The top online AI degrees and programs are flexible options for working professionals to advance their careers in Artificial Intelligence.
You likely interact with Artificial Intelligence daily. So, even if you don’t know what it’s called, you probably already know about AI. For example, if you have a smartphone, use a map to navigate, shop online, or have used that chatbox on a website for help, you have used AI.
Humans and animals have natural intelligence, and machines demonstrate Artificial Intelligence or AI. We refer to it as artificial because many incredibly intelligent humans have written complex algorithms that tell the machines what to do under certain circumstances. And they are extraordinarily good at it!
When machines learn from experience and perform human-like tasks, it is called Artificial Intelligence, or AI. Most AI examples rely heavily on deep learning and natural language processing. These technologies can train computers by processing large amounts of data and recognizing patterns in the data. So, if you are interested in a career in AI, keep reading for the best online AI programs.
How We Ranked The Top Online Artificial Intelligence Program
The editors at Online Schools Guide found schools offering online programs in artificial intelligence. Then, based on cost and reputation, we ranked the online artificial intelligence degrees.
| School | Program |
|---|---|
| 1. Wayne Community College | AAS in Artificial Intelligence |
| 2. University of Colorado Boulder | CS Post-Baccalaureate in Artificial Intelligence |
| 3. Davenport University | BS in Computer Science with a specialization in Artificial Intelligence |
| 4. University of Advancing Technology | BS in Artificial Intelligence |
| 5. Stanford University | Graduate Certificate in AI |
| 6. Colorado State University Global | MS in Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning |
| 7. University of San Diego | MS in Applied Artificial Intelligence |
| 8. Southern Methodist University | MS in Computer Science with an AI specialization |
| 9. Lewis University | MS in Computer Science with an Artificial Intelligence concentration |
| 10. CSU-Fort Collins | Master of Computer Science with an Artificial Intelligence focus |
1. Wayne Community College
Wayne Community College offers an online associate degree in AI and Automation Programming.
Even out-of-state tuition is inexpensive, and the in-state cost is unbelievable. This program is the most affordable one available. Furthermore, this innovative program is one of the country’s first associate degrees in AI. Students in this 75-credit program learn current automation and AI concepts and techniques for problem-solving. In addition, they complete a 16-week AI project using best practices. Graduates find roles in various AI-related positions in banking, finance, engineering, manufacturing, transport, logistics, and healthcare.
Wayne Community College is in Goldsboro, North Carolina. The school is part of the NC Community College System and opened in 1958. WCC has accreditation from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools and offers over 70 degrees and programs.
2. University of Colorado Boulder
The University of Colorado Boulder offers an online Computer Science Post-Baccalaureate degree in Artificial Intelligence. This top online AI degree program is for undergraduate students who did not major in a computer science-related field. With 45 additional credits, students can earn this second Bachelor of Science degree. Classes cover a broad understanding of computer science. In addition, students take 19 credit hours of elective courses for the Artificial Intelligence specialization.
CU Boulder is a public university in the Colorado town of Boulder. The school opened in 1876, only a few months before Colorado became a state. Boulder is the flagship of the University of Colorado system and enrolls around 35,000 students annually. The university offers over 150 degree programs through its nine colleges and schools.
3. Davenport University
Davenport University offers a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science degree specializing in Artificial Intelligence. Two other specializations are available in Gaming and Simulation and Computer Architecture and Algorithms. Students can complete a bachelor’s degree with 120 credits. Davenport also offers a 60-credit associate degree in Computer Information Systems that applies toward the BS.
Davenport University is a private university with ten campuses across Michigan and an Online Global Campus. The school opened in 1866 and offers both undergraduate and graduate degrees.
4. University of Advancing Technology
An online BS in Artificial Intelligence is available at the University of Advancing Technology. This top online AI degree program combines modern theory, industry standards, and experiential learning. Students take classes in five-week modules, with three in each 15-week semester. In addition, students complete an internship or project to graduate.
The University of Advancing Technology is known for its innovative programs focusing on technology. In addition, the school created and uses Synchronic Learning for online learning. UAT is in the Arizona town of Tempe and is a private university. The school opened in 1983 and offers associate, bachelor’s, and master’s degrees. Additionally, it enrolls over 1,000 students annually on campus and online.
5. Stanford University
Stanford University offers an online Graduate Certificate in Artificial Intelligence. The school recommends applicants have a strong background in Probability for Computer Science and Theory of Probability.
