Student interest in earning an online Master’s in Artificial Intelligence is rapidly growing, but many are ultimately deterred by exorbitant sticker prices at big name universities. There’s good news for the aspiring AI student on a budget: universities around the country are launching reputable AI graduate programs at affordable prices with the goal of recruiting students who are serious about their ROI in AI education.
This is your ultimate guide to the schools that offer an affordable online Master’s in AI. Our team manually researched costs and credit requirements, crunched the numbers, and sorted every online Master’s in Artificial Intelligence by its total program cost. You won’t find expensive AI programs with a sticker price of $50,000+ here. Instead, you’ll learn about the 15 most affordable online Master’s in AI, ranging from $9,765 to $30,804. We profile each school, discuss what makes their AI program affordable, and uncover the unique student experiences that make each program worth the money.
Methodology
Here are the factors we used to determine the most affordable AI degrees, including how we calculated program costs:
- Total Tuition: We started by collecting data on the credits required to graduate and the cost-per-credit rate. We then multiplied these figures for an estimated total program price, and applied this process to all schools, even those that advertise a total program price on their website.
- Tuition Type: Tuition rate can differ based on a student studying in state versus out of state. And some schools have a separate cost-per-credit rate for online students. So that our readers aren’t limited by location, we used the online student rate or out-of-state rate rather than in-state tuition. You may be able to find lower tuition rates at an in-state AI program. If this appeals to you, browse AI programs by state.
- Program Focus: We only considered programs in artificial intelligence, or related degrees with AI tracks. That means we didn’t include machine learning programs, which we cover elsewhere.
- Online Status: Programs must be 100% online, or mostly online, with minimal on-campus requirements.
- Accreditation: Programs must hold appropriate regional accreditation in order to be considered.
- University Type: While nearly every affordable AI program on this list is offered by a nonprofit university, it is not a requirement for inclusion.
2023’s Most Affordable Online Master’s in AI
The tuition figures below were manually collected and calculated by our team. “Program Price” represents the estimated total price of the university’s online Master’s in Artificial Intelligence program. You can learn more about the specific university’s affordable online AI master’s program by clicking “Program Profile.”
| Rank | School | Learn More | Program Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| #1 | University of the Cumberlands | Progam Profile | $9,765 |
| #2 | University of Texas at Austin | Progam Profile | $10,000 |
| #3 | Arkansas State University | Progam Profile | $10,923 |
| #4 | Colorado State University-Global Campus | Progam Profile | $15,000 |
| #5 | University of Maine | Progam Profile | $17,700 |
| #6 | Texas A & M University-Commerce | Progam Profile | $24,470 |
| #7 | Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota | Progam Profile | $25,080 |
| #8 | Maryville University | Progam Profile | $25,245 |
| #9 | Columbus State University | Progam Profile | $26,228 |
| #10 | University of San Diego | Progam Profile | $27,750 |
| #11 | Nova Southeastern University | Progam Profile | $28,500 |
| #12 | Davenport University | Progam Profile | $28,770 |
| #13 | University of Wisconsin – Milwaukee | Progam Profile | $28,923 |
| #14 | Kettering University | Progam Profile | $29,640 |
| #15 | Florida Atlantic University | Progam Profile | $30,804 |
1. University of the Cumberlands
Online Master’s in Artificial Intelligence in Business
- Total Program Cost: $9,765
- Cost Per Credit: $315
- Credits: 31
University of the Cumberlands is the most affordable AI program in the country, delivering a 31-unit Master of Science in AI in Business with a tuition of only $9,765. Because artificial intelligence is in such high demand, in both business and security fields, graduates of UC will almost assuredly see a significant return on their investment.
Program Highlights
University of the Cumberlands is one of only three Kentucky universities to earn the coveted distinction as a National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense (CAE-CD) by the National Security Agency (NSA) and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS).
Students learn AI best practices geared toward business, preparing graduates for leadership positions in top corporations. Coursework includes the application of AI in financial services, healthcare, and risk management, culminating in a capstone course that allows students to apply their knowledge to complete a business-related project or academic paper of their choosing.
