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Accelerating Your Master’s Degree in AI
This guide introduces 21 of the Fastest Master’s in Artificial Intelligence Degrees in the USA, directing you toward accelerated AI programs that can be completed in as few as 8-12 months. You might be ready for graduate-level training in advanced AI computing or AI & data science. Or you could prioritize work in areas such as AI in business, human-centered AI, or AI in medicine.
Time is money in the world of artificial intelligence. Not everyone can commit to a two-year master’s program, especially given the current demand for AI-related skills. Our list of streamlined degree paths will help you capitalize on career opportunities and competitively apply for in-demand jobs within a year or less.
All of the schools featured below are non-profit, regionally accredited institutions with solid reputations. Universities are listed in alphabetical order.
Fastest Master’s in Artificial Intelligence Programs in the USA
Arizona State University – Tempe, AZ
Master of Science in Artificial Intelligence in Business (MS-AIB)
- Fastest Program Length: 8 Months
- Credits: 30
- Delivery: On-Campus (In Person) or Online
ASU’s W.P. Carey School of Business offers a two-semester, on-campus Master of Science in Artificial Intelligence in Business (MS-AIB), which examines the overlap between traditional business concepts, AI, and machine learning.
Beyond learning how to support business objectives by manipulating ML models, you may also add a custom summer track and extend your plan of study to 12 months/three semesters. The online version of this degree would take 18-24 months.
MS-AIB students who opt for the custom summer track could choose to focus on financial technology, with courses in areas such as AI and machine learning applications in finance. Other summer tracks include supply chain management, marketing, accounting, and tech management & consulting.
Campbellsville University – Campbellsville, KY
Online Master of Science (MS) in Data Science and Artificial Intelligence
- Program Length: 12 Months
- Credits: 36
- Delivery: Online
Offered by a Christian school in Kentucky, Campbellsville University’s Online Master of Science (MS) in Data Science and Artificial Intelligence is a 12-course, 100% online program that can be completed in as few as 12 months (4 courses per semester).
This AI degree features a fixed plan of study that starts with foundations in AI & machine learning, big data analytics, and data mining & warehousing. It then moves into topics such as AI applications, AI and the global supply chain, blockchain technology, and digital forensics. You’ll finish the program with a business-focused big data & AI capstone project.
Carnegie Mellon University – Pittsburgh, PA
Master of Science (MS) in Artificial Intelligence Systems Management (AIM)
- Program Length: 12 Months
- Credits: 144 Units
- Delivery: On-Campus (In Person)
With a little dedication, Carnegie Mellon University’s Master of Science (MS) in Artificial Intelligence Systems Management (AIM) from the Heinz College can be completed in 12 months. CMU is one of the top schools in the USA for artificial intelligence and often features in our top 3 of best master’s in AI rankings.
This rigorous 3-semester program is split into five categories: data fundamentals, business & strategy, AI core, AI applications, and electives. You’ll receive training in Python, machine learning technologies, AI strategy and financial evaluation, AI model development, generative AI, agentic technologies, and a lot more.
It finishes with a team-based AI capstone project where students act as consultants for industry & government clients.
Duke University – Durham, NC
Master of Engineering (MEng) in Applied AI for Product Innovation (AIPI)
- Fastest Program Length: 12 Months
- Credits: 30
- Delivery: On-Campus (In Person) or Online
At Duke, you can finish the on-campus Master of Engineering (MEng) in Applied AI for Product Innovation (AIPI) in 12 months (accelerated) or 16 months (standard). The online version takes 24 months of part-time study.
The MEng curriculum consists of ten courses — seven technical and three product development courses — plus a capstone project that jump-starts your portfolio. Besides the semester-long capstone industry project, you can also intern over the summer or complete a second industry project.
In addition to this accelerated master’s degree in AI, Duke also offers an Online Graduate Certificate in AI Foundations for Product Innovation and a 4+1: Bachelor’s + Master’s Program.
