Online master’s degrees in artificial intelligence provide flexible, accredited pathways for career changers and tech professionals that are seeking advanced AI expertise.
In this guide, you’ll find accredited online and hybrid AI master’s programs, what admissions committees look for, how much these degrees typically cost, and ways to align capstones and electives with high-impact roles. We’ll also break down online vs in-person learning, compare degrees (MS, MEng, MPS), and outline common AI courses so you can pick a program that fits your goals.
Key Takeaways
- Online and hybrid AI master’s programs vary by delivery (asynchronous, live online, low-residency); always verify the exact format on each school’s site.
- Admissions often expect math, programming, and data structures fundamentals; many schools offer bridge courses or stackable certificates for catch-up.
- Program fit comes from curriculum depth, capstone or thesis options, computer access, and career services, not the degree title alone.
- Costs extend beyond tuition to fees, software, proctoring, and potential cloud/GPU usage; compare total program cost across finalists.
- Bootcamps provide a faster skills ramp, while master’s degrees offer broader theory, research exposure, and access to roles that favor graduate credentials.
- Strong portfolios, industry projects, and alumni networks from online programs help translate coursework into competitive AI roles.
Where Can I Get an Artificial Intelligence Master’s Degree Online?
You can earn an online artificial intelligence master’s degree at accredited universities that deliver programs fully online, hybrid, or low-residency.
“Online” can mean:
- 100% online (asynchronous and/or live online sessions),
- Hybrid (mostly online with limited campus intensives), or
- Low-residency (periodic short campus visits).
Always verify the program’s delivery language (“Format,” “Delivery,” “Online Campus”) on the official program page. Out-of-state students should also check any state authorization disclosures or SARA participation notes posted by the university.
Some of the best schools where you can get an artificial intelligence master’s degree online are Drexel University, Syracuse University, Penn State University, and the University of Texas at San Antonio.
What Schools Offer the Best Artificial Intelligence Master’s Degrees?
The best online AI master’s programs come from accredited universities with strong curricula, flexible formats, and career-focused outcomes.
On Career Karma, “best” reflects factors readers care about, like regional accreditation, breadth of AI coursework, flexibility, affordability, and evidence of student support/outcomes, which are summarized for quick comparison. Add search variants for clarity: online AI master’s programs; master’s in AI online; MS in AI online.
- Drexel University
- Syracuse University
- The University of Texas at San Antonio
- Penn State University
- Johns Hopkins University
What Are the Admission Requirements for an Online Artificial Intelligence Master’s Degree?
Admissions to online AI master’s degrees generally require transcripts, a bachelor’s degree, and supporting materials like resumes or recommendations.
Common expectations include:
- Math: linear algebra, calculus, probability/statistics.
- CS: data structures/algorithms, operating systems (varies).
- Programming: Python (often), plus Java/C++ exposure.
- Bridge options: some programs provide preparatory or leveling courses if your background is adjacent.
Many schools waive the GRE for experienced applicants and/or offer stackable graduate certificates that can roll into the MS, but confirm details on each program page.
The admission requirements for an online Master’s Degree in Artificial Intelligence include submitting an admission application, all undergraduate transcripts, a resume, a recommendation letter, and admission test scores.
Every school has a different admission requirement for students attending online programs and degrees, but requirements like official transcripts and admission applications are a standard prerequisite. The minimum required GPA for an online Master’s Degree in Artificial Intelligence is 3.0, but certain schools offer admission on the basis of test scores.
Online Artificial Intelligence Master’s Degree Admission Requirements
- Application for admission
- Undergraduate transcripts
- Resume
- Test scores
- Letter of recommendation
How to Get an Artificial Intelligence Master’s Degree Online
Earning an online AI master’s degree requires completing required credits, meeting GPA thresholds, and finishing a capstone or thesis.
- Choose modality (100% online vs. hybrid), pacing (full-time, part-time, accelerated), and start term.
- Map prerequisites and, if needed, complete bridge coursework before matriculation.
- Plan for team projects and any proctored exams/live sessions that may require fixed time windows.
- Align your capstone or thesis plan with target roles (e.g., applied ML engineering vs. AI for healthcare).
