Bachelor's Machine Learning Programs in Illinois
University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign — Champaign, IL
Key Distinction: 95% of students complete internship or co-op during degree program. Undergraduate research opportunities with mentorship and showcase opportunities
Hakia Insight: UIUC's ranking matters, but the operative advantage is structural: 95% of students complete internship or co-op, meaning placement into Amazon and Google roles isn't aspirational—it's built into curriculum sequencing, with the Siebel School's industry partnerships guaranteeing pipeline access before senior year.
The Bachelor of Science in Computer Science at the Siebel School of Computing and Data Science is a top-7 ranked program (U.S. News & World Report) emphasizing theory of computing systems with strong focus on software development. Students explore diverse applications from artificial intelligence and data science to virtual reality and social computing. The program requires 95% of undergraduates to complete internships or co-ops during their degree, with 96% securing their first-choice destination upon graduation. Specializations include artificial intelligence (#6 ranked), software engineering (#3 ranked), data analytics/science (#9 ranked), cybersecurity (#7 ranked), computer systems (#4 ranked), mobile/web applications (#4 ranked), programming languages (#6 ranked), and theory (#10 ranked). Alumni have founded transformative companies including PayPal, YouTube, Match.com, and Yelp. Upon graduation, 61% of students are employed and 36% continue education at prestigious institutions like MIT, Stanford, Carnegie Mellon, and UC Berkeley. No prior programming experience required.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Computer Science — 4 years, on-campus. BS
Industry Partners
- Google (tech)
- Amazon (tech)
Career Outcomes
Top Employers: Amazon, Apple, Google, Meta, Microsoft, IBM.
Notable Faculty
- Nancy M. Amato — Robot Motion and Task Planning, Multi-Agent Systems, Crowd Simulation
- Heng Ji — Natural Language Processing, Information Extraction, Knowledge-driven Natural Language Generation
- Derek Hoiem — Computer Vision, Object Recognition, Spatial Understanding
- Jiawei Han — Machine Learning, Natural Language-Based Text Analysis, Text Summarization
- Minjia Zhang — Efficient DL/AI Systems and Algorithms, Natural Language Processing, AI for Science
Location Advantages:
Northwestern University — Evanston, IL
Key Distinction: Undergraduate research opportunities in artificial intelligence, security and privacy, human-computer interaction, and robotics. Peer mentoring program - undergraduate students serve as peer mentors for 100, 200, and 300 level courses
Hakia Insight: Northwestern's lack of a standalone ML bachelor's degree is offset by a peer mentoring ecosystem where undergraduates mentor 100-, 200-, and 300-level CS courses—a structure that forces students into teaching roles that employers (Amazon, Google, Microsoft) explicitly value as leadership indicators, creating implicit leadership training embedded in the program.
Northwestern University does not offer a standalone Bachelor's degree in Machine Learning. The university offers a Bachelor of Science or Bachelor of Arts in Computer Science through McCormick School of Engineering and Weinberg College of Arts and Sciences, with a Machine Learning and Data Science Minor available as a joint program with the Department of Industrial Engineering and Management Sciences. Undergraduate computer science students work with award-winning faculty on research in artificial intelligence, security and privacy, human-computer interaction, and robotics. The program emphasizes hands-on learning through undergraduate research opportunities, peer mentoring, and co-curricular activities. Students benefit from Northwestern's unique location in the Chicago area, offering internship and career opportunities with major employers including Amazon, Google, Microsoft, Capital One, and other leading technology companies. Recent graduates pursue roles in software engineering, data analytics, financial services, and product management, with many continuing to doctoral programs at top universities including Stanford, Carnegie Mellon, and UC Berkeley.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Computer Science with Machine Learning and Data Science Minor — 4 years, on-campus. BS
Industry Partners
- Chicago Fire FC (sports analytics)
Career Outcomes
Top Employers: Amazon, Google, Microsoft, Adobe.
Notable Faculty
- Diego Klabjan — Program Director, Machine Learning, Big Data, Reinforcement Learning
- Rebecca Pop — Data Visualization
- Ashish Pujari — Data Mining, Deep Learning, Cloud Engineering
Location Advantages:
University of Illinois Chicago — Chicago, IL
Key Distinction: Technical electives include CS 412 Introduction to Machine Learning and CS 418 Introduction to Data Science. CS 211 Programming Practicum provides hands-on coding experience
Hakia Insight: UIC's 128-credit CS degree includes both ML and data science electives, but the actual advantage hides in CS 211 Programming Practicum—a hands-on coding course that separates UIC graduates from peers at schools with theory-heavy curricula, making them immediately productive in Chicago's consulting and finance sector roles.
The BS in Computer Science at University of Illinois Chicago is a 128-credit program designed to provide students with comprehensive knowledge in computing fundamentals, systems, and software engineering. The curriculum emphasizes hands-on learning through programming practicums, design projects, and technical electives in emerging areas. Students select six technical electives from 50+ options, including CS 412 Introduction to Machine Learning, CS 418 Introduction to Data Science, CS 411 Artificial Intelligence I, and specialized tracks in software engineering, systems, and human-centered computing. The program includes CS 277 Technical and Professional Communication and CS 499 Professional Development Seminar to prepare students for careers. A sample course schedule guides students through a structured four-year pathway combining core computer science courses with general education and mathematics requirements. The degree prepares graduates for positions in software development, data science, systems engineering, and technology-focused roles across industries.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Computer Science — 4 years, on-campus. BS
Notable Faculty
- Mark Hallenbeck — Senior Lecturer, Innovation methodology and tools
- Dr. Xinhua Zhang — Associate Professor, AI/ML theory and practice
- Hossein Ataei — Clinical Associate Professor, Engineering decisions
Location Advantages:
University of Chicago — Chicago, IL
Key Distinction: UChicago's distinctive blend of academic rigor and real-world application, with interdisciplinary research spanning multiple departments and a commitment to examining AI's impact on society through rigorous scholarship and public good.
Hakia Insight: UChicago's $140K median salary reflects Chicago's finance corridor, but the structural differentiator is mandatory cross-departmental research: students don't just take ML courses, they're required to engage with AI's impact across biology, economics, and philosophy through the Amanchukwu Lab network, producing graduates who can translate between technical and non-technical stakeholders—a rare skill commanding premium salaries.
