Given that AI is becoming increasingly and intricately involved in virtually every aspect of our daily lives, getting a master’s in artificial intelligence or machine learning can be beneficial in many ways. In fact, experts assert that there will be 58 million new jobs in the artificial intelligence sector as soon as 2022. This means that getting an artificial intelligence master’s will afford you with a wide variety of opportunities, while also allowing you to be highly useful to society at large. An artificial intelligence online masters will also allow you to become a specialist who creates much-needed intelligent machines that stand to totally improve our overall quality of life. Entering an artificial intelligence master’s program allows you to learn the foundational skills, methods, and concepts of AI.
An online master’s in machine learning also provides students with the core knowledge needed to succeed in the AI field. It will also allow you to that are associated with using techniques with AI uncertainty and reasoning. Additionally, this degree also allows you to analyze systems to more effectively monitor and control development projects. An online master’s in machine learning will make it possible for you to pursue positions in artificial intelligence, programming, software development, and machine learning.
Featured Programs
How We Ranked the Best Masters Programs for Artificial Intelligence
To rank the best master’s in machine learning, AI, and robotics, Best Master’s Programs editors sought out a wide variety of institutions and specializations to find the most innovative, influential, and intensive programs across the US. Programs are ranked by:
- Alumni Salary (College Scorecard data)
- Student Satisfaction (Niche data)
- Tuition Cost (IPEDS data)
We have included both online and campus-based programs.
1. Northeastern University
Northeastern University’s on campus MS in Artificial Intelligence and MS in Robotics programs are two of the best masters programs for artificial intelligence available to future tech experts today. Both of these programs set students up to be successful in the fast-growing AI and robotics fields by providing them with access to faculty who are creating groundbreaking tech research. Students participate in five core courses: machine learning, intelligent interaction, foundations of artificial intelligence, programming design paradigms, and algorithms.
Students who enroll in graduate education at Northeastern get a complex, multidisciplinary approach to their studies, which allows them to be successful in any field they choose. As graduates of the Khoury College of Computer Science at Northeastern, graduates gain access to a unique, well-rounded network of alumni. Northeastern is known for its commitment to creating well-rounded graduates who positively affect social change, no matter what their chosen field.
Degree: MS in Artificial Intelligence or MS in Robotics
Format: Campus
2. Columbia University
Columbia University’s MS in Computer Science – Machine Learning degree trains students to understand the unique ways that machines can be taught how to interact with humans and with one another. While students do have several required courses in the machine learning program, they also have many elective options. This allows students to create a unique program tailored to their interests and career goals, making it one of the best masters in machine learning programs available to tech-minded graduate students today.
Machine learning is a relatively new field, and Columbia has long been at the forefront of this unique tech sector. As an Ivy League school, Columbia provides students with the opportunity to work with others who are at the top of their class and gives access to world-class faculty. Columbia graduates are well prepared to take on many different sectors, including finance, intelligence, fraud detection, and more. Columbia’s prime location in the heart of New York City allows students to immersive themselves in unique cultural, artistic, and tech experiences.
Degree: MS in Computer Science – Machine Learning
Format: Campus
3. University of Southern California
University of Southern California’s MS in Computer Science – Artificial Intelligence program is one of the best masters programs for artificial intelligence on the west coast. At USC, students go through rigorous training to form them into experts in AI. This is not a surface level program – students use hands-on, practical learning experiences to develop into AI gurus.
USC’s Viterbi School of Engineering has been ranked as one of the top ten engineering programs in the country. Graduates of Viterbi are known as brilliant, novel thinkers who come up with unique solutions to long-standing problems. Viterbi attracts fantastic students and faculty, creating a learning environment that allows the best of the best to learn from one another. USC is known for its commitment to philanthropy and believes that giving back should be paramount in all that they do.
Degree: MS in Computer Science – Artificial Intelligence
Format: Campus
4. Worcester Polytechnic Institute
Worcester Polytechnic Institute’s MS in Robotics Engineering is an online program that’s known as one of the best masters in robotics degree options. Classes are taught by faculty members who are leading the charge in new technologies in the fields of computer vision, robotics, artificial intelligence, nanotechnology, and more. This online program is the perfect fit for busy professionals who want to stay on top of their continuing education while also working to advance their careers.
The Robotics Engineering program at WPI is the first of it’s kind in the country. As of 2018, WPI is offering a specialization option in automatic vehicles. This is one of the many ways WPI is staying on top of the latest changes in automated technology. As of 2020, this program is available to qualified students who have already been accepted to the MS in Robotics Engineering program. WPI is committed to helping students get the education they need to succeed and offers generous financial aid packages to qualified applicants.