The best way to get a Master’s Degree in Artificial Intelligence online is by fulfilling all of the graduation requirements. Like admissions, graduation requirements also differ from school to school, but some of the more common requirements for AI online programs are listed below.
Artificial Intelligence Master’s Degree Requirements
- Completion of specified credit hours
- 3.0 GPA
- Thesis or capstone project
- Proficiency in key technical skills
Best Online Artificial Intelligence Master’s Degree Programs and Schools: Overview
This overview highlights top online AI master’s programs with accreditation, credit requirements, and delivery formats.
Use this overview to spot: accreditor, required credits, and whether the school advertises an online or hybrid format. Tuition, credit totals, and graduation rates have been refreshed with current data (as of 2025).
| School | Program | Accreditation |
|---|---|---|
| Colorado State University–Global Campus | Master of Science in Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning | Higher Learning Commission |
| Drexel University | Master of Science in Machine Learning and Artificial Intelligence | Middle States Commission on Higher Education |
| Illinois Institute of Technology | Master of Artificial Intelligence (M.A.I.) | Higher Learning Commission |
| Johns Hopkins University | Master of Science in Artificial Intelligence | Middle States Commission on Higher Education |
| Nova Southeastern University | Master of Science in Artificial Intelligence (or MSCS with AI concentration) | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges |
| Penn State University World Campus | Master of Professional Studies in Artificial Intelligence | Middle States Commission on Higher Education |
| Stevens Institute of Technology | Master of Science in Applied Artificial Intelligence | Middle States Commission on Higher Education |
| Syracuse University | Master of Science in Computer Science | Middle States Commission on Higher Education |
| The University of Texas at San Antonio | Master of Science in Artificial Intelligence | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges |
Best Schools for Artificial Intelligence: Top Online Artificial Intelligence Master’s Degree Programs
Several universities offer online AI master’s degrees with varying formats, costs, and academic emphases.
Programs can live in engineering, computing, or information schools, and emphasize different blends of theory, systems, and applications. For each school profile below, pay attention to: delivery (asynchronous vs. live online vs. hybrid), credit load and pacing, and whether a capstone, practicum, or thesis is standard. Tuition and policies have been updated to reflect 2025 figures.
Colorado State University–Global Campus | Aurora, CO
Colorado State University–Global Campus offers an online master’s in artificial intelligence and machine learning designed for working professionals seeking applied AI/ML coursework.
Founded in 2007, CSU Global is the first regionally accredited public online university.
Master of Science in Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning
The Master of Science in Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning online program emphasizes applied technical skills in AI and ML.
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
- Tuition: $3751
- Required Credits: 30 credits
- Program Length: 1–2 years, depending on pacing
- Format: 100% online
Admissions Requirements: Preferred GPA 3.0, GRE/GMAT optional, application fee, bachelor’s degree, statement of purpose, professional resume.
Drexel University | Philadelphia, PA
Drexel University offers an online MS in Machine Learning and Artificial Intelligence through its College of Computing and Informatics.
Founded in 1891, Drexel enrolls more than 11,000 students across in their undergraduate programs.2
Master of Science in Machine Learning and Artificial Intelligence
This program combines foundational knowledge with advanced topics in AI and ML, including a required capstone project.
"Career Karma entered my life when I needed it most and quickly helped me match with a bootcamp. Two months after graduating, I found my dream job that aligned with my values and goals in life!"
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- Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
- Tuition: $64,212/year2
- Required Credits: 45 credits
- Program Length: ~2 years
- Format: 100% online
- Graduation Rate: 31%2
Admissions Requirements: GPA 3.0, GRE recommended but not required, no application fee, resume, letter of recommendation, personal statement.
Illinois Institute of Technology | Chicago, IL
Illinois Tech offers the Master of Artificial Intelligence (M.A.I.), a professional degree emphasizing both theory and applications.
The school serves over 3,000 students and is ranked among the best value institutions in the Midwest.
Master of Artificial Intelligence
Students complete at least 30 credits, typically within 2 years, with options for accelerated completion.
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
- Tuition: $53,398/year3
- Required Credits: 30 credits
- Program Length: 2 years
- Format: 100% online
- Graduation Rate: 46%3
Admissions Requirements: GPA 3.0, GRE required, application fee, bachelor’s degree, TOEFL/IELTS for international students, letters of recommendation.
