Key takeaways
- An Artificial Intelligence degree can equip you with a wide range of skills that lead to high-paying career opportunities.
- You can pursue an AI degree at an associate, bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral level.
- Through the program, you will develop skills such as programming, machine learning, interactive user interface design, and more.
- Prestigious institutions such as Carnegie Mellon University, University of Pennsylvania, Illinois Institute of Technology, and more offer a bachelor’s AI degree.
- Strayer University and Colorado State University Global are just some of the colleges and universities offering an Artificial Intelligence degree online.
- With a bachelor’s degree, you can pursue jobs such as data scientist, software engineer, AI Engineer, Machine Learning Engineer, and so on.
- In the last 8 years, there has been a 323% increase in the employment of AI skills professionals, indicating that the skilled professionals in the field are in high demand.
An artificial intelligence (AI) degree leads to high-paying career opportunities in a field where innovation and passion are a must. Through an AI degree, you can become part of the skilled professional pool that is in high demand among employers. Whether you aspire to help restructure organizations and the way they operate or would like to offer simplified solutions and methods for complex problems and operations, this is the right degree for you.
In this guide, you will find program details for Artificial Intelligence degrees, career opportunities, and a list of colleges from where you can pursue a bachelor’s degree in AI.
What is Artificial Intelligence?
Artificial Intelligence is the process of creating machines that can mimic human intelligence. Their main feature is that they can learn in real time through the data input they receive and alter their behavior or responses based on what they have learned. It does so through sophisticated neural networks, which are computational models that process large volumes of data through interconnected nodes.
Additionally, AI systems use Natural Language Processing (NLP) and computer vision. NLP enables machines to understand human language whereas computer vision allows for object identification, and sorting, including image and video processing. Through different NLP algorithms, AI professionals train machines to understand human speech, text, and writing, including context and sentiment analysis.
AI professionals are at the forefront of innovation in our digitally driven-world. Today, we have AI writing tools such as ChatGPT, and AI Tools to detect AI-generated content along with other, more sophisticated tools and technologies. From fully automated self-driving cars to Tesla’s Optimus, a humanoid helper, the advancement in AI in recent years is truly astounding.
If you want to be a part of a field that is at the forefront of innovation and technological advancements, an AI degree is ideal for you.
How to learn Artificial Intelligence?
A formal education in Artificial Intelligence is the ideal way to learn the skills and develop comprehensive knowledge in the field of AI. The degree not only helps you learn about the program or the field, but also obtain a respected credential, which can help you advance your career and become eligible for a wider range of job opportunities in the field.
You can pursue an AI degree at varying levels from associate to PhD.
Associate’s degree in AI
2-year community colleges offer associate degrees which last 2 years and feature around 60 credits. The goal of the program is to equip students with the skills and workforce training needed for entry-level roles in AI. After graduating with an associate degree, students become eligible for a bachelor’s program, starting from 5th semester onwards, depending on available transferable credits.
Bachelor’s AI degree
At the undergraduate level, a bachelor’s degree has a much better scope in the professional field than an associate’s. The program lasts 4 to 5 years and features 120 credits. Generally, the credits are divided between course categories such as general education, core-specific, and electives. Through the comprehensive curriculum, you will develop a wide range of skills allowing you to pursue a wider range of job opportunities in AI.
Master of Science in Artificial Intelligence
A Master of Science in Artificial Intelligence can help professionals develop advanced or specialized skills within AI. It also presents a wealth of career advancement opportunities in the field. With a master’s degree, graduates become eligible for senior or managerial-level positions, leading teams, and AI projects.
Artificial Intelligence PhD
If you want to be part of the research and development field in AI, a PhD is the degree level for you. To be eligible for a PhD program, you need to have completed a master’s degree and be passionate about research and project development in the field. With a PhD, you become eligible for jobs in teaching, professorship, and research.
Bachelor’s degree in AI – Program details
At the undergraduate level, a bachelor’s degree offers the most value for your time and money. Through it, you will develop the full range of competencies required by AI professionals, including technical and professional skills. You can pursue either a standalone AI degree, or pursue Artificial Intelligence as a major in a Computer Science, Data Science, Machine Learning, or IT degree.
Any program that features a curriculum focused on programming, mathematics, and machine learning is an excellent choice and this includes engineering programs such as a bachelor’s in software engineering. It is important to note that finding a stand-alone degree in AI in the US might prove to be a bit of a challenge as not many US colleges and universities offer an AI degree.
However, an AI major is widely available and easily pursuable in combination with a relevant program, especially a computer science or a software engineering degree.
AI program curriculum
The program curriculum depends on whether you are pursuing an Artificial Intelligence major, or a BS in Artificial Intelligence. It also varies depending on the college, faculty, and the set learning outcomes. But regardless of where you study and what program you follow, you will have to take courses in mathematics, statistics, computer science, data analytics, humanities and arts, engineering, and AI.
