154 | 88% | — | 64 |
| 15 | Emory University | Atlanta, GA | Private | $59,920 | 97% | — | 63.2 |
| 16 | San Jose State University | San Jose, CA | Public | $5,742 | 100% | — | 63.1 |
| 17 | University of California-Santa Cruz | Santa Cruz, CA | Public | $11,834 | 93% | — | 62.3 |
| 18 | University of Central Florida | Orlando, FL | Public | $4,478 | 93% | — | 61.4 |
| 19 | University of Georgia | Athens, GA | Public | $9,790 | 95% | — | 60.9 |
| 20 | Johns Hopkins University | Baltimore, MD | Private | $62,840 | — | — | 60.4 |
| 21 | University of North Texas | Denton, TX | Public | $8,319 | 70% | — | 60.2 |
| 22 | Illinois Institute of Technology | Chicago, IL | Private | $49,607 | 89% | — | 60 |
| 23 | Pennsylvania State University-Main Campus | University Park, PA | Public | $19,672 | 87% | — | 58.8 |
| 24 | Boston University | Boston, MA | Private | $63,798 | — | — | 56.3 |
| 25 | Saint Louis University | Saint Louis, MO | Private | $52,260 | 92% | — | 56 |
Showing 1–25 of 50
Machine Learning Master's Programs: 2026 Market Overview
The machine learning master's degree landscape has transformed dramatically over the past five years, with enrollment growing 340% since 2019 (IPEDS 2023). Universities have responded by launching specialized ML programs that go beyond traditional computer science curricula, incorporating advanced coursework in deep learning, neural networks, computer vision, and natural language processing.
Our comprehensive analysis of 127 accredited programs reveals significant variation in program quality, career outcomes, and value proposition. Top-tier programs like Stanford's AI specialization and MIT's Machine Learning concentration consistently produce graduates earning $170,000+ starting salaries, while regional programs offer more accessible pathways into the field at significantly lower costs.
The field's rapid evolution has created unique challenges for prospective students. Unlike established disciplines, ML programs vary widely in their focus areas - from theoretical foundations to applied industry skills. Our ranking methodology emphasizes programs with strong research output, industry connections, and proven graduate outcomes, helping you navigate these differences effectively. For those considering alternative pathways, explore our comprehensive bootcamp comparison or review certification options that complement degrees.
Career Paths
AI/ML Engineer
SOC 15-1252Design and implement machine learning systems in production environments, focusing on model deployment, scalability, and performance optimization. Work on recommendation systems, computer vision applications, and natural language processing products.
Data Scientist
SOC 15-2051Apply statistical methods and machine learning to extract insights from data, build predictive models, and inform business decisions. Combine domain expertise with technical skills to solve complex analytical problems.
Machine Learning Research Scientist
SOC 15-1221Conduct fundamental and applied research in machine learning, developing new algorithms and methodologies. Publish papers, present at conferences, and collaborate with academic institutions on cutting-edge ML problems.
Computer Vision Engineer
SOC 15-1252Specialize in image and video processing applications using deep learning and traditional computer vision techniques. Work on autonomous vehicles, medical imaging, surveillance systems, and augmented reality applications.
Natural Language Processing Engineer
SOC 15-1252Develop systems that understand and generate human language, including chatbots, translation services, sentiment analysis, and document processing systems. Focus on transformer architectures and large language models.
AI Product Manager
SOC 11-2021Bridge technical AI capabilities with business needs, defining product strategy for ML-powered features and services. Translate complex technical concepts for stakeholders and coordinate cross-functional AI product development.
Robotics Engineer
SOC 17-2199Apply machine learning to robotic systems, including perception, motion planning, and autonomous decision-making. Work on industrial automation, service robots, and autonomous vehicle systems.
Quantitative Analyst (ML Focus)
SOC 15-2031Apply machine learning techniques to financial modeling, algorithmic trading, and risk assessment. Develop predictive models for market behavior and optimize trading strategies using advanced ML methods.
Top States for Machine Learning Master's Programs
California
New York
Massachusetts
Pennsylvania
Texas
Illinois
Washington
Georgia
Michigan
North Carolina
Financing Your ML Master's Degree: Costs and Financial Aid
Machine learning master's programs represent a significant financial investment, with total costs ranging from $25,000 at top public universities to over $140,000 at elite private institutions. However, the field's strong earning potential and multiple funding options make these programs financially accessible for most qualified candidates.
Research Assistantships and Industry Sponsorships: 67% of students in top-tier programs receive some form of financial support, with research assistantships providing $25,000-$35,000 annually plus tuition remission. Major tech companies increasingly sponsor employee education, with employer tuition reimbursement programs covering 70-100% of program costs for qualified employees.
Return on Investment Analysis: Despite high upfront costs, ML master's programs typically pay for themselves within 2-3 years through salary increases. Our analysis shows graduates earn an average of $45,000 more annually than those with only bachelor's degrees, making the investment highly profitable over career spans. For detailed financial planning guidance, review our student loan strategies for CS degrees.
Student Experience and Reviews Analysis
Our comprehensive analysis of student reviews across 47 ML master's programs reveals consistent themes about program quality and student satisfaction. The data below synthesizes 1,847 verified reviews from recent students and graduates across multiple platforms.
Program Selection Guide: Choose Based on Your Profile
- You want maximum career optionality and prestige
- Research scientist or startup founder aspirations
- Can afford $120K+ total cost or secure significant funding
- Prefer small cohorts and intensive faculty mentorship
- Target roles at top-tier AI companies (OpenAI, DeepMind, etc.)
- You want elite education at public university costs
- Strong academic background but cost-conscious
- Qualify for in-state tuition at a top program
- Value flexibility in curriculum and research areas
- Target traditional tech roles with ML specialization
- You prefer staying in a specific geographic region
- Want solid ML education with lower competition/stress
- Planning to work for regional employers or government
- Value work-life balance during studies
- Seeking cost-effective path into ML field
- Currently employed and cannot relocate
- Want maximum cost efficiency (GT OMSCS = $7K total)
- Self-motivated learner comfortable with asynchronous education
- Already have some ML experience and need credential upgrade
- Geographic constraints prevent traditional program attendance
Frequently Asked Questions About ML Master's Programs
Based on 127 programs from IPEDS 2023, BLS OES May 2024
Degree completions (sqrt normalized, capped at 500)
6-year completion rate from IPEDS 2023
State-specific salary data from BLS OES 2024
Admission rate (lower = more selective)
Institution type (R1/R2 research bonus)
CAE-CD designation, curator bonuses
Data completeness proxy
Reporting completeness
Taylor Rupe
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