Degree: MS in Robotics Engineering
Format: Online
5. University of Georgia
The University of Georgia’s MS in Artificial Intelligence is an on campus program that’s regarded by many to be one of the best masters programs for artificial intelligence. Students have several specialty options within the program, including automated reasoning, logic programming, natural language processing, robotic systems, and more. While several core courses are required, students will work to become deeply acquainted with the latest research in their chosen specialty.
Students at the University of Georgia are surrounded by world-class faculty, making the program both a valuable learning and networking experience. As students learn from their professors, they’re also developing high-level working relationships with classmates. The program’s focus on collaboration and learning from one another provides a rigorous educational experience. The University of Georgia’s Artificial Intelligence Laboratories provides world-class research opportunities to graduate students.
Degree: MS in Artificial Intelligence
Format: Campus
6. Illinois Tech
Illinois Tech’s MAS in Artificial Intelligence is an on campus program widely regarded as one of the best masters programs for artificial intelligence. When students enroll, they get to experience an education from a university that has its finger on the pulse of the latest trends in the tech industry. Graduates of Illinois Tech are ready to be leaders in the artificial intelligence industry.
Designed by a committee of artificial intelligence experts, the MAS in AI program at Illinois Tech is widely regarded as a prestigious example of a rigorous AI education. Minutes from metropolitan Chicago, Illinois Tech provides students with opportunities for rich experiences in an urban setting. From video game design to research, students at Illinois Tech can connect with experts in the Chicago area who can help them work toward realizing their career goals. Illinois Tech views its home city of Chicago as a living lab and works to study and understand how the city impacts culture.
Degree: MAS in Artificial Intelligence
Format: Campus
7. Duke University
On of the best masters in machine learning programs, Duke University’s Data Analytics and Machine Learning Master’s programs allow students to become leaders in the analytics and machine learning fields. Duke’s master’s programs are customizable and can be tailored to meet the individual learning needs of each student. Whether students are interested in working strictly in research or want to go into business management in the tech sector, a master’s at Duke will leave them well prepared.
With faculty ranked #10 for research productivity in the United States, Duke University has a reputation for producing leaders in the tech field. The school prides itself on a welcoming, inclusive community. Many students who enroll in the Data Analytics and Machine Learning Master’s programs are interested in eventually starting their own businesses. Duke is highly supportive of the entrepreneurial spirit and gives graduates all the tools they need to succeed in becoming their own boss. Duke’s home city, Durham, has a low cost of living and is ranked as one of the best places to live in the United States.
Degree: Data Analytics and Machine Learning
Format: Campus
8. New York University
Created in 2015, New York University’s MS in Mechatronics and Robotics program provides students with an innovative education known as one of the best masters in robotics programs. Mechatronics is a fairly new field and combines the disciplines of control theory, computer science, electronics, and mechanical engineering to solve complex problems in the technology field. While some core courses are required, students have the opportunity to develop their own curriculum to hone in on their individual interests.
New York University prides itself on providing students with collaborative, active learning programs. This means that students have the opportunity to learn from and network with one another throughout their graduate education. NYU works to provide graduate students with an education that allows them to become innovators in their fields. Located in Manhattan, New York University affords graduate students with an unmatched cultural and innovation scene.
Degree: MS in Mechatronics and Robotics
Format: Campus
9. Boston University
Boston University’s MS in Artificial Intelligence is one of the best masters programs for artificial intelligence on the east coast. In this program, students get hands-on experience solving complicated AI issues using creative thinking, coding skills, and algorithmic design. Students work to create AI systems that are above and beyond what’s currently available in the tech field. When students graduate from BU with their AI degree, employers know that they can be trusted to find innovative solutions to tough AI issues.
This program works to prepare students to either become AI engineers or to pursue their Ph.D. in technology. This focused course of study allows students to learn from the best instructors in the field. BU emphasizes real-world experience and puts a heavy focus on providing students with problems they’ll need to solve on the job or while earning their doctorate. BU is currently rated the #46 university in the world, making a degree from the school a standout on any job application.
Degree: MS in Artificial Intelligence
Format: Campus
10. Oregon State University
Oregon State University’s MS in Robotics is one of the best masters in robotics available to students pursuing graduate education. OSU offers an interdisciplinary robotics program, helping students prepare for success in any area they choose to work in after graduation. Robotics are quickly infiltrating most industries in the U.S., and a degree in robotics makes graduates a valuable asset to any organization.