Eastern University – Philadelphia, PA
Online Master of Science (MS) in Applied Artificial Intelligence
- Fastest Program Length: 10 Months
- Credits: 33
- Delivery: Online
Eastern University’s highly affordable Online Master of Science (MS) in Applied Artificial Intelligence is one of the quickest online AI programs in our list, with a total completion time of 10 months/2.5 semesters. This would involve completing 2 courses per 7-week session.
The curriculum has a data science flavor. You’ll be expected to tackle mandatory courses in AI, foundations of machine learning models, and applied data science. But you can also explore electives in areas such as NLP, AI solutions in the Cloud, and applied ML. The degree culminates in a 100% custom AI project.
Georgetown University – Washington, DC
Online Master of Professional Studies (MPS) in Artificial Intelligence Management
- Fastest Program Length: 12 Months
- Credits: 30
- Delivery: Online
With a full-time commitment, you can complete all 10 courses in Georgetown’s Online Master of Professional Studies (MPS) in Artificial Intelligence Management in one year. However, part-time study is also an option.
The 30-credit curriculum features six required courses, including work in ethical AI, AI strategy, AI governance & compliance, and a capstone project. For the capstone, you will work closely with a faculty member to apply your newfound knowledge to real-world applications.
To round out the curriculum, you can choose four remaining classes from two focus areas: AI Strategy & Leadership or AI Development & Integration.
Johns Hopkins University – Baltimore, MD
Master of Science (MS) in Business Analytics and Artificial Intelligence
- Fastest Program Length: 12 Months
- Credits: 36
- Delivery: On-Campus (In Person) or Online
On a full-time schedule, Johns Hopkins University’s 36-credit Master of Science (MS) in Business Analytics and Artificial Intelligence takes 12 months to complete. A 30-credit, two-year part-time online program is also available.
The 22-credit core addresses three main areas — business foundations, business analytics, and STEM courses — with an overarching focus on leadership. You’ll gain the skills necessary to respond to real-world issues through business analytics and preferred AI methodologies (e.g. practical machine learning).
Once you reach the level of electives, you can explore more advanced topics such as generative AI, large scale computing on the Cloud, AI essentials for business, and responsible AI. The degree culminates in an analytics consulting project.
Lindenwood University – St. Charles, MO
Online Master of Arts (MA) in Human-Centered Artificial Intelligence
- Fastest Program Length: 12 Months
- Credits: 30
- Delivery: Online
Lindenwood University’s affordable Online Master of Arts (MA) in Human-Centered Artificial Intelligence is an accelerated program designed for non-technical professionals who wish to apply AI tools & technologies in their own fields. It takes 12 months to complete on a full-time plan of study.
No prior experience in advanced mathematics or AI is required. The 30-credit curriculum involves training in the ethics of AI, coding & scripting with generative AI, AI for skill development, advanced research & writing with AI, and human-AI collaboration. The final requirement is a non-thesis applied project or a traditional thesis.
Morgan State University – Baltimore, MD
Master of Science (MS) in Advanced Computing
- Fastest Program Length: 12 Months
- Credits: 30
- Delivery: On-Campus (In Person) or Online
Morgan State University’s Master of Science (MS) in Advanced Computing is available in an on-campus or online format. For this 30-credit-hour degree, you can choose between a coursework-only plan of study, a master’s project, or a thesis. The coursework-only and project tracks can be polished off in a 12-month plan of study; the thesis track requires 16 months to complete.
The primary curriculum consists of 10 courses total, comprising four core courses and six electives. Core courses include cybersecurity, data science & artificial intelligence, network security, and secure Cloud computing. Elective courses include design & analysis of algorithms, deep learning in the Cloud, software engineering, and security topics.