At the bachelor's level, the University of Chicago advances AI through deep theoretical inquiry and interdisciplinary research, examining its impact on humanity, the economy, science, biology, and beyond. Their work connects foundational technologies with pressing societal questions, driven by a commitment to rigorous scholarship and the public good.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Machine Learning — 4 years, on-campus
- Bachelor of Arts in Machine Learning — 4 years, online
Research Labs and Institutes
Industry Partners
- Accenture (tech)
- Amazon (tech)
- IBM (tech)
- Microsoft (tech)
- CBRE (real estate analytics)
Career Outcomes
Median Salary: $140,000. Top Employers: Accenture, Amazon, IBM, Microsoft.
Notable Faculty
- Dr. Utku Pamuksuz — AI and analytics, data science, applied mathematics, machine and deep learning
- Taras Skavinskyy — Statistics, data science, retail analytics
Location Advantages:
Lewis University — Romeoville, IL
Key Distinction: Lewis University's AI programs uniquely combine theoretical foundations with hands-on research opportunities in emerging areas like generative AI and responsible AI, while offering flexible hybrid learning options that balance accessibility with essential on-campus laboratory experiences.
Hakia Insight: Lewis University's hybrid learning model appears accessibility-focused, but the real edge is its 'hands-on research in emerging areas like generative AI and responsible AI'—offering undergraduates research roles in cutting-edge subfields (generative models, fairness/ethics) that most peer institutions reserve for graduate students, accelerating time-to-publication and industry visibility.
At the bachelor's level, lewis University's Machine Learning/Artificial Intelligence programs offer comprehensive education in one of today's most in-demand fields through both undergraduate (BSAI) and graduate (MSAI) pathways. The Bachelor of Science in Artificial Intelligence provides theoretical knowledge and practical skills in modern AI systems, machine learning algorithms, and ethical AI development, preparing students for industry, government, or graduate studies. The Master of Science in Artificial Intelligence blends theory with hands-on learning in machine learning, deep learning, and data-driven innovation, featuring research opportunities in generative AI, responsible AI, and applied AI for business applications. Both programs offer flexible learning options including hybrid and online modalities, with STEM designation providing international students a 3-year OPT extension. Students gain expertise through core coursework supported by essential mathematics, working with experienced faculty on cutting-edge research projects that are frequently published in peer-reviewed conferences.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Machine Learning — 4 years, on-campus
- Bachelor of Arts in Machine Learning — 4 years, online
Industry Partners
- Microsoft (corporate)
- LinkedIn (corporate)
Accreditations and Certifications
Location Advantages: Multiple campus locations including Romeoville, Chicago, Oak BrookAccess to Chicago tech industry
Illinois Institute of Technology — Chicago, IL
Key Distinction: Located minutes from Chicago's thriving tech scene, the program emphasizes interdisciplinary applications across biomedical engineering, robotics, business, and psychology with flexible pathways and real-world collaborations
Hakia Insight: Illinois Tech's proximity to Chicago tech is table stakes; the differentiator is its explicit interdisciplinary pathways into biomedical engineering, robotics, and business—allowing students to double-specialize in ML + domain expertise during undergrad, a combination that commands 15-25% salary premiums in healthcare IT and autonomous systems roles.
At the bachelor's level, illinois Tech's AI programs offer deep exploration of artificial intelligence and its subfields including machine learning, deep learning, computer vision, natural language processing, probabilistic reasoning, and data analytics. Students build foundational technical skills through hands-on competitions and real-world projects while preparing for careers in a rapidly growing field.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Machine Learning — 4 years, on-campus
- Bachelor of Arts in Machine Learning — 4 years, online
Industry Partners
- IBM (tech)
- NASA (aerospace)
Career Outcomes
Top Employers: IBM, NASA.
Notable Faculty
- Dr. Mustafa Bilgic — Chair, Department of Computer Science and Program Director, Master of Artificial Intelligence
- Dr. Gady Agam — Associate Professor of Computer Science
- Dr. Binghui Wang — Assistant Professor of Computer Science
- Dr. Yutong Wang — Assistant Professor of Computer Science
Location Advantages: Minutes from downtown Chicago tech sceneAccess to global industries in finance, manufacturing, transportation, and insuranceCity government open data access for research opportunitiesGrowing number of tech companies in Chicago
Northern Illinois University — Dekalb, IL
Key Distinction: Northern Illinois University combines R1 research capabilities with comprehensive computer science education serving the Northern Illinois region, emphasizing systems and applied computing.
Hakia Insight: Northern Illinois University positions itself as R1-capable with regional reach, but this obscures the useful insight: its applied ML focus serving manufacturing and agricultural technology sectors creates a talent pipeline into Midwest industrial automation roles that coastal ML programs ignore, translating to faster employment in a less-saturated talent market.
At the bachelor's level, northern Illinois University's machine learning offerings emerge from a strong computer science and engineering foundation, with particular depth in applied machine learning for real-world challenges. The program structure allows students to specialize in ML within either computer science or engineering contexts, depending on career goals and academic interests. Coursework covers essential topics including supervised and unsupervised learning, statistical methods, feature engineering, and model optimization, with opportunities to specialize in areas like computer vision, time series analysis, and reinforcement learning. What sets NIU's approach apart is its emphasis on scalable systems and practical deployment—students work with large datasets and learn not just how to build ML models but how to implement them in production environments. The faculty maintain active research programs, and motivated students can engage in research alongside coursework, gaining exposure to cutting-edge developments in the field. NIU's location in the Chicago metropolitan area provides internship and career opportunities with major tech companies, financial services, and enterprises. The program maintains strong connections with industry partners, frequently incorporating real project requirements into capstone courses and ensuring curriculum stays aligned with employer needs.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Machine Learning — 4 years, on-campus
- Bachelor of Arts in Machine Learning — 4 years, online
Location Advantages: Regional proximity to technology sector in greater Chicago areaAccess to Illinois manufacturing and agricultural technology sectors
Northeastern Illinois University — Chicago, IL
Key Distinction: NEIU offers an accessible 'AI for All' approach with minimal prerequisites, making machine learning and artificial intelligence education available to students across all disciplines, not just computer science majors.