2. University of Texas at Austin
Master of Science in Artificial Intelligence
- Total Program Cost: $10,000
- Program Launch: 2024
Students at University of Texas at Austin have the opportunity to learn at one of the US News & World Report’s Top 50 Public Schools at a remarkably affordable price. With a total program cost of $10,000, the UT-Austin Master of Science in Artificial Intelligence is a smart investment for both recent graduates and experienced career professionals.
Program Highlights
The Master of Science in Artificial Intelligence is a fully online graduate program delivered in partnership with edX, one of the world’s largest providers of flexible, online courses. The comprehensive graduate degree is geared toward working professionals who want to take their skills to the next level while continuing to advance their careers.
UT-Austin coursework includes Ethics of Artificial Intelligence, Deep Learning, and Natural Language Processing—topics designed to engage students and lead to advanced innovation and problem solving.
3. Arkansas State University
Master of Science in Applied Digital Technology with a Concentration in Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning
- Total Program Cost: $10,923
- Cost Per Credit: $331
- Credits: 33
- Program Length: 12 Months
At Arkansas State University, students can earn a Master of Science in Applied Digital Technology, specializing in artificial intelligence and machine learning. The 33-unit graduate program can be completed in as little as 12 months, with an affordable tuition cost of $10,923.
Program Highlights
Taught through the Neil Griffin College of Business, the MS in Applied Digital Technology combines the best of technology and business principles, allowing graduates to move into leadership positions in their careers. Exciting research opportunities are available through A-State’s partnership with AI-Campus, an interactive training program that offers a two-phased research experience, lasting four-months each, in artificial intelligence for graduate students—free of charge.
4. Colorado State University-Global Campus
Master’s in Artificial Intelligence & Machine Learning
- Total Program Cost: $15,000
- Cost Per Credit: $500
- Credits: 30
Colorado State University Global provides a highly ranked Master of Science in Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning with a reasonable tuition cost of $15,000. Committed to supporting student learning while keeping prices affordable, the school is one of the few universities to charge $0 in student fees.
Program Highlights
The CSU Global MS in Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning is affordable, flexible, and well-respected among college ranking programs. Their 30-unit graduate degree is delivered 100% online and asynchronously, allowing students to progress at their own speed without having to put their careers on hold.
5. University of Maine
M.S. in Data Science and Engineering – Artificial Intelligence (AI) Focus
- Total Program Cost: $17,700
- Cost Per Credit: $590
- Credits: 30
At University of Maine, students can earn an MS in Computer Science with a specialization in artificial intelligence, enjoying a rigorous curriculum and access to leading AI research facilities for a total program cost of $17,700.
Program Highlights
While many students begin the MS in Computer Science with a background in computing and IT, the university recognizes that professionals of all fields are interested in the rapidly growing possibilities surrounding AI. For this reason, they accept students from all degree backgrounds, allowing those without experience in IT to join the graduate track after an intensive one-year computer science primer.
Although the MS in Computer Science includes some theory and classroom instruction, the main focus is on experiential learning and real-world problem solving. Students conduct important research projects at MaineSAIL, a research facility dedicated to software development and artificial intelligence. Several other facilities offer opportunities to conduct research across tech industries.
6. Texas A & M University-Commerce
MS in Computer Science – Artificial Intelligence Track
- Total Program Cost: $24,470
- Cost Per Credit: $815.66
- Credits: 30
- Program Length: 2-3 Years
Texas A&M University-Commerce offers a Master of Science in Computer Science that allows students to focus their coursework and research in artificial intelligence, preparing graduates for careers in network engineering, software development, and more. The program can be completed in two to three years, with both a thesis and non-thesis option available. Total cost for the MS in Computer Science is $24,470.
Program Highlights
The 30-unit thesis track includes focused courses in artificial intelligence, giving students the foundational knowledge and practical skills needed for a dynamic career after graduation. Although the tuition cost is higher than other universities, Texas A&M–Commerce offers a wide range of scholarships to both incoming and continuing graduate students, including the Next Step Scholarship for new students, summer thesis fellowships, and graduate assistantships.
7. Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota
Master’s in Business Intelligence and Data Analytics – Artificial Intelligence
- Total Program Cost: $25,080
- Cost Per Credit: $760
- Credits: 33
- Program Length: 1 Year
Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota offers a Master’s in Business Intelligence and Data Analytics (Artificial Intelligence Certificate), a one-year program that gives students a competitive edge in an evolving job market, with focused coursework in artificial intelligence. The $25,080 tuition includes the opportunity to earn a professional certificate in AI.