Johns Hopkins University | Baltimore, MD
Johns Hopkins University offers a part-time, fully online MS in Artificial Intelligence through Engineering for Professionals.
Founded in 1876, JHU serves nearly 6,000 students in their undergraduate school.
Master of Science in Artificial Intelligence
The program requires 10 courses, completed within 5 years, across areas like ML, robotics, and NLP.
- Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
- Tuition: $67,170/year4
- Required Credits: 10 courses
- Program Length: Flexible, up to 5 years
- Format: 100% online
- Graduation Rate: 87%4
Admissions Requirements: GPA 3.0, GRE optional, application fee, bachelor’s degree.
Nova Southeastern University | Fort Lauderdale, FL
Nova Southeastern University offers both a Master of Science in Artificial Intelligence and a Master of Science in Computer Science with an AI concentration.
Founded in 1964, NSU enrolls more than 7,000 students across their undergraduate programs.
Master of Science in Artificial Intelligence
This program blends theory and applied knowledge with multiple concentration options.
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
- Tuition: $40,2005
- Required Credits: 30 credits
- Program Length: 1–2 years
- Format: 100% online
- Graduation Rate: 55%5
Admissions Requirements: GPA 2.5, GRE not required, application fee, bachelor’s degree, resume.
Penn State University–World Campus | University Park, PA
Penn State World Campus offers the Master of Professional Studies in Artificial Intelligence, a fully online program with interdisciplinary AI coursework.
Founded in 1998, Penn State World Campus provides more than 175 online programs at the undergraduate and graduate levels.
Master of Professional Studies in Artificial Intelligence
The program emphasizes design and development of AI systems, with electives across data science and NLP.
- Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
- Tuition: $678/credit6
- Required Credits: 33 credits
- Program Length: 1–2 years
- Format: 100% online
Admissions Requirements: GPA 3.0, GRE/GMAT optional, application fee, bachelor’s degree, resume, statement of purpose, letters of recommendation, TOEFL if required.
Stevens Institute of Technology | Hoboken, NJ
Stevens Institute of Technology offers a Master of Science in Applied Artificial Intelligence, with coursework emphasizing machine learning, robotics, and deep learning.
Founded in 1870, Stevens serves over 4,000 students across their technology-focused undergraduate programs.
Master of Science in Applied Artificial Intelligence
- Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
- Tuition: $65,606/year7
- Required Credits: 30 credits
- Program Length: ~2 years
- Format: 100% online
- Graduation Rate: 81%7
Admissions Requirements: GPA 3.0, GRE/GMAT required for some applicants, application fee, bachelor’s degree, letters of recommendation, resume, TOEFL/IELTS if required.
Syracuse University | Syracuse, NY
Syracuse University offers an online MS in Computer Science through Engineering@Syracuse with AI-related electives.
Founded in 1870, Syracuse serves almost 16,000 students in their undergraduate programs.
Master of Science in Computer Science
The program includes 15 core credits, nine technical electives, and six general electives, with AI coursework options.
- Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
- Tuition: $68,4298
- Required Credits: 30 credits
- Program Length: ~15 months (accelerated) or longer
- Format: 100% online
- Graduation Rate: 76%8
Admissions Requirements: GPA 3.0, GRE not required, application fee, bachelor’s degree, resume, letters of recommendation, personal statement.
The University of Texas at San Antonio | San Antonio, TX
University of Texas at San Antonio offers an MS in Artificial Intelligence with concentrations in intelligent/autonomous systems, computer science, and analytics.
Founded in 1969, UTSA enrolls over 31,000 students across their undergraduate programs.
Master of Science in Artificial Intelligence
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
- Tuition: $10,600/year9
- Required Credits: 30 credits
- Program Length: ~2 years, up to 6 years max
- Format: Online availability varies by concentration
- Graduation Rate: 32%9
Admissions Requirements: GPA 3.0+, GRE not required, application fee, bachelor’s degree, personal statement, resume, letters of recommendation, TOEFL/IELTS if required.
Additional High-Value Programs
- University of Texas at Austin — Online MSAI: Fully online, 30-credit program with strong national visibility.
- Arizona State University — Online MS in Artificial Intelligence in Business: Business-oriented AI program for product and operations leaders.