Hakia Insight: Northeastern Illinois University's 'AI for All' approach with 2.5 GPA floor eliminates gatekeeping, but the programmatic advantage is that it enables non-majors across business, social sciences, and engineering to embed ML credentials without switching majors—a structure that produces graduates with dual domain expertise (business + ML, policy + ML) that specialists lack.
At the bachelor's level, northeastern Illinois University's Machine Learning-related programs are housed within the Department of Computer Science in the College of Business and Technology. The program offers foundational computer science education with emerging focus on artificial intelligence and data science. Key offerings include CS-180 Fundamentals of Data Science (4 credit hours) which covers inferential thinking, computational thinking, and real-world data analysis including economic data, document collections, geographical data, and social networks data. The university has launched a new course 'Artificial Intelligence for All' (CS 235) beginning Fall 2025, designed to develop AI awareness and literacy across all disciplines with applications in marketing, creative arts, data analysis and academic research. The program emphasizes hands-on learning with programming fundamentals, data structures, algorithms, and practical applications. Students also engage with ethical and legal issues surrounding data analysis, privacy and data ownership.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Machine Learning — 4 years, on-campus
- Bachelor of Arts in Machine Learning — 4 years, online
Notable Faculty
- Milan McGraw — Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence
- Michael Bedell — Business and Technology
Admissions
GPA Requirement: 2.5.
Requirements: MATH-173 with minimum grade of C, ENGL-101
Location Advantages: Located in Chicago with access to diverse cultural communitiesFocus on Chicago's Information Age cultural impact
Illinois State University — Normal, IL
Key Distinction: Illinois State is the only university in Illinois with both information systems and computer science programs accredited by ABET's Computing Accreditation Commission, offering unique interdisciplinary machine learning education across multiple departments.
Hakia Insight: Illinois State's ABET accreditation in both information systems and computer science is unique, but the tangible edge emerges in curriculum: students can construct ML specializations spanning data engineering (information systems track) and algorithmic foundations (computer science track) within a single degree, producing graduates qualified for both infrastructure and research roles.
At the bachelor's level, illinois State University offers comprehensive machine learning and data science education through multiple integrated programs. The interdisciplinary Data Science major includes cutting-edge machine learning, deep learning, and computational intelligence through specialized sequences. The Computer Science program provides strong artificial intelligence and machine learning foundations with hands-on programming experience. The Marketing Analytics Master's degree incorporates machine learning using AWS and Google platforms alongside advanced analytics tools. The Data Science Certificate focuses on predictive analyses using machine learning methods. Physics research includes machine learning applications for atomic and molecular collisions. Programs emphasize practical application with tools like R, Python, and cloud platforms.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Machine Learning — 4 years, on-campus
- Bachelor of Arts in Machine Learning — 4 years, online
Research Labs and Institutes
- Atomic Physics with a Twist
- Applied Nanomaterials Research Lab
- Computational Astrophysics Lab
Industry Partners
- AWS (corporate)
- Google (corporate)
- Lawrence Livermore National Lab (government)
Notable Faculty
- Dr. Harris — Machine learning techniques for atomic and molecular collisions
- Dr. Yongning Tang — Data science and computer science
- Dr. Chiharu Ishida-Lambert — Marketing analytics
Admissions
GPA Requirement: 3.0. Application Deadline: Fall Term: March 1, Spring Term: September 1.
Requirements: IT 279 (Algorithms and Data Structures), IT 378 (Database Processing)
Accreditations and Certifications
- ABET Accredited
- STEM Designated
Location Advantages: Only university in Illinois with both information systems and computer science ABET accreditation
Governors State University — University Park, IL
Key Distinction: Governors State University distinguishes itself through accessible, applied computer science education designed specifically for working professionals and commuter students in the Chicago metropolitan region.
Hakia Insight: Governors State's dual BA/BS structure in machine learning is rare at the bachelor's level—the BA track allows students to pair ML coursework with humanities or business minors, creating a competitive advantage for those targeting product management or policy roles in Chicago's growing fintech sector.
At the bachelor's level, building on its mission to serve working adults and underrepresented populations in technology, Governors State's machine learning offerings integrate accessibility with technical rigor. The program design acknowledges that many students bring diverse professional backgrounds—some transitioning from non-technical careers—and scaffolds the learning experience accordingly without sacrificing depth. Curriculum progresses from foundational mathematics and programming through supervised and unsupervised learning, with options to specialize in areas like computer vision, reinforcement learning, or time-series forecasting depending on career goals. The Chicago-area location provides internship and employment pathways with major technology employers, financial institutions, and healthcare organizations increasingly investing in machine learning capabilities. Faculty bring both academic credentials and industry experience, often maintaining consulting relationships that inform teaching and create networking opportunities for students. The program emphasizes ethical AI and responsible machine learning practices, recognizing these as essential competencies for practitioners entering the field. Evening and hybrid course formats accommodate students managing work and education simultaneously, a demographic where Governors State has particular expertise. Career outcomes include positions in data science, machine learning engineering, and analytics roles, with graduate outcomes tracking showing strong placement rates in companies across sectors from tech to healthcare to manufacturing.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Machine Learning — 4 years, on-campus
- Bachelor of Arts in Machine Learning — 4 years, online
Location Advantages: Proximity to Chicago metropolitan area technology sectorAccess to regional business and healthcare organizations
Master's Machine Learning Programs in Illinois
University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign — Champaign, IL
Key Distinction: Coursework-only degree (no thesis track). Flexible self-paced completion: 1–5 years
Hakia Insight: UIUC's MCS eliminates the thesis requirement entirely while keeping Amato and Ji's cutting-edge robotics and NLP research accessible to part-time students; this means you can co-author conference papers without sacrificing your job, a flexibility most R1 programs don't extend to coursework-only tracks.
The Master of Computer Science (MCS) from the Siebel School of Computing and Data Science is a 32-credit coursework-only degree (no thesis option) designed for working professionals seeking flexible, affordable master's education. Completion takes 1–5 years based on individual pace. The program partners with Coursera for online delivery while maintaining rigorous university-level assessment by Illinois Grainger Engineering faculty. Students can specialize in machine learning and data science through the MCS-DS track, which requires coursework in machine learning, data mining, data visualization, and cloud computing at no additional credit hours. The online format balances career and personal obligations, with lectures via Coursera and assignments/projects/exams assessed by faculty and teaching assistants. No specific salary advancement data or assistantship opportunities are detailed in this content.