Applicants should also have a strong math and programming background. Students learn advanced knowledge of the Artificial Intelligence field. Classes cover topics in Logic, Machine Learning, and Knowledge Representation. Furthermore, students must complete three elective courses for this artificial intelligence graduate certificate. However, they can personalize their education with a unique career-focused curriculum.
Stanford University is a private university in the California town of Stanford. The school opened in 1885 and is one of the best universities in the world. Stanford enrolls over 17,000 students annually and offers undergraduate and graduate degree programs.
6. Colorado State University Global
Colorado State University Global offers a Master of Science in Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning entirely online. Students learn the core knowledge necessary to have a successful career in AI. Coursework topics include machine learning, computer science, and software development. In addition, students learn core requirements like software development and programming.
CSU Global is a public university and part of the Colorado University System. The school opened in 2007 and is the online campus for Colorado’s public universities. It offers online degrees to non-traditional, adult professional students in Colorado. Since it is online, there is no campus, but the headquarters are in the Colorado town of Aurora. Additionally, the Colorado University System has accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission.
7. University of San Diego
The Shiley-Marcos School of Engineering offers an online Master of Science in Applied Artificial Intelligence at the University of San Diego.
This artificial intelligence degree program teaches students to create autonomous decision-making intelligence. Additionally, they learn to apply this AI to robotics, text analysis, and computer vision. Furthermore, the ethical applications of AI are a central focus, and students understand AI social responsibility. The 30-credit program takes most students twenty months to complete.
The University of San Diego is a private university affiliated with the Catholic church. The school opened in 1949 and is in the California city of San Diego. USD has over 80 undergraduate and graduate degree programs and enrolls approximately 9,000 students annually.
8. Southern Methodist University
Southern Methodist University offers an online MS in Computer Science specializing in AI. This 30-credit master’s program is through the Lyle School of Engineering. It includes courses in AI, computer architecture, and machine learning. This artificial intelligence degree program format is online asynchronous. However, students can participate in weekly live sessions with instructors and professors.
Southern Methodist University is a private institution affiliated with the Methodist Church. The main campus is in Texas, just outside of Dallas. However, the school also has a satellite campus in New Mexico. SMU opened in 1911. Today the university enrolls over 12,00 students annually.
9. Lewis University
Lewis University offers an online Master of Science in Computer Science degree with an artificial intelligence concentration.
This AI concentration is excellent for students interested in machine learning. The program focuses on the design and implementation of intelligent systems. These computer systems collect information, learn from it, and respond to the information in their environment.
Located in the Illinois town of Romeoville, Lewis University is about thirty miles south of Chicago. The school opened in 1932 and is affiliated with the Catholic Church. Today, Lewis offers over 100 undergraduate and graduate programs.
10. Colorado State University at Fort Collins
Colorado State University has a Master of Computer Science with an in-depth focus on Artificial Intelligence. Students can attend this artificial intelligence degree program entirely online or on-campus.
The master’s program is 35 credits and takes most students two years to complete. Through online channels, students share ideas and interact with other students. At the same time, the flexible format allows students to work at their own pace.
CSU in Fort Collins is part of the Colorado University system. CSU has regional accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission.
What is Artificial Intelligence or AI?
Artificial Intelligence is an area of computer science. It is commonly referred to as AI and deals with the theory and development of computer software applications that mimic human intelligence. These software applications can make decisions using complex data sets. It draws inferences from context and can reach conclusions based on experiences.
AI software applications are the foundation for self-driving cars and robots. In addition to autonomous devices, many other technologies rely on AI applications. These include face recognition software, face recognition, and even the internet. Because of its wide application, AI is changing how we work and live.
AI Terms
Below are some commonly used terms in AI.
Machine learning is a component of artificial intelligence. AI and machine learning involve the creation of computer programs that access data and then use it to “learn” or improve their functions by themselves. Artificial intelligence machine learning is used frequently by computer scientists and machine learning engineers.
Deep learning is a type of machine learning. It mimics the way the human brain works to learn new information.
Human computer interaction focuses on how humans and computers interact and how to design technology to facilitate this interaction.
Natural language processing involves linguistics and computer science and teaches computers to understand and use human language.
Neural networks are based on neurons in the human brain with interconnecting nodes between computer systems.
