Master of Science (MS) in

Artificial Intelligence

Online

Program Overview

Build advanced expertise at the forefront of artificial intelligence, machine learning, and data-driven innovation. The Master of Science in Artificial Intelligence prepares students to develop, evaluate, and apply AI solutions across industries while gaining the technical depth needed for research, advanced careers, or doctoral study.

With a strong foundation in computational methods, this program emphasizes hands-on problem-solving, interdisciplinary collaboration, and real-world application in areas such as robotics, computer vision, and large language models.

Online Program Format

30 Credit Hours

$440 Tuition Per Hour

Flexible Pathways for Advanced AI Study

The MS in Artificial Intelligence is a 30-credit-hour program designed for students with a background in computer science or a related STEM field. This program builds deep expertise in machine learning and computational AI, prepares graduates for advanced technical roles or PhD-level research, and supports workforce demand for AI-skilled professionals across industries.

Graduates are well-positioned for roles such as data scientists, machine learning engineers, AI researchers and robotics engineers. The program also provides a strong foundation for those interested in pursuing PhD-level research or advanced technical careers in artificial intelligence.

Application Deadline

Applications accepted year round for fall and spring admission

Curriculum

The MS in Artificial Intelligence curriculum includes 30 credit hours and is structured to build both foundational knowledge and specialized expertise in the field. Students begin with core courses in artificial intelligence, machine learning, programming and mathematical foundations before selecting advanced electives in areas such as computer vision, robotics, and large language models. Please note that courses are subject to change.

Students can choose between two flexible pathways:

Thesis/Research Option (Plan I):
Conduct original AI research in collaboration with faculty.
Coursework Option (Plan II):
Complete advanced AI coursework focused on real-world applications and technical depth.

Required Courses

All students take the following required courses, regardless of pathway option. Students completing Plan I will take 12 hours of electives with 6 hours of thesis research, CS 599. Students completing Plan II will take 18 hours of electives.

CS 523 Python for Big Data
CS 565 Artificial Intelligence
CS 566 AI Computation and Theory
CS 583 Computational Foundations of Machine Learning

Elective Courses

CS 551 Data Science
CS 560 Introduction to Autonomous Robots
CS 561 Brain Computer Interface
CS 563 Computer Vision
CS 581 High Performance Computing
CS 584 Reinforcement Learning
CS 598 Non-Thesis Research
CS 651 Deep Generative Modeling
CS 665 Intelligent Robotics
CS 683 Large Language Models

Admission

Application Deadlines

MS in AI applications are accepted on a rolling basis for fall and spring entry. Applicants must hold a STEM-related bachelor’s degree or demonstrate relevant experience in the application, including competency in programming and mathematics.

Application Requirements

Applicants must have the following qualifications:

Bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution (computer science or another STEM discipline, or equivalent industry experience)
Academic transcripts from all institutions attended
Resume (optional, but recommended)
Statement of purpose, which should address your background, reasons for enrolling in the MS in AI and post-graduation goals over 1-2 pages.

FAQs

Who should apply?

This program is ideal for students and professionals who want to develop advanced expertise in artificial intelligence, machine learning, and computational systems while preparing for high-demand technical careers. It is well-suited for those seeking flexibility to pursue either research or coursework-based study, as well as individuals interested in applying AI across fields such as healthcare, robotics and data science.

Is this program fully online?

Yes, this program is 100% online. Students will have an option to take live, synchronous lectures with main-campus MS students, but live participation is not required. All lectures will be recorded and made available to online learners as asynchronous content.

Does the program require a thesis?

No, students can choose to complete a thesis or complete additional coursework in lieu of a thesis. Both pathways are 30 credit hours and require a comprehensive exam, which is scheduled in the semester the student intends to graduate.

How long does it take to complete?

Students can enroll full-time or part-time, which will determine the time to graduation. Some UA Online graduate programs can be completed in as little as a year with full-time enrollment.

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