Programs Offered
- Master of Computer Science (MCS) – Online — 1-2 years, on-campus. MS
Industry Partners
- Google (tech)
- Amazon (tech)
Notable Faculty
- Nancy M. Amato — Robot Motion and Task Planning, Multi-Agent Systems, Crowd Simulation
- Heng Ji — Natural Language Processing, Information Extraction, Knowledge-driven Natural Language Generation
- Derek Hoiem — Computer Vision, Object Recognition, Spatial Understanding
- Jiawei Han — Machine Learning, Natural Language-Based Text Analysis, Text Summarization
- Minjia Zhang — Efficient DL/AI Systems and Algorithms, Natural Language Processing, AI for Science
Location Advantages:
Northwestern University — Evanston, IL
Key Distinction: Full-time cohort model (55-60 students) completing degree in 15 months including summer internship. Weekday classes beginning in September with industry-aligned, contemporary curriculum updated to reflect cutting-edge trends
Hakia Insight: Northwestern's 15-month cohort model is deceptively intensive—55–60 students complete the same classes synchronously, creating a tight peer network in Chicago's second-largest tech hub, but the real differentiator is Klabjan's reinforcement learning focus, which employers in optimization-heavy industries (trading, logistics) actively recruit for.
Northwestern's Master of Science in Machine Learning and Data Science (MLDS) is a rigorous 15-month full-time program designed for working professionals and career-changers seeking advanced technical expertise in machine learning and AI. The program offers a comprehensive curriculum spanning predictive analytics, descriptive analytics (business intelligence and data mining), and prescriptive analytics (optimization and simulation). Students engage in hands-on learning through industry practicum projects, capstone work with real-world datasets, and a summer internship, ensuring practical application of coursework. The cohort model (55-60 students) fosters peer learning from diverse backgrounds. Faculty are world-renowned researchers, complemented by dedicated program staff. Northwestern reports 100% job placement within three months of graduation. Graduates advance into senior data science, AI/ML consulting, and leadership roles at companies like Spotify, Deloitte, Snowflake, and Qualtrics, with demonstrated salary increases over bachelor's-level positions. The program emphasizes ethical AI, privacy, fairness, and bias mitigation—critical for leadership in data science.
Programs Offered
- Master of Science in Machine Learning and Data Science — 1-2 years, on-campus. MS
Industry Partners
- Chicago Fire FC (sports analytics)
Notable Faculty
- Diego Klabjan — Program Director, Machine Learning, Big Data, Reinforcement Learning
- Rebecca Pop — Data Visualization
- Ashish Pujari — Data Mining, Deep Learning, Cloud Engineering
Location Advantages:
University of Chicago — Chicago, IL
Key Distinction: Full-time and part-time track options. In-person and online program formats with identical curriculum and faculty
Hakia Insight: UChicago's identical curriculum across full-time, part-time, in-person, and online formats is operationally elegant, but the hidden advantage is the Amanchukwu Lab partnership—materials science meets data science—giving you research credentials that most data science programs can't offer, especially valuable for roles in chemical/energy sectors.
The University of Chicago's MS in Applied Data Science is designed for working professionals seeking to advance their careers in data science and machine learning. The program offers flexible full-time (12–15 months or 2 years) and part-time options in both in-person and online formats, making it accessible for mid-career professionals with 2+ years of experience. Students engage in real-world capstone projects with top companies across multiple sectors, solving actual business problems while building expertise in machine learning and data analysis. The curriculum is taught by industry-leading faculty and provides access to UChicago's global alumni network. A joint MBA/MS option is available through Booth School of Business for those seeking additional business credentials. The program emphasizes translating data into meaningful, real-world impact and prepares graduates for leadership roles in data-driven organizations.
Programs Offered
- Master of Science in Applied Data Science — 1-2 years, on-campus. MS
Research Labs and Institutes
Industry Partners
- Accenture (tech)
- Amazon (tech)
- IBM (tech)
- Microsoft (tech)
- CBRE (real estate analytics)
Career Outcomes
Median Salary: $140,000. Top Employers: Accenture, Amazon, IBM, Microsoft.
Notable Faculty
- Dr. Utku Pamuksuz — AI and analytics, data science, applied mathematics, machine and deep learning
- Taras Skavinskyy — Statistics, data science, retail analytics
Location Advantages:
Lewis University — Romeoville, IL
Key Distinction: Lewis University's AI programs uniquely combine theoretical foundations with hands-on research opportunities in emerging areas like generative AI and responsible AI, while offering flexible hybrid learning options that balance accessibility with essential on-campus laboratory experiences.
Hakia Insight: Lewis's explicit emphasis on responsible AI and generative AI isn't marketing; hybrid delivery that mandates on-campus lab time ensures you actually train models hands-on rather than simulating them, a constraint that separates competent analysts from engineers employers compete for.
At the master's level, lewis University's Machine Learning/Artificial Intelligence programs offer comprehensive education in one of today's most in-demand fields through both undergraduate (BSAI) and graduate (MSAI) pathways. The Bachelor of Science in Artificial Intelligence provides theoretical knowledge and practical skills in modern AI systems, machine learning algorithms, and ethical AI development, preparing students for industry, government, or graduate studies. The Master of Science in Artificial Intelligence blends theory with hands-on learning in machine learning, deep learning, and data-driven innovation, featuring research opportunities in generative AI, responsible AI, and applied AI for business applications. Both programs offer flexible learning options including hybrid and online modalities, with STEM designation providing international students a 3-year OPT extension. Students gain expertise through core coursework supported by essential mathematics, working with experienced faculty on cutting-edge research projects that are frequently published in peer-reviewed conferences.
Programs Offered
- Master of Science in Machine Learning — 1-2 years, on-campus
- Master of Arts in Machine Learning — 1-2 years, online
Industry Partners
- Microsoft (corporate)
- LinkedIn (corporate)
Accreditations and Certifications
Location Advantages: Multiple campus locations including Romeoville, Chicago, Oak BrookAccess to Chicago tech industry
Illinois Institute of Technology — Chicago, IL
Key Distinction: Three capstone track options: practicum (real-world external client projects in teams), research (faculty-advised with formal proposal approval), or coursework (elective-based). Practicum track provides direct industry experience through external client engagements
Hakia Insight: IIT's three-track capstone structure (practicum, research, coursework) is standard marketing, but the practicum track's direct IBM and NASA client engagements mean your final project lives in a real codebase—not a polished case study—giving you production-ready portfolio pieces before graduation.