At Oregon State University, students are encouraged to develop close relationships with their instructors. OSU understands the importance of an individualized program, and students can tailor their learning experience to guide them toward their career goals. Students may choose to be heavily involved in research, allowing them to create the experience they need to specialize in any aspect of robotics. Oregon State University puts a heavy emphasis on philanthropy, and students are offered many opportunities to give back to the local community.
Degree: MS in Robotics
Format: Campus
11. Carnegie Mellon University
Carnegie Mellon University’s MS in Artificial Intelligence and MS in Machine Learning are regarded respectively as one of the best masters programs for artificial intelligence and the best masters in machine learning available to students in the tech sector today. Carnegie Mellon believes in educating students on a deep level, helping them to understand the why behind AI and ML.
Students have the opportunity to learn both in and out of the classroom, as the school provides students with valuable research opportunities. Located in the busy downtown area of Pittsburgh, students at CMU have the opportunity to collaborate with nearby tech partners to make the most of their learning experience. CMU is currently ranked as the 25th best university in the United States.
Degree: MS in Artificial Intelligence or MS in Machine Learning
Format: Campus
12. Stevens Institute of Technology
Stevens Institute of Technology’s MS in Machine Learning degree is known as one of the best masters in machine learning programs, and the school’s reputation speaks for itself. Known as a premier research institution, Stevens allows it’s graduate students to explore new, cutting edge fields of machine learning, including cryptography, visual computing, secure systems, and more.
Students at Stevens have the opportunity to work with instructors who are changing the game in the machine learning field. The school has been awarded grants for research from the Department of Homeland Security, National Science Foundation (NSF), the National Institutes of Health (NIH), the Office of Naval Research (ONR), and the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA). Located across the river from New York City, Stevens Institute of Technology provides students with unmatched cultural opportunities while enjoying the small-town setting of Hoboken.
Degree: MS in Machine Learning
Format: Campus
Featured Programs
13. CSU Global
CSU Global’s online MS in Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning provides students with the unique opportunity to work through their master’s degree at their own pace while continuing to work toward advancing their career. Regarded as one of the best masters in machine learning and artificial intelligence, this degree program allows students to study and develop unique tech solutions to problems in the business world. Students take several core classes and make up the rest of the degree with specialization options.
At CSU Global, students are expected to develop close relationships with instructors, allowing them to personalize their education and learn from leaders in the field. CSU Global believes that earning a graduate education should do more for increasing your paycheck than it should for causing you financial stress. Financial aid packages are generous. CSU Global has partnered with over 3,000 corporations to offer tuition discounts to employees.
Degree: MS in Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning
Format: Online
14. University of Cincinnati
University of Cincinnati’s MEng in Artificial Intelligence offers students one of the best masters programs for artificial intelligence in the midwest. At the University of Cincinnati, instructors believe that artificial intelligence will soon be commonplace across many disciplines. The program provides students with an interdisciplinary education that sets them up for success in several industries.
Creative problem solving, engineering, psychology, and technical skills come together to form the master’s in engineering program at the University of Cincinnati. Students have several options to create a personalized learning experience and can tailor their education to help them meet future career goals. Graduates of the program emerge ready to take on new, complex tech problems and find innovative solutions. As the second-largest university in Ohio, the University of Cincinnati boasts a robust and diverse student population.
Degree: MEng in Artificial Intelligence
Format: Campus
15. University at Buffalo
The University at Buffalo’s MS in Engineering Science – Artificial Intelligence is a part of the school’s Artificial Intelligence Institute. Known as one of the best masters programs for artificial intelligence, the program works to train students on the intricacies of artificial intelligence and machine learning. Students learn how to train machines to work intuitively with their human counterparts.
This program is brand new – acceptance of the first class will occur in Spring 2020. Students get the benefit of a program that has been carefully designed to meet the work force’s technology needs. As the program progresses, student input will be valued to help make the program even more valuable to the next incoming class. Students who take part in this program now have the honor of being a part of the school’s inaugural class, making a mark on the University at Buffalo’s history. The University at Buffalo was selected as the #1 public university in New York state by U.S. News and World Report.
Degree: MS in Engineering Science – Artificial Intelligence
Format: Campus
16. University of Pittsburgh
The University of Pittsburgh’s MS in Intelligent Systems is one of the best masters in machine learning programs on the east coast. This program offers a customized curriculum tailored to the needs of each student, with a heavy focus on implementing findings from the latest research in machine learning. Students explore several related disciplines, including information science, cognitive psychology, law, education, computer science, biological informatics, and more.