AI is a technical field with applications ranging from self-driving cars, and fraud detection machinery, to surgical robots. Even face detection software that we use on our phones is made possible by AI. To develop the expertise and technical skills needed to code, program, and create the technology of tomorrow, you will take courses in the above-mentioned areas.
The following are courses offered in Carnegie Mellon University’s Bachelor of Science in Artificial Intelligence program.
Mathematics and Statistics
- Math Foundations for Computer Science
- Differential and Integral Calculus
- Matrices and Linear Transformation
- Probability Theory for Computer Scientists
- Calculus in Three Dimensions
Computer Science Core
- Principles of Imperative Computation
- Principles of Functional Programming
- Parallel and Sequential Data Programming
- Great Theoretical Ideas in Computer Science
- Introduction to Computer Systems
Artificial Intelligence
- Introduction to AI
- Neural Computation
- Cognitive Robotics
- Planning Techniques for Robots
- Introduction to Natural Language Processing
- Introduction to Machine Learning
- Deep Reinforcement Learning and Control
- Machine Learning for Structured Data
- Generative AI
- Bayesian Methods in Machine Learning
- Introduction to Convex Optimization
- Advanced Methods for Data Analysis
- Machine Learning for Text and Graph-based Mining
- Human AI Interaction
- Designing Human-Centered Software
- Speech Processing
- Computational Perception
- Vision Sensors
Electives
- Ethics and Robots
- AI, Society, and Humanity
Admission requirements
The admission requirements to any bachelor’s degree feature some key components and certain specific admission requirements. While the specific requirements vary depending on the college, program type, and your previous qualifications, the key components are essentially the same. These include:
- High school diploma
- Standardized Test Scores (SAT/ACT)
- Recommendation letters
- Personal essay
The specific admission requirements for students applying for a bachelor’s degree after high school graduation include:
- High school diploma with a strong foundation in:
- Mathematics – 4 years
- Statistics
- Calculus
- Computer Science
- Minimum high school GPA
- Minimum SAT/ACT Scores with additional minimum required scores in components such as mathematics.
- 2-3 letters of recommendation
- Personal essay
However, if you are applying after obtaining an associate’s degree, the requirements will vary. You will need to submit the official transcript of your associate’s degree, meet the credit transfer criteria, and have taken the required courses in relevant fields.
We suggest associate degree graduates reach out to on-campus education counselors to better understand the admission requirements and determine how many previously earned credits are transferable.
Graduation requirements
A bachelor’s degree typically features 120 to 135 credits. These credits are distributed among the different components or sections within a bachelor’s degree such as general education, core-specific courses, and electives. In an Artificial Intelligence degree, you might also need to take at least one or two courses in different AI specializations such as Machine learning, Human AI Interaction, Data Science, Robotics, Perception and Language, and Ethics in AI.
General graduation requirements include:
- Completion of required credits as per listed distribution
- Minimum GPA
- Completion of Internship
- Submission of capstone project
Areas of study in Artificial Intelligence
The Artificial Intelligence field is vast and the career opportunities in it are diverse. To further enhance your career prospects, you can strengthen your expertise in different areas of study within the field by choosing relevant electives and undertaking tasks in your field of interest when working on projects.
Robotics
Robotics in AI is a field of study that teaches students how to create robots with human-like intelligence. Through the program, the students learn to write algorithms that enable robots to solve problems, think critically, and make decisions. Here, students will take courses in machine learning, natural language processing, and computer vision. You will learn different AI tools and techniques and the use and incorporation of sensors and technologies for optimal results.
Courses in robotics can include:
- Principles of Robotic Theory
- Computer Vision
- Fundamentals of Information Retrieval and Web Searching
- Principles of Machine Learning
Data Science
The fields of data science and AI are very closely related and somewhat dependent on each other. Data Science is the study of data to find patterns and solve pressing problems. Through statistical analysis and the use of computer science, data science professionals analyze data, identify patterns and trends, and find areas of improvement. AI professionals use the data to improve the technology and enhance developments in AI.
Data science courses in AI can include:
- Statistical Methods for Data Science
- Introduction to Data Science
- Probability Theory for Computer Scientists
Machine Learning
Through machine learning, students learn to train robots to learn from their experiences and the data gathered. AI professionals incorporate data science, programming, and other disciplines to create systems enabling robots or AI machines to gather information, process data, derive lessons, and highlight areas of improvement. It is through machine learning that AI modern-day robots and AI machines and programs are made possible:
Courses in the field include:
- Computational Data Analysis
- Network Science
- Machine Learning Theory
Natural Language Processing
Natural Language Processing (NLP) is what gives AI machines and programs the ability to understand human language. It includes writing algorithms that will enable machines to understand the meaning of text, its structure, context, and more. It is a comprehensive area that also includes understanding the different dialects, slang, and grammar. Natural Language Processing is what makes possible the creation of AI assistants, and chatbots.