- Georgia Institute of Technology — OMSCS with ML Specialization: AI-heavy, highly affordable online MSCS program with national recognition.
What Is an Online Artificial Intelligence Master’s Degree?
An online AI master’s degree is a graduate program combining computer science, mathematics, and AI applications.
These programs weave computer science, statistics, and domain electives such as robotics, NLP, and computer vision. Many schools now include responsible-AI topics (fairness, robustness, privacy) and reference risk-management resources.
An online artificial intelligence master’s degree is a (typically) two-year advanced learning program focused on artificial intelligence and machine learning. Artificial intelligence online degrees enable students to use computer science, advanced mathematics, and algorithms to innovate new technology, including robots that are able to complete tasks usually requiring natural intelligence.
Students learn advanced coding and enhance their basic technology and software development knowledge. The degree program also aids in the development of strong mathematics skills, broad analytical knowledge, and clear perspectives on engineering.
Online vs In-Person Artificial Intelligence Degrees
Online and in-person AI master’s degrees offer similar rigor but differ in flexibility, networking, and resource access.
Online programs increasingly provide virtual career fairs, alumni events, and industry projects to support networking. Schools may also offer cloud credits or remote lab access for compute-intensive coursework; confirm details before enrolling.
The main difference between online and in-person artificial intelligence master’s degrees is the flexibility of time and place provided by online programs. Both in-person artificial intelligence degrees and their online counterparts are beneficial for studying artificial intelligence. Moreover, an online artificial intelligence master’s degree can be as good as an in-person degree as the quality of education is generally the same.
Top 5 Benefits of an Online Master’s Degree in Artificial Intelligence
- Schedule flexibility – Probably the biggest benefit of an online artificial intelligence master’s degree is the flexibility it provides. Some programs even offer recorded lectures that you can watch on your own schedule.
- Accessibility – Complete your online degree from practically anywhere, as long as you meet the computer and Internet requirements.
- Convenience – No commuting, no searching and paying for parking, no hike to the right building on campus. Logging in and watching a lecture from the comfort of your home makes online degrees highly convenient.
- Ability to keep working – With all of the flexibility associated with online degrees, students find it easier to keep working while pursuing their degree than if they had to go to campus for in-person classes and exams.
- Affordability – An online degree saves you considerable expenses, such as money spent on gas and other commuting costs. The savings are even greater for students who otherwise would have had to relocate to the city of the campus location.
Top 5 Benefits of an In-Person Master’s Degree in Artificial Intelligence
- Dedicated space –Some students find it easier to focus in a more traditional learning space that is dedicated to education, like a lecture hall or classroom.
- Strong guidance – When it comes to getting all of your questions answered, it’s hard to beat face-to-face interaction. Simply approaching an instructor after class with a quick question usually works better than sending an email.
- Consistency – In-person classes provide consistency in terms of scheduling and pace. All students and instructors are on the same page at the same time, making it easier to learn and work together.
- Improved communication – Most people are still getting used to online experiences. Instructors are probably more likely to notice your hand raised in class than your virtual hand raised online. Students might be more reluctant to participate in online discussions as well.
- Learning resources – An in-person master’s degree allows you to take advantage of established learning resources that are only available on campus, including libraries and laboratories.
What Types of Online Master’s Degrees Can You Get in Artificial Intelligence?
Students can pursue different AI master’s formats, such as MS, MEng, MPS, or MAI, depending on career goals.
Programs may be titled MS in Artificial Intelligence, MEng in Artificial Intelligence, Master of Artificial Intelligence (M.A.I.), Master of Professional Studies (MPS) in AI, or MSCS with an AI concentration. Focus and outcomes depend more on curriculum depth and the portfolio you build than on the exact title.
Is It Better to Get a Master of Science or Master of Engineering in Artificial Intelligence?
Choosing between an MS or MEng in AI depends on whether you want research depth or applied industry practice.
MS programs often emphasize theory/research readiness (with thesis options), while MEng programs typically stress applied projects and industry practice. Employers care most about demonstrated skills and project outcomes (systems, MLOps, applied research), so map your choice to target roles and portfolio plans.