Why is Artificial Intelligence (AI) Important?
Artificial intelligence (AI) is what makes machines learn from experience. They take in information, adjust the data as needed, and perform a human-like task. Some AI sectors include health care, banking, retail, and manufacturing.
AI enhances the speed, precision, and effectiveness of human efforts. For example, AI techniques can identify fraudulent transactions in banking and finance and provide fast and accurate credit scoring. In addition, AI applications in healthcare provide personalized life coaches that remind you to take your pills, exercise, or eat healthier.
What Degree is Best for a Job in AI?
Generally speaking, a computer science degree is the most common choice for students interested in a career in artificial intelligence. Many colleges and universities offer specializations or concentrations in Artificial Intelligence as part of a computer science degree.
This is reflected in our list of online AI programs. Additionally, machine learning is another specialization students choose to prepare for a career in Artificial Intelligence.
The level of the degree is another factor. Historically, top-level AI jobs required a master’s degree. However, as the field grows, more degrees are available. There are quite a few bachelor’s degrees in AI. And recently, associate degrees in AI have emerged.
Additionally, most AI jobs require applicants to know various programming languages and applications. Most artificial intelligence programs know this and build current employment criteria into the curriculum. However, students should pay attention to the employment market and ask questions about how a degree prepares them for employment.
What Do You Learn in an AI Degree Program?
Students in an Artificial Intelligence degree program take core courses and then elective classes. Below are some examples of classes students take in top online AI degrees.
- Artificial Intelligence Computer Vision
- Deep Learning
- Machine Learning
- Natural Language Processing
- Neural Networks Embedded Systems
- Theoretical Computer Science Algorithms
- Blockchain Cryptography
- General Data Science
- Reinforcement Learning
- Data Structures
- Big Data Data Mining
- Bioinformatics
- Biostatistics Data Analysis
- Data Visualization
- Software and Tools include – Apache, Hadoop, Apache Spark, MATLAB, R
Is AI a High-Paying Job?
The short answer is yes. The average salary for someone working in Artificial Intelligence is around $100,000 per year in the United States. However, the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) does not have an exact date on just AI. So computer science jobs with reported data are below.
It is also worth noting that jobs with an associate degree in AI don’t have any information on the BLS. However, they are available and pay well.
With a bachelor’s degree, you can work as a Software developer. In this role, you design computer applications or programs. The annual salary in May 2020 was $110,140. Additionally, this job sector will grow twenty-two percent (22%) between 2020 and 2030.
Computer and Information Research Scientists generally need a master’s degree. These workers create and improve computer software and hardware. The annual salary in May 2020 was $126,830. Computer and Information Research Scientist jobs will also increase by twenty-two percent (22%) between 2020 and 2030.
What Jobs Can I Get with a Degree in Artificial Intelligence?
There are many jobs you can get with a degree in Artificial Intelligence. With a simple Google search, you can find information about AI jobs in your area for graduates with online AI and machine learning degrees.
However, here are two top careers to get you started on your search.
Artificial Intelligence Specialist
An AI specialist creates software programs and machines that think for themselves.
So how much does an Artificial Intelligence Specialist make? The US national average salary estimate from Glassdoor for an Artificial Intelligence Specialist is $124,812.
Machine Learning Specialist
A Machine Learning Specialist develops computer algorithms that can learn from or adapt to the data. These automate predictive models can then make predictions.
So how much does a Machine Learning Specialist make? As of Feb 2022, the average US annual pay estimate from Ziprecruiter for a Machine Learning Specialist is $111,295 a year.
Career Outlook with Top Online AI Degrees
Is AI a good career? Absolutely. As long as we create new technology, workers will be in demand in this field. It is one of the best jobs to consider for the future. Not only does it pay well, but the job growth is enormous.
In addition to these degrees, you may want to start with a class or certification. Whether you’re looking for a top AI certification or an artificial intelligence free online course for beginners, there are many great options. For example, an artificial intelligence AI certification by Microsoft is one of the best artificial intelligence courses for beginners.
Also, many of the best artificial intelligence classes are online for free. For instance, a free online Google artificial intelligence course with a certificate is another great option. So, if you haven’t already considered one of the online AI programs – find one today!
Similar Degree Programs to a Top Online AI Degrees
Maybe AI is not for you. Then, you may be interested in other programs like Data Analytics, Software Engineering, or Computer Science.
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