Northwestern University – Evanston, IL
Accelerated Master of Science in Data Science (MSDS) — Artificial Intelligence
- Fastest Program Length: 12 Months
- Credits: 36
- Delivery: Hybrid or Online
Each quarter of Northwestern’s 12-month Accelerated Master of Science in Data Science (MSDS) – Artificial Intelligence consists of two on-campus classes and one online course for a blended attendance (3 courses per quarter). If hybrid learning is impossible, the part-time 100% online program takes two years to complete.
The MSDS curriculum focuses on business strategy and data science, with five available specializations, including Artificial Intelligence. You’ll acquire proficiency in three programming languages (Python, Go, and R) while also benefiting from interactions with professors and colleagues, networking events, and an immersion week.
Northwestern University – Evanston, IL
Master of Science in Artificial Intelligence (MSAI)+X
- Fastest Program Length: 12 Months
- Credits: 16 Units (Incl. Bootcamp)
- Delivery: On-Campus (In Person)
Northwestern University’s accelerated 12-month AI master’s degree program — MSAI+X — is designed for folks who already possess an advanced degree (e.g. MD, PhD or JD) and want to learn about and implement AI in their chosen field.
You’ll attend an on-campus summer bootcamp to build a foundation in programming and math before studying the interaction between business and AI through world-class research. The capstone project will give you the opportunity to connect and collaborate with industry partners.
Folks without an advanced degree can explore the full-time 15-month traditional track.
Nova Southeastern University – Fort Lauderdale, FL
Master of Science in Artificial Intelligence (MS in AI)
- Fastest Program Length: 12 Months
- Credits: 30
- Delivery: On-Campus (In Person) or Online
Nova Southeastern University’s Master of Science in Artificial Intelligence (MS in AI) is an efficient 30-credit, 10-course program that can be earned in 12 months. It’s the first in a line of one-year AI programs from the College of Computing, AI, and Cybersecurity.
The coursework-only curriculum features 18 core courses in areas like algorithms, data mining, data analytics, AI, software engineering, and deep learning. For the additional 12 credits, you can opt for a concentration in cybersecurity or data science or choose a no-concentration option where you can mix & match electives.
Nova Southeastern University – Fort Lauderdale, FL
Master of Science (MS) in Artificial Intelligence Cybersecurity
- Fastest Program Length: 12 Months
- Credits: 30
- Delivery: On-Campus (In Person) or Online
Unlike the broader MS in AI, Nova Southeastern University’s Master of Science (MS) in Artificial Intelligence Cybersecurity focuses explicitly on cyber AI. But it’s built in exactly the same way, with 10 courses that can be completed in 12 months on a full-time plan of study.
This degree features a fixed curriculum that launches students immediately into topics such as computer networks, cybersecurity fundamentals, database security, advanced network security, and information system auditing. You’ll also receive training in AI, data analytics, and deep learning. All students complete a final AI cybersecurity project.
Nova Southeastern University – Fort Lauderdale, FL
Master of Science (MS) in Data Analytics and Artificial Intelligence
- Fastest Program Length: 12 Months
- Credits: 30
- Delivery: On-Campus (In Person) or Online
You’ll only have to complete 30 credit hours’ worth of eight-week courses in order to earn Nova Southeastern University’s Master of Science (MS) in Data Analytics and Artificial Intelligence in a single year. This program focuses heavily on data analytics & AI, so it’s designed for those comfortable manipulating numbers and confident in their math skills.
The core of the curriculum revolves around analytics fundamentals, with credits in areas like data mining, warehousing, visualization, and programming. However, there is a course in data analytics & AI and electives in deep learning and interaction design. You’ll tackle a data analytics and AI project before you graduate.
Syracuse University – Syracuse, NY
Master of Science (MS) in Applied Human-Centered Artificial Intelligence
- Fastest Program Length: 12 Months
- Credits: 31
- Delivery: On-Campus (In Person)
On a full-time plan of study, Syracuse University’s Master of Science (MS) in Applied Human-Centered Artificial Intelligence can be completed in as little as one year. You would need to work through the summer and Winterlude.