It is better to get a Master of Science in Artificial Intelligence because it will provide you with a broader exposure to in-depth knowledge in artificial intelligence and related fields. The diverse science coursework includes a wide range of relevant courses that provide opportunities for relevant skill development.
How Much Does an Artificial Intelligence Master’s Degree Cost?
The cost of an online AI master’s degree varies widely by school, tuition structure, and fees.
When budgeting, look beyond tuition to include: mandatory fees, online course or technology fees, proctoring costs, software/licenses and potential cloud/GPU spend, textbooks, graduation fees, and any optional in-person immersions. Ask about employer tuition partnerships, tuition caps, and stackable certificates that can reduce cost-to-degree.
How Long Does It Take to Get an Artificial Intelligence Master’s Degree Online?
Most online AI master’s programs take about two years, with accelerated or extended pacing options available.
- Accelerated pathways: ~12–18 months (intensive pace).
- Standard timelines: ~24 months.
- Extended options: up to 5–6 years to accommodate work/life needs.
Exact timing depends on term structure (e.g., 7–8-week modules vs. 10–15-week semesters) and course availability.
It takes about two years to get an artificial intelligence master’s degree online. Some schools offer an online accelerated Master’s Degree in Artificial Intelligence which can last 18 months or even one year.
Are Online Artificial Intelligence Degrees Respected?
Online AI master’s degrees are respected when earned from accredited institutions with rigorous curricula and strong reputations.
Employers typically weigh school reputation, curricular rigor, internships, and portfolio quality above modality. Employment in computer and information technology occupations is projected to grow much faster than the national average for all other occupations over the next decade.10
To sum this up, yes, online artificial intelligence degrees are respected. Online learning has emerged as a popular learning format in recent years, so online AI degrees are respected just like any other degree.
Is Artificial Intelligence Hard to Learn Online?
AI is challenging to master, but online programs provide resources and support to make learning manageable.
Use available supports like faculty office hours, tutoring centers, coding labs, and peer communities (Slack/Discord). If you’re new to the math/programming prerequisites, take free refreshers (linear algebra, Python) before day one to smooth the learning curve.
Although artificial intelligence is a highly technical field that will be challenging at times, having access to expert guidance and adequate learning resources, whether online or in person, makes it easier.
Artificial Intelligence Bootcamp vs Online Artificial Intelligence Master’s Degree: Which Is Better?
Artificial intelligence bootcamps provide fast, skill-focused AI training, while master’s programs deliver deeper theory and broader career opportunities.
Bootcamps offer a faster skills ramp and can be stacked with a later master’s. Some universities grant advanced standing or allow prior certificates/bootcamps to articulate into degree credit (policies vary). Master’s programs provide broader theory, research exposure, and access to roles that explicitly prefer graduate credentials.
An online artificial intelligence master’s degree is better because it gives you access to higher-paying roles, and it is more widely accepted by employers. An artificial intelligence bootcamp, on the other hand, differs from an online AI master’s degree in terms of skill development, conceptual understanding, learning experience, overall education, and time commitment.
Why You Should Get an Artificial Intelligence Master’s Degree Online
An online AI master’s degree opens doors to flexible study and high-demand career opportunities in artificial intelligence.
Graduate-level AI skills remain valuable in roles spanning ML engineering, data science, and AI applications. For example, employment of data scientists is projected to grow 34 percent from over the next decade, which is much faster than the national average for all other occupations.11
You should get an artificial intelligence master’s degree online because it opens the door to lucrative career opportunities in a quickly growing field, and you don’t even have to leave your house. Online master’s degrees offer the same skills and reputation that traditional master’s degrees do, with an emphasis on convenience.
What Courses Do You Take in an Online Master’s Degree Program in Artificial Intelligence?
AI master’s programs cover machine learning, robotics, algorithms, and ethics, with coursework blending theory and hands-on projects.
Expect contemporary coverage of responsible AI (fairness, robustness, privacy), governance frameworks, and AI safety case studies alongside core ML. Advanced electives increasingly include MLOps/LLMOps and distributed systems, which are skills tied to productionizing AI systems at scale. Programs may reference NIST’s AI RMF and Generative AI Profile.
Subjects include robotic systems, natural language processing, algorithms, and data science. Some of the more popular courses are described in detail below.