Courses in this area of study include:
- Speech Processing
- Computational Perception
- Scripting Languages
Human-Computer-Interaction
Human-computer interaction is the study of how humans interact with computers. In this area of study, you will learn how to design interfaces, gather user feedback, and analyze and incorporate it to create improved systems. Here, you will learn how to use the latest technologies, including eye-movement tracking, speech recognition, Cloud computing, Augmented Reality (AR), and Virtual Reality (VR).
In-demand skills you learn in an AI degree
AI is at the forefront of all technological advancements in nearly all areas of the global economy as its applications are far and wide. From the face detection software on our phones, chatbots, and virtual assistants, to fraud prevention, healthcare, and even supply chain automation, AI is being used everywhere.
For a career in AI, you need some essential technical and professional skills.
Programming
Regardless of which career path you want to follow after obtaining a degree in AI, programming is a foundational skill essential for all roles within Artificial Intelligence. Whether you want to go into Machine Learning, Algorithm Development, or any other field, knowledge of programming languages such as Python, Java, C++, Lisp, and others is essential.
Data Modelling, Data Processing and Analytics
Data modeling, processing, and analysis are essential for advancements and improvements in Artificial Intelligence. Through data modeling, professionals create physical models for how data will be stored and used. Employers prefer professionals with a wide range of data modeling, warehousing, and organizational models such as computational, logical, and physical models. Additionally, knowledge of data modeling techniques such as the Dimensional model, Entity-Relationship model, data warehouse model, and more is a plus.
Machine Learning
Machine learning specialists are what enable AI computer systems to learn from data. Professionals able to design systems that can unearth patterns from huge amounts of data and continuous learning are what will help developed systems compete and thrive in today’s environment. Within machine learning algorithm optimization, neural network, training, current AI, and other machine learning techniques.
Intelligent User Interface (IUI)
The Intelligent User Interface (IUI) is a type of user interface that uses AI to create interactive user interfaces that improve overall user experience. Key skills for this field include being able to understand user intent, personalize the experience, provide proactive assistance, and enable natural interactions.
Colleges offering a bachelor’s AI degree
College planning and finding the best AI college for undergrad can be quite challenging, especially for specialized fields such as BS in Artificial Intelligence. You can either use the AI College Search Tool or find a suitable option from colleges offering an AI degree listed below.
| College | Acceptance % | Graduation % | Tuition |
| Carnegie Mellon University | 11% | 80% | $63,829 |
| Stony Brook University | 49% | 76% | $10,560 in-state
$30,350 out-of-state |
| Oakland University | 90% | 57% | $14,694 in-state
$23,188 out-of-state |
| John Brown University | 57% | 72% | $30,832 |
| Illinois Institute of Technology | 61% | 70% | $51,763 |
| University of Pennsylvania | 7% | 96% | $66,104 |
| University of Nebraska Omaha | 86% | 49% | $8,718 in-state
$23,206 out-of-state |
| Indiana University | 80% | 69% | $12,142 in-state
$41,890 out-of-state |
Can I pursue an Artificial Intelligence degree online?
Whether you want to pursue an AI degree online or on campus, there are plenty of US colleges and universities that offer a bachelor’s degree in the field. Online programs for a technical program such as Artificial Intelligence may not seem like the best option, but it does offer significant advantages that outweigh the cons for some. Before you make a decision on which mode of delivery to attend, carefully consider the pros and cons of an online program.
What are the advantages of pursuing an Artificial Intelligence degree online?
An online Artificial Intelligence degree is a much more affordable option than a traditional program. While the tuition for on-campus and online programs is generally the same, the cost of attendance is significantly lower for an online program than a traditional one.
Distance education learners don’t have to account for transportation or accommodation. Moreover, they save time when attending classes from an off-campus location. The time saved can be used to pursue part-time employment opportunities.
However, the most significant advantage of an online AI degree is that students and aspiring professionals from anywhere in the world can pursue an online program without worrying about visa restrictions or requirements.
What are the disadvantages of an online AI degree?
Distance learners may find themselves isolated and feeling lonely and overwhelmed. They oversee their own learning schedule and graph which can be quite stressful and difficult to cope with. Moreover, they must be self-sufficient in terms of technology as they are unable to rely upon on-campus resources.