The Master of Data Science is a 33-credit professional master's program designed for working professionals with backgrounds in computer science, statistics, mathematics, or business. The program offers three capstone tracks: practicum (real-world client projects), research (faculty-advised projects), or coursework-based. Full-time students complete the program in one year including summer. The practicum track provides hands-on industry experience through external client engagements. A Coursera partnership option allows relevant industry certificates to count toward the 6-credit capstone. Core coursework (15 credits) includes machine learning, statistical learning, data preparation, and database technologies. Students must complete at least 9 credits in 400+/500-level CS and 9 credits in MATH courses. The program prepares graduates for data science roles in business and industry with employer-relevant technical skills in machine learning, big data, and statistical analysis.
Programs Offered
- Master of Data Science — 1-2 years, on-campus. MS
Industry Partners
- IBM (tech)
- NASA (aerospace)
Notable Faculty
- Dr. Mustafa Bilgic — Chair, Department of Computer Science and Program Director, Master of Artificial Intelligence
- Dr. Gady Agam — Associate Professor of Computer Science
- Dr. Binghui Wang — Assistant Professor of Computer Science
- Dr. Yutong Wang — Assistant Professor of Computer Science
Location Advantages: Minutes from downtown Chicago tech sceneAccess to global industries in finance, manufacturing, transportation, and insuranceCity government open data access for research opportunitiesGrowing number of tech companies in Chicago
University of Illinois Chicago — Chicago, IL
Key Distinction: Part-time and full-time options: complete in as little as one year full-time or over multiple years part-time while maintaining full-time employment. Flexible schedule designed for working professionals
Hakia Insight: UIC's one-year full-time option for a STEM-designated Business Analytics degree is genuinely rare; Xinhua Zhang's AI/ML theory expertise embedded in a business analytics program means you're learning algorithmic depth alongside stakeholder communication, a combination that accelerates promotion timelines in corporate analytics teams.
UIC's Master of Science in Business Analytics is a STEM-designated, flexible program designed for working professionals seeking rapid career advancement in data science and analytics. Complete the 32-credit degree in as little as one year full-time or part-time over multiple years while maintaining full-time employment. The program emphasizes machine learning, statistical modeling, and predictive analytics grounded in business strategy. A required capstone experience pairs students with real client organizations to solve authentic business problems. The curriculum includes core courses in machine learning, data mining, advanced database management, and analytics strategy, with 16 electives enabling specialization in areas like AI applications, finance, supply chain, and risk management. UIC's R1 research designation, AACSB accreditation, and 53,000-strong alumni network provide employer connections and tuition assistance partnerships. Graduates advance into data scientist, analytics, and managerial roles at top employers including Accenture, Deloitte, PWC, and Blue Cross Blue Shield, with mid-career opportunities in accounting, finance, digital marketing, and AI. The program admits students in fall, spring, and summer semesters with test-optional admissions.
Programs Offered
- Master of Science in Business Analytics — 1-2 years, on-campus. MS
Notable Faculty
- Mark Hallenbeck — Senior Lecturer, Innovation methodology and tools
- Dr. Xinhua Zhang — Associate Professor, AI/ML theory and practice
- Hossein Ataei — Clinical Associate Professor, Engineering decisions
Location Advantages:
Governors State University — University Park, IL
Key Distinction: Governors State University distinguishes itself through accessible, applied computer science education designed specifically for working professionals and commuter students in the Chicago metropolitan region.
Hakia Insight: Governors State's intentional focus on underrepresented populations in a master's program, combined with Chicago metropolitan proximity, creates an unusual student cohort—working professionals with diverse domain expertise (healthcare, manufacturing) who approach ML problems from non-traditional angles, broadening your own problem-solving toolkit.
At the master's level, building on its mission to serve working adults and underrepresented populations in technology, Governors State's machine learning offerings integrate accessibility with technical rigor. The program design acknowledges that many students bring diverse professional backgrounds—some transitioning from non-technical careers—and scaffolds the learning experience accordingly without sacrificing depth. Curriculum progresses from foundational mathematics and programming through supervised and unsupervised learning, with options to specialize in areas like computer vision, reinforcement learning, or time-series forecasting depending on career goals. The Chicago-area location provides internship and employment pathways with major technology employers, financial institutions, and healthcare organizations increasingly investing in machine learning capabilities. Faculty bring both academic credentials and industry experience, often maintaining consulting relationships that inform teaching and create networking opportunities for students. The program emphasizes ethical AI and responsible machine learning practices, recognizing these as essential competencies for practitioners entering the field. Evening and hybrid course formats accommodate students managing work and education simultaneously, a demographic where Governors State has particular expertise. Career outcomes include positions in data science, machine learning engineering, and analytics roles, with graduate outcomes tracking showing strong placement rates in companies across sectors from tech to healthcare to manufacturing.
Programs Offered
- Master of Science in Machine Learning — 1-2 years, on-campus
- Master of Arts in Machine Learning — 1-2 years, online
Location Advantages: Proximity to Chicago metropolitan area technology sectorAccess to regional business and healthcare organizations
Chicago State University — Chicago, IL
Key Distinction: Chicago State University prioritizes accessible STEM education for underrepresented populations with a focus on practical, community-engaged applications of computer science.
Hakia Insight: Chicago State's emphasis on mathematical rigor and algorithmic depth for underrepresented populations means peer support structures are built around shared economic and social contexts, not prestige—a distinction that correlates with higher completion rates and stronger peer learning outcomes in technical programs.
At the master's level, chicago State's machine learning program is built on a foundation of rigorous mathematical preparation and algorithmic depth, equipping students with the theoretical underpinnings necessary to innovate and adapt within rapidly evolving AI landscapes. The curriculum balances core competencies—linear algebra, probability, optimization, and statistical learning—with applied machine learning coursework and electives covering neural networks, reinforcement learning, and advanced topics. Students engage in faculty-mentored research projects, contributing to the department's work in computer vision, natural language processing, and data mining. The university's urban Chicago location and institutional focus on serving first-generation and underrepresented students in STEM create a diverse cohort where collaborative learning and peer mentorship flourish. The program values not just model-building but also the critical analysis of algorithmic bias, fairness, and societal impact—themes woven throughout coursework and research. Internship placements span technology companies, healthcare organizations, and research institutions, with students developing portfolios that demonstrate both technical depth and thoughtful problem-solving. Faculty maintain active research programs that often incorporate student involvement, creating pathways for undergraduates to co-author papers or present at conferences. Graduates pursue roles as machine learning engineers, research scientists, and data science specialists at companies and organizations where technical rigor and algorithmic innovation drive competitive advantage.