The curriculum consists of 31 credit hours, with 21 credits in the primary core and 9 courses in the secondary core/concentration. The primary core launches straight into areas such as NLP, human-centered AI applications, and deep learning. For the secondary core, you can opt to focus on data science or cloud computing. Or you can design your own concentration.
In addition, Syracuse will expect you to submit a 1-credit professional portfolio to receive your degree. You may even wish to collaborate with your professors on their projects or join a research lab to augment your résumé.
University of Arizona – Tucson, AZ
Online Master of Science in Artificial Intelligence for Business (MS-AIB)
- Fastest Program Length: 12 Months
- Credits: 30
- Delivery: Online
The University of Arizona’s 30-credit Online Master of Science in Artificial Intelligence for Business (MS-AIB) is designed for speed, with 7-week courses and asynchronous online delivery. Take 2 courses each 7-week term and you can complete all 10 courses in 12 months.
You’ll begin with training in AI fundamentals such as data mining & machine learning, generative AI for business, deep learning, and big data technologies. But you’ll also be required to complete at least 2 special topics AI courses in specific domains—business intelligence, cybersecurity, healthcare, or digital platforms—and electives.
University of California, Los Angeles – Los Angeles, CA
Master of Engineering (MEng) in Artificial Intelligence
- Fastest Program Length: 12 Months
- Credits: 36
- Delivery: On-Campus (In Person)
UCLA’s professional Master of Engineering (MEng) in Artificial Intelligence is the brainchild of the Samueli School of Engineering and led by Professor Guy Van den Broeck. It’s an interdisciplinary, one-year AI degree that focuses on technical management skills, emerging research, and industry applications.
You’ll complete 20 units in the AI core, including courses in NLP, algorithms, and automated reasoning. This work will be supplemented by 12 credits of electives in engineering professional development topics (e.g. financial management) and a team-based capstone project in the summer semester.
University of Illinois Chicago – Chicago, IL
Online Master of Engineering (MEng) — Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning
- Fastest Program Length: 12 Months
- Credits: 36
- Delivery: Online
The University of Illinois Chicago’s Online Master of Engineering (MEng) – Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning is a one-year, 100% online program. It instructs MEng students on how to build applications integrating AI and ML and explore the ethics related to these applications.
The curriculum consists of 36 credit hours spread across eight-week terms throughout the year. Of the nine required courses, AI-specific courses include math fundamentals for AI engineers and data scientists, AI, machine learning, deep learning, image analysis & computer vision, and NLP.
University of Louisville – Louisville, KY
Online Master of Science in Artificial Intelligence in Medicine (MS AIM)
- Fastest Program Length: 12 Months
- Credits: 30
- Delivery: Online
The University of Louisville’s one-year Online Master of Science in Artificial Intelligence in Medicine (MS AIM) requires 10 courses for a total of 30 credit hours. If you wish to complete the 100% online degree program in 12 months, you must take four courses each fall and spring semester plus two over the summer.
The MS AIM curriculum focuses on implementing AI to improve patient care and using machine learning to improve healthcare research. In addition to receiving fundamental training in data mining, medical image computing, and biostatistics, you can explore machine learning in medicine, AI in bioengineering, artificial intelligence and radiomics, and AI techniques in digital pathology.
University of South Florida – Tampa, FL
Master of Science (MS) in Artificial Intelligence and Business Analytics
- Fastest Program Length: 12 Months
- Credits: 33
- Delivery: On-Campus (In Person) or Online
Despite the high number of annual applicants, the University of South Florida only admits approximately 250 students to the Master of Science (MS) in Artificial Intelligence and Business Analytics each year.
On a full-time plan of study, you must complete six core courses (15 credits), five elective courses (15 credits), and a capstone (3 credits) to graduate within a year of acceptance. Once you have gone through two semesters, you can apply for various internships to gain real-world experience. Part-time plans are also available.