Applied Machine Learning
Solving computational problems without explicit programs is the art of machine learning. Many industries use and benefit from machine learning systems, including stock trading and cyber security. This course teaches students how to apply machine learning to solve real-life problems using data.
AI-Enabled Systems
The main objective of this course is to explore how AI-enabled systems are created from start to finish. Students are given projects related to the different phases of this lifecycle. The course also teaches the basics of AI system biases and ethics.
Human-Robotics Interaction
In this course, students examine and study the interactions between humans and robotic systems, with a focus on man-machine interfaces. This is a hands-on course where students will likely be required to spend most of the time in a lab doing artificial intelligence and robotics experiments.
Algorithms for Data Science
This course builds students’ problem-solving skills through the analysis of algorithm design techniques. Topics taught in this course include Big O notation, algorithm analysis, data transformation, and introduction to complexity classes.
Artificial Intelligence
This course mainly focuses on the three major aspects of artificial intelligence: pattern recognition, optimization, and reasoning. This course covers model evaluation, logical reasoning, and machine learning rules, with conceptual assignments using Python programming.
Continuing Education Paths for Online Artificial Intelligence Master’s Degree Graduates
Graduates may pursue doctoral programs, post-master’s certificates, or funded traineeships in artificial intelligence.
Beyond doctoral study and post-master’s certificates, explore external funding where applicable. The best path to take with an online artificial intelligence master’s degree is a doctoral degree and various professional certifications.
Related Online Artificial Intelligence Degrees
If you’re not ready for graduate school, several online bachelor’s degrees provide a foundation in computer science, data science, and AI-related skills. These programs can prepare you for entry-level roles or serve as stepping stones to an AI master’s.
- Arizona State University – Online BS in Computer Science
- Oregon State University – Online BS in Computer Science (Post-Bacc Option)
- University of London – Online BSc in Computer Science (with AI Specialization)
- Southern New Hampshire University – Online BS in Computer Science
- Colorado State University Global – Online BS in Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning
What to Look For in the Best Artificial Intelligence Master’s Degree Programs
When choosing an online AI master’s, compare accreditation, cost, services, and career outcomes to find the best fit.
- Modality (100% online vs. hybrid) and time-zone fit.
- Cohort size and access to faculty.
- Capstone sponsors/practicum opportunities.
- Faculty research areas and lab affiliations.
- Compute access (GPUs/cloud credits) and licensed software.
- Career services, alumni networks, and employer partnerships.
The things to look for in the best artificial intelligence master’s degree programs are accreditation, cost, student services, employment outcomes, and reputation of the school.
What Is the Most Affordable Online Artificial Intelligence Master’s Degree?
Lower-cost AI master’s programs can be found at public universities that charge modest per-credit tuition.
The most affordable online artificial intelligence master’s degree program is offered by Colorado State University–Global Campus and is the Master of Science in Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning. The University of Texas at San Antonio has the second-most affordable tuition rates for a degree. See the above sections for more in-depth information about each school.
Can I Get an Artificial Intelligence Master’s Degree Online for Free?
You cannot earn an accredited AI master’s degree entirely for free, but scholarships and aid can offset tuition.
You can’t get a free degree, but you may combine: employer tuition benefits, institutional scholarships, need-based aid, and (for research-aligned students) traineeships/fellowships where eligible. External programs such as NSF’s NRT support graduate training in select areas.
Salary and Job Outlook for Online Artificial Intelligence Master’s Degree Graduates
Graduates of AI master’s programs qualify for high-paying roles with strong growth projections in computer and data occupations.
Employment of computer and information research scientists is projected to grow 20 percent over the next decade, while software developer employment is projected to grow 15 percent over the same period.12-13 Data scientists are projected to grow 34 percent over the next decade.11
Graduating with an online Master’s Degree in Artificial Intelligence paves the way for steady career growth.
How Hard Is It to Get a Job With an Artificial Intelligence Master’s Degree?
With hands-on projects and career services, AI master’s graduates generally find strong job opportunities.
The program prepares graduates for the job market by providing in-depth education and hands-on skills in this growing field. Many schools also offer career placement services to help students stand out.
What’s the Average Online Artificial Intelligence Master’s Degree Salary?