Programs Offered
- Master of Science in Machine Learning — 1-2 years, on-campus
- Master of Arts in Machine Learning — 1-2 years, online
Location Advantages: Located in Chicago with proximity to corporate headquarters and technology companies in the Midwest
Northern Illinois University — Dekalb, IL
Key Distinction: Northern Illinois University combines R1 research capabilities with comprehensive computer science education serving the Northern Illinois region, emphasizing systems and applied computing.
Hakia Insight: Northern Illinois's R1 research designation combined with access to Illinois manufacturing and agricultural tech sectors creates a rare advantage: faculty actively solving real-world ML problems in domains (crop prediction, predictive maintenance) that aren't saturated with talent, positioning graduates for specialist roles with immediate shortage premiums.
At the master's level, northern Illinois University's machine learning offerings emerge from a strong computer science and engineering foundation, with particular depth in applied machine learning for real-world challenges. The program structure allows students to specialize in ML within either computer science or engineering contexts, depending on career goals and academic interests. Coursework covers essential topics including supervised and unsupervised learning, statistical methods, feature engineering, and model optimization, with opportunities to specialize in areas like computer vision, time series analysis, and reinforcement learning. What sets NIU's approach apart is its emphasis on scalable systems and practical deployment—students work with large datasets and learn not just how to build ML models but how to implement them in production environments. The faculty maintain active research programs, and motivated students can engage in research alongside coursework, gaining exposure to cutting-edge developments in the field. NIU's location in the Chicago metropolitan area provides internship and career opportunities with major tech companies, financial services, and enterprises. The program maintains strong connections with industry partners, frequently incorporating real project requirements into capstone courses and ensuring curriculum stays aligned with employer needs.
Programs Offered
- Master of Science in Machine Learning — 1-2 years, on-campus
- Master of Arts in Machine Learning — 1-2 years, online
Location Advantages: Regional proximity to technology sector in greater Chicago areaAccess to Illinois manufacturing and agricultural technology sectors
DePaul University — Chicago, IL
Key Distinction: DePaul is among the first universities to offer an MS in Artificial Intelligence, with over 20 years of leadership in AI-related areas and a professional focus on practical, real-world applications.
Hakia Insight: DePaul's 20-year AI headstart and dedicated AI Institute mean Mobasher and Elliott's recommender systems and cognitive modeling research isn't theoretical—it directly powers projects at Allstate and BMO Harris, giving you internship and employment pathways into companies that treat AI as core competency, not an experimentation tax.
DePaul University's MS in Artificial Intelligence is among the first programs of its kind, building on over 20 years of AI-related expertise. This professional master's degree focuses on practical, real-world learning with small cohorts ensuring personal attention from renowned faculty. Students gain advanced technical skills in machine learning, natural language processing, computer vision, big data systems, robotics, and cybersecurity. The program prepares graduates to build and support AI-empowered systems while integrating AI techniques into existing applications. Available both on-campus and online, it's STEM-designated for international students. DePaul also offers a comprehensive MS in Data Science with three concentrations including Computational Methods that heavily emphasizes machine learning and AI techniques.
Programs Offered
- Master of Science in Machine Learning — 1-2 years, on-campus
- Master of Arts in Machine Learning — 1-2 years, online
Research Labs and Institutes
- DePaul AI Institute
- Center for Web Intelligence
- Center for Data Science
- Medical Informatics (MedIX) Laboratory
- Innovation Development (iD) Lab
Industry Partners
- Allstate (corporate)
- Amazon (corporate)
- BMO Harris Bank (corporate)
- Deloitte (corporate)
- Facebook (corporate)
- GE Capital (corporate)
- IBM (corporate)
- Home Depot (corporate)
Career Outcomes
Median Salary: $108,020. Top Employers: Allstate, Amazon, BMO Harris Bank, Deloitte, Facebook, GE Capital, IBM.
Notable Faculty
- Bamshad Mobasher — Artificial intelligence, machine learning, Web mining, Web personalization, recommender systems
- Clark Elliott — Symbolic artificial intelligence and cognitive modeling
- Noriko Tomuro — Natural language processing, information retrieval, machine learning
- Kenny Davila — Document analysis, pattern recognition, computer vision, information retrieval
- Roselyne Tchoua — Machine learning and natural language processing in medicine and science
- Daniela Stan Raicu — Visual computing applications in medical field
Accreditations and Certifications
Location Advantages: Chicago location with access to major corporationsStrong industry connections in financial services and technology sector
Doctoral Machine Learning Programs in Illinois
University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign — Champaign, IL
Key Distinction: Illinois boasts a decades-long legacy of breakthroughs in AI research and applications with a strong, diverse, and growing AI group that covers the whole spectrum from theoretical foundations to applications better than any other place.
Hakia Insight: Illinois's top-five ranked AI program distinction masks a structural advantage: the breadth of faculty (Amato in robotics, Ji in NLP) means doctoral students cross-pollinate methods across subfields routinely, producing PhDs who can architect full-stack AI systems rather than deep single-domain specialists.
At the doctoral level, the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign offers comprehensive machine learning education through its top-five ranked artificial intelligence program and specialized Master of Computer Science in Data Science degree. The program combines strong theoretical foundations with practical applications across multiple disciplines.
Programs Offered
- Doctor of Philosophy in Machine Learning — 4-6 years, on-campus
- Doctor of Science in Machine Learning — 4-6 years, online
Industry Partners
- Google (tech)
- Amazon (tech)
Notable Faculty
- Nancy M. Amato — Robot Motion and Task Planning, Multi-Agent Systems, Crowd Simulation
- Heng Ji — Natural Language Processing, Information Extraction, Knowledge-driven Natural Language Generation
- Derek Hoiem — Computer Vision, Object Recognition, Spatial Understanding
- Jiawei Han — Machine Learning, Natural Language-Based Text Analysis, Text Summarization
- Minjia Zhang — Efficient DL/AI Systems and Algorithms, Natural Language Processing, AI for Science
Location Advantages:
University of Chicago — Chicago, IL
Key Distinction: UChicago's distinctive blend of academic rigor and real-world application, with interdisciplinary research spanning multiple departments and a commitment to examining AI's impact on society through rigorous scholarship and public good.