Unable to travel to Florida? USF also offers a 12-month Global Online Master of Science in Artificial Intelligence and Business Analytics to working professionals in Europe, Asia, and the USA.
University of the Cumberlands – Williamsburg, KY
Executive Master’s in Artificial Intelligence
- Fastest Program Length: 12 Months
- Credits: 31
- Delivery: Hybrid with One Residency Session Per Semester
The University of the Cumberlands’s 12-month Executive Master’s in Artificial Intelligence focuses on the application of AI in multiple industries, including healthcare and risk management.
The bulk of the curriculum is devoted to AI topics such as NLP, neural networks and deep learning, generative AI with LLMs, and AI for human-computer interaction.
During each semester of this hybrid program, you’ll complete three courses – two AI topics and an applied learning practicum – and visit the campus for an intensive residency weekend. The practicum will allow you to apply what you’ve learned in that semester through work or internships.
University of Wisconsin–Madison – Madison, WI
Master of Science (MS) in Electrical & Computer Engineering (ECE): Machine Learning & Signal Processing
- Fastest Program Length: 12 Months
- Credits: 30
- Delivery: On-Campus (In Person)
At its fastest pace, the University of Wisconsin–Madison’s accelerated Master of Science (MS) in Electrical & Computer Engineering (ECE): Machine Learning & Signal Processing takes 12 months to complete. A 16-month plan of study is also available.
You must complete a required seminar and at least one course in machine learning and one course in signal processing. But after that, you’ll have the freedom to select electives in other relevant coursework (e.g. matrix methods in ML, artificial neural networks, etc.). You’ll also be able to tackle an internship/co-op or an independent project for your final capstone.
Explore UW-Madison’s MS in ECE: Machine Learning & Signal Processing
Western Governors University – Millcreek, UT
Online Master of Science in Computer Science (MSCS) – AI and Machine Learning
- Fastest Program Length: Self-Paced
- Credits: 10 Courses
- Delivery: Online
If you really wish to get through an AI degree quickly, Western Governors University’s self-paced Online Master of Science in Computer Science (MSCS) – AI and Machine Learning may be the perfect solution.
Once you have demonstrated mastery of the course material and passed assessments, you can move forward. The minimum term required is 6 months.
The curriculum consists of 10 courses that are split fairly evenly between computer science breadth credits (e.g. computer architecture and systems) and artificial intelligence topics. You’ll explore AI and machine learning foundations, advanced AI and machine learning for computer scientists, deep learning, and NLP.
Methodology: How We Identified the Fastest Master’s in AI Programs
Here’s how we compiled our list of accelerated master’s programs in AI & ML:
- Time to Completion: The quickest master’s in AI degree programs can be completed in as little as 12 months. Two semesters is the shortest time required to earn an artificial intelligence graduate degree on a traditional semester schedule. Western Governors University also offers a self-paced program.
- Program Focus: For our Fastest list, programs are limited to master’s degrees in artificial intelligence and machine learning, or similar fields with an AI or a ML concentration. (Remember that you could also consider customizing an accelerated Master of Science in Computer Science with AI electives.)
- Attendance Requirements: Many of the master’s in AI degree programs on our Fastest list require on-campus attendance, but some offer the flexibility and option of online instruction. Certain programs are available in both types of delivery.
One-Year Master’s in AI FAQ
Which School Offers the Fastest Master’s in Artificial Intelligence Program?
The fastest traditional AI degree in our list is Arizona State University’s on-campus Master of Science in Artificial Intelligence in Business, which can be completed in two semesters (if you forgo the custom summer track).
The quickest non-traditional AI degree in our list is Western Governor University’s self-paced Online Master of Science in Computer Science (MSCS) – AI and Machine Learning. As long as you pass the assessments and are able to demonstrate mastery of the coursework, you can finish it as quickly as you wish.