Colleges offering an AI degree online
Should you decide that an online program is the right fit for you, here is a list of colleges from where you can pursue the program.
| College | Acceptance % | Graduation % | Tuition |
| Dakota State University | 79% | 42% | $9,633 in-state
$12,735 out-of-state |
| Strayer University | 100% | 13.5% | $1,525 per course |
| Colorado State University Global | 96.9% | 36.3% | $8,400 |
| Capella University | 100% | 26% | $14,436 |
Artificial Intelligence jobs you can get with a bachelor’s degree
Degrees in AI lead to financially rewarding career opportunities in an exciting and innovative field. You become eligible for many roles in engineering, robotics, and other computer and IT occupations, which is one of the fastest-growing fields in the US. Here are some jobs you become eligible for with a bachelor’s degree in AI.
| Job title | Average salary |
| Data Scientist | $108,020 |
| Machine Learning Engineer | $122,584 |
| Software Engineer | $118,078 |
| Database Architects | $134,700 |
| AI Engineer | $133,775 |
| Natural Language Processing Engineer | $123,226 |
| Robotics Engineer | $112,867 |
| Deep Learning Engineer | $129,879 |
Artificial Intelligence industry overview and hiring trends
The global Artificial Intelligence market is vast with many diverse applications. These include speech recognition, self-driving cars, image processing, chatbots, and so much more. Advancements in the field have even enabled the creation of Tesla’s Humanoid – Robot Assistant.
According to reports by Statista, the global AI market is projected to grow with a Compound Annual Growth Rate of 27.67% in the next five years until 2030. In 2030, the market will be valued at USD 826.70 billion. In 2025, the global AI market valuation is expected to reach USD 243.70 billion out of which the US holds the highest share with a market worth USD 66.21 billion.
Fortune Business Insights reports Open AI attracted the highest amount of funding in 2023 across the globe. Anthropic and Scale by AI come in second and third, however Open AI leads by a significant margin. These statistics clearly show that Generative AI is leading the AI industry and attracting the most investment with Chat GPT leading the way.
AI applications are growing at an unprecedented rate. In February of 2023, IBM created a supercomputer designed specifically to train the company’s many AI models. Fortune Business Insight’s report also highlights Quantum AI as showing the most potential and is growing in popularity. The applications of Quantum AI are vast and can allow for better and more accurate prediction for climate change, improve risk evaluation, enhance development of new drugs, and more.
Hiring trends in AI
The rise in the use of AI in the hiring process has massively increased employment opportunities for skilled AI professionals. Forbes reports that there has been an over 320% increase in AI talent hiring in the last 8 years. While previously, the focus was on hiring technical AI talent, an increasing number of employers now seek professionals with AI knowledge and non-technical skills.
The ideal preferred qualification for entry-level roles in AI is a bachelor’s degree in AI or in a relevant field. You can also pursue a bachelor’s degree in computer science, Software Engineering, Data Science, and more with an AI major. Make sure you research the required professional skills and competencies as per your career aspirations and choose a program accordingly.
Basic skills in AI that employers seek include prompt engineering, data literacy, and machine learning. The report by Forbes also highlights that employers give precedence to job applicants with AI skills over those with higher work experience and no AI skills.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about degrees in AI.
People interested in AI as a profession also ask the following questions.
What level of education is required for artificial intelligence?
To pursue a career in artificial intelligence, a bachelor’s AI degree is the ideal entry-level qualification. With a bachelor’s degree, you become eligible for a comprehensive range of computer and IT occupations. However, the exact education and skills required will vary on your career aspirations.
If you want to pursue robotics engineering, a degree in mechanical, or electrical engineering with a major in AI is the ideal educational qualification. Those who want to go into interface design can pursue a degree in digital design with a major or minor in AI. Make sure you seek expert degree advice before you enroll in a program.
Is artificial intelligence a good degree?
An artificial intelligence degree is an excellent program to pursue. It equips students with a range of in-demand skills and competencies making them eligible for a variety of jobs in different industries. In recent years, the demand for AI technical skills has grown exponentially leading to a 323% increase in employment for AI talent in the last 8 years.
Thus, the scope of an AI degree is great, making it an excellent degree to pursue.
What can you do with an artificial intelligence degree?
An AI degree can lead to a variety of job opportunities in a diverse range of industries. In fact, employers across most industries are giving preference to job applicants with non-technical AI skills. With an AI degree, you develop a wide range of technical and professional skills, which lead to exciting career opportunities in the innovative field. These include job roles such as AI Engineer, Data Scientist, Natural Language Processing Engineer, and more.
Enroll in an AI degree and develop in-demand skills for high-paying jobs.
If you want to be part of the skilled professional pool that is in high demand, an AI degree is the ideal program for you. Through a bachelor’s degree in the field, you will develop a wide range of competencies and skills such as programming, natural language processing, machine learning, and more. After graduating with a degree in Artificial Intelligence, you can pursue many high-paying career opportunities.
With all Bachelor Degrees, you can access many educational resources to help you on your college planning journey. From comprehensive educational guides to AI tools, the platform has much to offer.