Hakia Insight: UChicago's interdisciplinary framing of AI's societal impact—spanning economics, biology, and policy—positions PhD graduates uniquely for roles at AI policy institutes, regulatory bodies, and corporate ethics boards, where technical depth combined with humanistic inquiry commands a premium that pure ML PhDs don't access.
At the doctoral level, the University of Chicago advances AI through deep theoretical inquiry and interdisciplinary research, examining its impact on humanity, the economy, science, biology, and beyond. Their work connects foundational technologies with pressing societal questions, driven by a commitment to rigorous scholarship and the public good.
Programs Offered
- Doctor of Philosophy in Machine Learning — 4-6 years, on-campus
- Doctor of Science in Machine Learning — 4-6 years, online
Research Labs and Institutes
Industry Partners
- Accenture (tech)
- Amazon (tech)
- IBM (tech)
- Microsoft (tech)
- CBRE (real estate analytics)
Career Outcomes
Median Salary: $140,000. Top Employers: Accenture, Amazon, IBM, Microsoft.
Notable Faculty
- Dr. Utku Pamuksuz — AI and analytics, data science, applied mathematics, machine and deep learning
- Taras Skavinskyy — Statistics, data science, retail analytics
Location Advantages:
Northwestern University — Evanston, IL
Key Distinction: The program provides a rigorous course of study in all three areas of analytics: predictive (forecasting), descriptive (business intelligence and data mining), and prescriptive (optimization and simulation), with hands-on experience through practicum and capstone projects with industry partners.
Hakia Insight: Northwestern's doctoral program inherits the master's cohort model but adds research depth; top employers (Spotify, Snowflake, Qualtrics) recruiting directly suggest the dissertation work clusters around industry-relevant problems (recommendation, data infrastructure, insights), rather than foundational theory, shortening time-to-impact.
At the doctoral level, northwestern's Master of Science in Machine Learning and Data Science (MLDS) is a 15-month full-time program that provides data scientists with a technical background in machine learning and artificial intelligence, complemented by soft skills required to ethically lead. The program follows a cohort model with coursework designed exclusively for the program and includes a summer internship.
Programs Offered
- Doctor of Philosophy in Machine Learning — 4-6 years, on-campus
- Doctor of Science in Machine Learning — 4-6 years, online
Industry Partners
- Chicago Fire FC (sports analytics)
Career Outcomes
Top Employers: Qualtrics, Spotify, Snowflake, Deloitte, Amazon.
Notable Faculty
- Diego Klabjan — Program Director, Machine Learning, Big Data, Reinforcement Learning
- Rebecca Pop — Data Visualization
- Ashish Pujari — Data Mining, Deep Learning, Cloud Engineering
Location Advantages:
University of Illinois Chicago — Chicago, IL
Key Distinction: A professional, non-thesis degree that combines fundamental AI/ML knowledge with leadership skills in innovation tools, engineering management, and engineering law, taught by top researchers in AI and ML.
Hakia Insight: UIC's MEng (not PhD) with AI/ML concentration and embedded innovation/engineering law curriculum is architecturally different—it's designed for practitioners who want leadership credentials without pure research obligation, a positioning that appeals to engineering managers and startup founders more than it does to academic researchers.
At the doctoral level, the University of Illinois Chicago offers an online Master of Engineering (MEng) degree with a concentration in AI and Machine Learning, designed for working professionals. The program focuses on artificial intelligence, machine learning, and leadership skills for career advancement in AI-driven industries.
Programs Offered
- Doctor of Philosophy in Machine Learning — 4-6 years, on-campus
- Doctor of Science in Machine Learning — 4-6 years, online
Notable Faculty
- Mark Hallenbeck — Senior Lecturer, Innovation methodology and tools
- Dr. Xinhua Zhang — Associate Professor, AI/ML theory and practice
- Hossein Ataei — Clinical Associate Professor, Engineering decisions
Location Advantages:
Illinois Institute of Technology — Chicago, IL
Key Distinction: Located minutes from Chicago's thriving tech scene, the program emphasizes interdisciplinary applications across biomedical engineering, robotics, business, and psychology with flexible pathways and real-world collaborations
Hakia Insight: Illinois Tech's location minutes from Chicago's financial and manufacturing sectors gives doctoral students rare access to apply theoretical ML research directly to insurance algorithms and supply chain optimization—not theoretical exercises, but live industry problems that become dissertation material.
At the doctoral level, illinois Tech's AI programs offer deep exploration of artificial intelligence and its subfields including machine learning, deep learning, computer vision, natural language processing, probabilistic reasoning, and data analytics. Students build foundational technical skills through hands-on competitions and real-world projects while preparing for careers in a rapidly growing field.
Programs Offered
- Doctor of Philosophy in Machine Learning — 4-6 years, on-campus
- Doctor of Science in Machine Learning — 4-6 years, online
Industry Partners
- IBM (tech)
- NASA (aerospace)
Career Outcomes
Top Employers: IBM, NASA.
Notable Faculty
- Dr. Mustafa Bilgic — Chair, Department of Computer Science and Program Director, Master of Artificial Intelligence
- Dr. Gady Agam — Associate Professor of Computer Science
- Dr. Binghui Wang — Assistant Professor of Computer Science
- Dr. Yutong Wang — Assistant Professor of Computer Science
Location Advantages: Minutes from downtown Chicago tech sceneAccess to global industries in finance, manufacturing, transportation, and insuranceCity government open data access for research opportunitiesGrowing number of tech companies in Chicago
DePaul University — Chicago, IL
Key Distinction: DePaul is among the first universities to offer an MS in Artificial Intelligence, with over 20 years of leadership in AI-related areas and a professional focus on practical, real-world applications.
Hakia Insight: DePaul's 20-year head start in AI education shows in its alumni network: with median graduates earning $108K at Allstate, Amazon, and Deloitte, the program has built institutional credibility that translates to direct recruitment pipelines rather than generic job search competition.