How Does a One-Year Master’s in AI Compare to a Traditional Two-Year Program?
At some universities, a one-year master’s in AI program is simply a full-time version of their normal part-time, two-year program. Instead of taking 2 courses per semester, you’re taking 3-4 courses per semester. The coursework remains the same for all students.
But there are exceptions. For example:
- At Northwestern, the 12-month version of its master’s program—the MSAI+X—is only open to candidates with an advanced degree (e.g. PhD, MD, or JD) who want to use AI in their professions.
- Universities like UCLA offer a traditional, two-year MSCS for students who are interested in research & PhD work and a professional, one-year MEng for career-minded applicants.
I’m a Recent BS Graduate – Is an Accelerated Master’s in AI Worth It?
The general rule of thumb is that employers will prioritize a candidate with a BS and 2-3 years of solid work experience over a BS/MS student with little to no exposure to real-world issues. Even if you are not working in an AI-specific job after graduation, you can still amass project experience & certifications while you’re pulling in a steady income. Then you can talk to your employer about tuition reimbursement for a part-time master’s degree.
However, if you’re finding it difficult to secure a job with a BS and you have the funds or scholarships for a master’s degree, then we say go for it. An MS is a requirement for certain AI positions, especially at major tech companies. Just remember to incorporate as many industry projects, internships, and AI practicums as you can in your plan of study. And try to get into top-tier schools (see our Best rankings for ideas).
Are Accelerated AI Master’s Programs STEM-Designated?
In the case of on-campus AI master’s programs, the answer is almost always going to be yes. Earning a STEM-designated degree means that international students with an F-1 visa can apply for a 24-month extension on their post-completion optional practical training (STEM OPT Extension).
Overseas students who enroll in a 100% online master’s program aren’t eligible for an F-1 visa. (The visa is only available to those who travel to the States for full-time study). Hybrid programs may be STEM-designated. When in doubt, ask the program coordinator.
Can I Complete a One-Year AI Master’s Program While Working Full-Time?
It’s going to be very difficult to complete a one-year master’s in artificial intelligence while working full-time. In a 30-credit master’s program, full-time study means that you must complete at least three courses per semester. Many of the 12-month degrees in our list also have an intensive final project and/or an internship option. That’s a big commitment.
If you are working, we recommend you opt for part-time study or special programs like USF’s Global Online MS in AI & Business Analytics. There are plenty of well-respected online and hybrid master’s programs in AI now available.
Do Accelerated AI Master’s Programs Cost More or Less Than Traditional Programs?
The price of a master’s degree in AI is more about the school than the length of the program. Big-name private universities like Duke and Stanford typically have very high tuition prices. Public universities like Georgia Tech and UT Austin have some of the cheapest rates in the country for their online AI programs, but these degrees are longer than 12 months.
Ask the program coordinator for a sample budget before applying. You shouldn’t expect an accelerated master’s degree in AI to be cheaper than a traditional program.
Can I Pursue a One-Year AI Master’s Program Online?
Yes, you can pursue a one-year master’s in AI online. Look for the word “Online” in our bullet point on Delivery. Just keep in mind that some schools will offer an accelerated on-campus program that takes 12 months to complete and a longer, part-time online option that might stretch to two years or more (e.g. Duke University and Northwestern University).
Are There Any Drawbacks to One-Year Master’s in AI Programs?
There are a few drawbacks to a one-year master’s degree in AI.
- Some students who go through one-year programs find themselves getting frustrated with beginner’s-level coursework and wondering why they gave up so much money & time for an irrelevant qualification.
- Students in challenging 12-month AI programs can quickly find that they’re unable to keep up with high-level computing and research courses.
Our best advice here is to talk to recent alumni and ask the program coordinator for a class profile (e.g. average years of work experience, undergraduate major, current job title, etc.). Anyone who has been through a one-year program can tell you how they structured their weeks and where they felt the crunch!