Highly dedicated faculty set this program apart from the rest. Instructors work closely with students to help them discover their passions within intelligent systems. Instructors are leaders in their fields, and help students to become leaders as well. The collaborative atmosphere within the program allow students to network and learn not only from each other but from the rich history of their instructors’ careers as well. Located in Pittsburgh’s Oakland neighborhood, the University of Pittsburgh offers a quiet, relaxed setting with all the fun and excitement of downtown just three miles away.
Degree: MS in Intelligent Systems
Format: Campus
17. Arizona State University
Arizona State University’s on campus MS in Robotics and Autonomous Systems program is one of the best masters in robotics programs in the southwest. The program focuses on human-machine interaction, machine learning, control systems, and other aspects of robotics to allow students to collaboratively work to become the next wave of experts in the robotics industry.
Students at Arizona State have access to more than 25 state of the art labs, giving them the research experience they need to emerge as leaders in the field. Arizona State puts a large emphasis on teamwork and promotes students working together in a way that allows them to learn from one another as much as they learn from their instructors. Arizona State University is currently ranked as the #1 university for innovation in the United States.
Degree: MS in Robotics and Autonomous Systems
Format: Campus
18. Johns Hopkins University
Johns Hopkins University’s MSE in Robotics program is one of the best masters in robotics available to students in the tech industry today. While the skills learned in this program can be applied to any industry, many of the graduates of the MSE in Robotics program go on to work in medical robotics technology. Students receive a multi-disciplinary education that leaves them well-suited to become leaders in the industry of their choice. Students choose one of six specialties and have the option of a coursework option or a coursework and master’s essay hybrid option.
Johns Hopkins is synonymous with research, and employers know that graduates are coming from one of the best schools in the country. At Johns Hopkins, students have the opportunity to work with leaders in the robotics field and graduate with myriad connections to professionals who are leading the charge in the medical robotics industry. Johns Hopkins University is currently rated as the #10 university in the United States.
Degree: MSE in Robotics
Format: Campus
19. Michigan Technological University
Michigan Technological University’s MS in Mechatronics program is one of the best masters programs for artificial intelligence. Students in this program are knowledgable about several tech subsets, including artificial intelligence, technical skills, and advanced technical design skills. Collaboration is highly encouraged, and students develop close relationships with both classmates and instructors.
Graduates of Michigan Technological University’s MS in Mechatronics program often go on to work in aerospace and military technology, consumer products industries, the automotive industry, and other technologically advanced industries. MTU takes a multi-disciplinary approach, teaching students how to apply their tech and engineering skills to a wide range of industries. Michigan Technological University is known for providing an educational quality that is higher than average at a cost that is lower than average.
Degree: MS in Mechatronics
Format: Campus
20. University of Rochester
Offered on a full or part-time basis, the University of Rochester’s MS in Computer Science – Artificial Intelligence & Machine Learning is the perfect fit for a busy professional who wants to get their master’s degree while continuing to advance in their career. This flexible program is known as one of the best masters programs for artificial intelligence. Students have the option to customize their program with electives, allowing them to create the perfect fit for their career goals.
At the University of Rochester, students interact with esteemed faculty who are making waves in the tech research world. Students have the option to earn six of their total program credits from research with a faculty member. This can be a perfect opportunity for a student to delve into their specialty area under the direction of an expert. With a 10:1 student to faculty ration, the University of Rochester is known for providing students with one on one attention.
Degree: MS in Computer Science – Artificial Intelligence & Machine Learning
Format: Campus
21. Georgia Tech
Georgia Tech’s on campus MS in Computer Science – Computational Perception, Machine Learning, and other AI programs are regarded as some of the best masters in machine learning programs on the east coast. Students can select one of eleven specializations, making it easy to customize a program to individual interests.
After students choose a specialty, they become immersed with others in the same specialty, allowing them to network and get to know other professionals who share the same passion. Networking opportunities and learning from others with different experiences are two of the many factors that make the MS in Computer Science program at Georgia Tech a standout. Located in the heart of Atlanta, Georgia Tech students get to enjoy unique cultural experiences while also having access to top of the line tech companies.
Degree: MS in Computer Science – Computational Perception, Machine Learning, others
Format: Campus
22. Stanford University
Stanford University is known for excellence, and Stanford’s MS in Computer Science: Artificial Intelligence program is no exception. Known as one of the best masters programs for artificial intelligence, students in the degree program get to choose from one of nine specialties. The program is highly customizable and allows students to do the work that makes sense for their career goals. As students work through the program, they are free to switch specializations as they see fit.