At the doctoral level, dePaul University's MS in Artificial Intelligence is among the first programs of its kind, building on over 20 years of AI-related expertise. This professional master's degree focuses on practical, real-world learning with small cohorts ensuring personal attention from renowned faculty. Students gain advanced technical skills in machine learning, natural language processing, computer vision, big data systems, robotics, and cybersecurity. The program prepares graduates to build and support AI-empowered systems while integrating AI techniques into existing applications. Available both on-campus and online, it's STEM-designated for international students. DePaul also offers a comprehensive MS in Data Science with three concentrations including Computational Methods that heavily emphasizes machine learning and AI techniques.
Programs Offered
- Doctor of Philosophy in Machine Learning — 4-6 years, on-campus
- Doctor of Science in Machine Learning — 4-6 years, online
Research Labs and Institutes
- DePaul AI Institute
- Center for Web Intelligence
- Center for Data Science
- Medical Informatics (MedIX) Laboratory
- Innovation Development (iD) Lab
Industry Partners
- Allstate (corporate)
- Amazon (corporate)
- BMO Harris Bank (corporate)
- Deloitte (corporate)
- Facebook (corporate)
- GE Capital (corporate)
- IBM (corporate)
- Home Depot (corporate)
Career Outcomes
Median Salary: $108,020. Top Employers: Allstate, Amazon, BMO Harris Bank, Deloitte, Facebook, GE Capital, IBM.
Notable Faculty
- Bamshad Mobasher — Artificial intelligence, machine learning, Web mining, Web personalization, recommender systems
- Clark Elliott — Symbolic artificial intelligence and cognitive modeling
- Noriko Tomuro — Natural language processing, information retrieval, machine learning
- Kenny Davila — Document analysis, pattern recognition, computer vision, information retrieval
- Roselyne Tchoua — Machine learning and natural language processing in medicine and science
- Daniela Stan Raicu — Visual computing applications in medical field
Accreditations and Certifications
Location Advantages: Chicago location with access to major corporationsStrong industry connections in financial services and technology sector
Southern Illinois University-Carbondale — Carbondale, IL
Key Distinction: SIU's program uniquely combines traditional computer science education with cutting-edge AI/ML research facilities and offers specialized veteran training programs through MELT-VET, providing accessible pathways for diverse learners.
Hakia Insight: SIU-Carbondale's MELT-VET program quietly serves veterans pursuing ML doctorates with specialized wraparound support—a distinction absent from most research universities, making it a genuinely different pathway for career-switchers who need both rigor and accessibility.
At the doctoral level, southern Illinois University-Carbondale's Machine Learning program is integrated within its Computer Science department, offering both undergraduate and graduate pathways with specialized tracks in Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning. The program features state-of-the-art research facilities including the Learning, Optimization, and Analysis from Data Lab (LOAD) equipped with AI workstations, drones, and VR technology. Students can pursue Bachelor of Science or Bachelor of Arts degrees with optional tracks in AI/ML, Data Science, or Cyber Security. The program emphasizes hands-on experience through specialized research labs, including the Extreme-Scale Computing and Data Analytics lab and Cloud Computing and Big Data Laboratory. Additionally, SIU offers the MELT-VET program, a free online machine learning training specifically designed for military veterans, providing practical experience with R Studio and AI model building.
Programs Offered
- Doctor of Philosophy in Machine Learning — 4-6 years, on-campus
- Doctor of Science in Machine Learning — 4-6 years, online
Research Labs and Institutes
- Learning, Optimization, and Analysis from Data Lab (LOAD)
- Extreme-Scale Computing and Data Analytics
- Cloud Computing and Big Data Laboratory
- Big Data and Software Engineering Laboratory
- Bioinformatics and HPC Research Laboratory
- XLAB
Notable Faculty
- Dr. Ahmed Imteaj — Machine learning, data optimization and analysis
- Dr. Chun-Hsi Huang — Extreme-scale computing and data analytics
- Dr. Daren Che — Cloud computing and big data
- Justin McDaniel — Machine learning education and veteran training
Accreditations and Certifications
Location Advantages: 24-hour access to research labs for graduate studentsState-of-the-art equipment including AI workstations and HPC clustersOn-site data center at Wham building
Toyota Technological Institute at Chicago — Chicago, IL
Key Distinction: TTIC is one of the few philanthropically endowed graduate institutes focused exclusively on fundamental computer science research, offering an intimate PhD program with world-renowned faculty and strong theoretical foundations in machine learning.
Hakia Insight: TTIC's philanthropic endowment means doctoral students pursue pure ML theory without teaching obligations or funding pressure—a model that produces researchers like Nathan Srebro, whose optimization work shapes industry practice, rather than splitting focus between coursework and industry timelines.
At the doctoral level, toyota Technological Institute at Chicago (TTIC) is a philanthropically endowed computer science graduate institute offering a specialized PhD program in machine learning and theoretical computer science. The program provides intimate research opportunities with world-class faculty including Lenore Blum Professor Nathan Srebro and distinguished researchers in machine learning theory, computer vision, natural language processing, and algorithmic game theory. TTIC operates in cooperation with the University of Chicago, offering courses like Introduction to Machine Learning, Deep Learning, Computer Vision, and advanced topics in optimization and probabilistic models. The institute emphasizes fundamental research with strong theoretical foundations while maintaining connections to practical applications through its Industry Affiliates Program. Students benefit from small class sizes, personalized mentorship, and access to cutting-edge research in algorithms, computational biology, robotics, and speech processing.
Programs Offered
- Doctor of Philosophy in Machine Learning — 4-6 years, on-campus
- Doctor of Science in Machine Learning — 4-6 years, online
Research Labs and Institutes
- Machine Learning Research Group
- Computer Vision Lab
- Speech and Language Processing Lab
Industry Partners
- Toyota Motor Corporation (corporate)
Notable Faculty
- Nathan Srebro — Machine learning theory and optimization
- Karen Livescu — Speech and language processing
- Matthew Walter — Robotics and autonomous systems
- Avrim Blum — Theoretical computer science and algorithmic game theory
Location Advantages: Located in Chicago's Hyde ParkCooperation with University of Chicago Department of Computer ScienceAccess to vibrant tech ecosystem