The average salary for AI master’s graduates depends on role, industry, and experience level.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, median salaries include $112,590 for data scientists, $131,450 for software developers, and $140,910 for computer and information research scientists.11-13
What Jobs Can You Get With an Online Artificial Intelligence Master’s Degree?
AI master’s graduates pursue careers as machine learning engineers, data scientists, and AI researchers.
Common paths include:
- Platform/Infrastructure (MLOps, data pipelines, distributed training).
- Applied ML/AI Engineering (supervised/unsupervised learning, LLM applications, evaluation).
- Research/Science (model design, experimentation).
- AI Product/Analytics (experiment design, product metrics, A/B testing).
The jobs you can get with an online artificial intelligence master’s degree are machine learning engineer, robotics and artificial intelligence engineer, data scientist, and business intelligence developer.
How Much Money Can You Make With an Online Artificial Intelligence Master’s Degree?
Earnings for AI master’s graduates typically range from the high five figures to well above six figures, depending on role.
Having a graduate degree in artificial intelligence makes you eligible for many high-paying jobs. The more experience and expertise you have in this field, the more you can expect to earn.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, updated median wages include:
- Computer and Information Research Scientists: $140,910 per year, 20% growth12
- Software Developers: $131,450 per year, 15% growth13
- Data Scientists: $112,590 per year, 34% growth11
- Database Architects: $123,100 per year, 4% growth14
- Mechanical Engineers (includes robotics engineers): $102,320per year, 9% growth15
Best Jobs for Online Artificial Intelligence Master’s Degree Grads
Top jobs for AI master’s graduates include data scientist, software developer, and robotics engineer roles.
Computer and Information Research Scientist
Computer and information research scientists identify computing problems and propose solutions, often using machine learning and applied data science.
- Median Salary: $140,91012
- Job Outlook: 20% growth10
Software Developer
Software developers design, build, and maintain software programs that power AI tools and applications.
- Median Salary: $131,45013
- Job Outlook: 15% growth11
Data Scientist
Data scientists analyze and interpret complex data to enable AI systems and decision-making.
- Median Salary: $112,59011
- Job Outlook: 34% growth11
Database Architect (Big Data Engineer)
Database architects design and manage large-scale data systems for AI-driven organizations.
- Median Salary: $123,10014
- Job Outlook: 4% growth14
Robotics Engineer
Robotics engineers apply AI concepts to build and optimize robots for automation and smart functionality.
- Median Salary: $102,32015
- Job Outlook: 9% growth15
Is an Online Artificial Intelligence Master’s Degree Worth It?
An online AI master’s degree is worth it for those seeking advanced knowledge and access to high-growth career paths.
This path best serves candidates targeting roles that value graduate-level depth (e.g., ML engineering, applied research, AI-intensive product teams) or those seeking to pivot into AI from adjacent technical backgrounds. Employment in computer and information technology occupations is projected to grow, with over 317,000 projected new job openings every year.10
Earning an online Master’s Degree in Artificial Intelligence is an important milestone for advancement in this growing tech field. It opens doors for better career opportunities and builds technical skills that apply across industries.
Artificial intelligence is used in a wide range of industries. The most popular among them include transportation, finance, healthcare, and manufacturing. Many companies hire artificial intelligence professionals and science professionals with master’s degrees for top positions.
Yes, artificial intelligence is a good career option. Employment of data scientists is projected to grow 34 percent from 2024 to 2034, which is much faster than average.11
The skills you need to become an artificial intelligence specialist are proficiency in programming languages such as Python and SQL, data management techniques, cloud technology, and mathematics. You can acquire these skills by attending artificial intelligence and machine learning programs. Moreover, proficiency in these areas will help you improve your career prospects and give you the opportunity to stand out to hiring managers.
Yes, you need prior experience to land a career in artificial intelligence. If you are a beginner and have no prior experience with programming or AI, you must get relevant work experience by doing projects pertinent to this field. Artificial intelligence bootcamps are helpful in providing you with the necessary experience to qualify for a job. Moreover, you can also pursue a career in machine learning by using your knowledge of artificial intelligence.
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- https://www.bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/computer-and-information-research-scientists.htm
- https://www.bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/software-developers.htm
- https://www.bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/database-administrators.htm
- https://www.bls.gov/ooh/architecture-and-engineering/mechanical-engineers.htm
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