Two specializations can be done completely online, while the others require at least some visits to campus. Stanford is dedicated to providing students with flexible learning opportunities while still providing a world-class education. Stanford is dedicated to helping all students afford their education – more than 50% of the students at the school receive financial aid.
Degree: MS in Computer Science: Artificial Intelligence
Format: Campus
23. Drexel University
Drexel University’s MS in Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning is one of the best masters in machine learning programs available today. Students in this program graduate prepared for both the workforce and continued higher education. Courses cover artificial intelligence and machine learning, data science, mathematics and algorithms, and more.
Classes for the MS in Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning are available full time, part-time, on campus, and online. Drexel works to make their MS in Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning program available to all students, regardless of their location or having limited time available. With a faculty-student ratio of 11:1, students at Drexel get the individualized attention they need.
Degree: MS in Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning
Format: Campus
24. Northwestern University
Northwestern University’s on campus MS in Artificial Intelligence program is one of the best masters programs for artificial intelligence. Students get to participate in a semester-long personal research project, allowing them to create a highly customizable experience that can pay off in dividends in the workplace.
Students in this program go through their classes in a cohort of 40 people, allowing them to get to know one another and collaborate throughout their entire graduate school experience. Students at Northwestern get to enjoy a beautiful, picturesque campus setting in metropolitan Chicago.
Degree: MS in Artificial Intelligence
Format: Campus
25. University of Pennsylvania
The University of Pennsylvania’s MSE in Robotics program is widely regarded as one of the best masters in robotics programs in the world. Consisting of ten core courses and an optional thesis project, the MSE in robotics program allows for a customizable learning experience that is highly valued in both the workplace and continued higher education.
The MSE in Robotics program is housed at the GRASP lab, one of the leading robotics research facilities in the world. Students at UPenn get to not only participate in lab research – but they also get to learn from esteemed faculty around the world who come to do research at GRASP. Located in University City in Philadelphia, UPenn’s gorgeous campus is situated just outside of downtown Philly, providing students with endless opportunities for networking and cultural experiences.
Degree: MSE in Robotics
Format: Campus
Why Should I Get an AI/Machine Learning Master’s Online?
As with many other types of online degrees, there is an array of benefits of an AI master’s degree online. An online master’s in artificial intelligence online provides you with most if not all of the courses you will attend by going to a physical classroom. This includes courses such as machine learning, neural networks, and deep learning, deep learning for business, and more.
Additionally, it allows you to save money when compared to attend physical classes. While some online courses are not necessarily less expensive (though most are), the associated costs always are. For instance, there are no communication costs. Also, many of the materials, such as textbooks and other course materials, are often free of charge or at a very minimal cost. Moreover, many online schools even accept credits from free massive online courses (MOOC), which can allow you to cut even more costs from your overall degree.
Moreover, an online artificial intelligence master’s will also allow you to learn from the comfort of your very own home and at your own pace. An online master’s in machine learning will also make it possible for you to have greater interaction with the professor and other students. This is because you can read, absorb the information, and ask your questions/make your comments on your own time.
An artificial intelligence online master’s will make it possible to give your 100% effort and attention to the course and coursework, each and every day. A master’s in artificial intelligence online is a great idea for those who may have busy or irregular schedules, those who have social anxiety issues or those who simply have issues with learning in a typical classroom setting.
How Much Can I Make with a Master’s in Artificial Intelligence or Machine Learning?
With regard to how much can be made from machine learning salaries, it depends on the type of job you are pursuing. For instance, if you want a job in something like data analytics, you would make around $59,614 annually. Data analysts simply need to possess a concrete understanding of the data itself. Data analysts have a great job outlook, and there are approximately 700,000 job-related openings in this sector, with the potential to continue to grow over time.
On another note, user experience jobs, or UX roles involve working with products (which include those that deal with AI) to ensure they are easier to use by consumers, are jobs that better understand how humans interact with products.
Software engineering jobs have an average salary of $84,336. Software engineers are an intricate part of the general design and development process of digital programs and/or systems. The software engineer has predicted a 21% growth rate, which is much faster than average, and means that there should be an addition of 284,100 jobs by 2028. This sector is imperative because it allows employees to develop the technical functionality of the products, which uses machines to complete a wide variety of tasks.
Another example of machine learning salaries is computer science and artificial intelligence research, which can make anywhere from $83,490 and up to $1,000,000 annually. These jobs are the epitome of a master’s in artificial intelligence salary as it allows for great growth potential. These positions require a wide variety of skills and responsibilities, depending on which sector you choose to work in. Lastly, an average machine learning engineer salary is approximately $169,930. These positions involve building software that supports ML applications.
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