Program Highlights
Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota has a unique approach to student achievement and learning. By offering graduate-level certificates that are stackable into their master’s program, Saint Mary’s allows students to focus on the fields that interest them most while preparing them with a wide range of industry knowledge and experience. By the end of the program, students are able to create an end-to-end artificial intelligence-based solution for a real-world problem—a valuable artifact that can be used to prove mastery and earn a new job or promotion after graduation.
8. Maryville University
Online Master of Science in Artificial Intelligence
- Total Program Cost: $25,245
- Cost Per Credit: $765
- Credits: 33
- Program Length: 2 Years
With a Master of Science in Artificial Intelligence degree from Maryville University, graduates will be prepared to enter an industry that has produced some of the fastest-growing jobs in the nation. The tuition cost is $25,245, although that total can be adjusted due to Maryville’s transfer-friendly admissions policies.
Program Highlights
Maryville University is committed to growing their AI program and giving students every opportunity to expand their skill sets. Prospective students can apply without GRE scores, and no application fee is charged. Their program features three different start dates for asynchronous online learning, and students can transfer credits into the program, accelerating their graduation time while reducing tuition costs.
During the two-year program, students gain real-world skills through project-based learning, developing mastery in industry-leading tools including Python, C++, and Google Colaboratory.
9. Columbus State University
MS in Applied Computer Science – AI and Data Science
- Total Program Cost: $26,228
- Cost Per Credit: $874
- Credits: 30
At Columbus State University, students can earn a Master’s in Applied Computer Science with a specialization in artificial intelligence and data science. The program is delivered through the Turner College of Business and the TSYS School of Computer Science, a nationally recognized NSA Center for Academic Excellence. The 30-unit degree can be completed in two years with a tuition cost of $26,228.
Program Highlights
Columbus State University and the TSYS School of Computer Science are well-respected not only for their rigorous curriculum but for continued partnerships with local and regional business leaders, offering students unprecedented access to state-of-the-art technology and research opportunities.
The MS in Applied Computer Science is led by program chair Dr. Shamim Khan, an authority in artificial intelligence with over 35 published research papers. In addition to his teaching and program chair duties, Dr. Khan was also the principal investigator in a $1.5M DoD contract awarded to Columbus State in 2011.
10. University of San Diego
Master of Science in Applied Artificial Intelligence
- Total Program Cost: $27,750
- Cost Per Credit: $925
- Credits: 30
- Program Length: 20 Months
University of San Diego is a private, Catholic university that offers an online Master of Science in Applied Artificial Intelligence. They are one of the few schools nationwide that offer a dedicated online master’s program specifically for artificial intelligence, preparing graduates to enter careers such as AI programmers and engineers. The total tuition cost is $27,750, and the program is designed to be completed in 20 months.
Program Highlights
University of San Diego offers a rigorous yet flexible graduate degree track that is taught in a series of 7-week courses. Practical learning across a broad range of AI topics is emphasized in its curriculum with input from an Industry Advisory Board, their expert faculty, and a range of business and technology leaders in the greater San Diego area.
A capstone project takes students out of the classroom and allows them to apply their knowledge with one of USD’s corporate partners—a graduation requirement that not only strengthens student learning but gives them vital experience as they embark on a new career.
11. Nova Southeastern University
Master of Science in Computer Science – Artificial Intelligence
- Total Program Cost: $28,500
- Cost Per Credit: $950
- Credits: 30
- Program Length: 1 Year
Nova Southeastern University offers an accelerated graduate-level program that leads to a Master of Science in Computer Science with specialization in artificial intelligence. The tuition cost is $28,500, although the school offers unique financial aid options to help support student learning and program growth.
Program Highlights
Nova Southeastern University’s MS in Computer Science can be completed in only one year, with the 30-unit program being completed in a series of 8-week courses. Nova Southeastern’s degree program has been top-ranked by national leaders including Forbes and US News & World Report, while they are also in the top-5 nationwide for the largest number of minority graduate degree recipients.
Within the artificial intelligence track, students gain hands-on experience through coursework in data mining, artificial intelligence, and interaction design. NSU’s tuition cost of $950 per credit hour is among the highest on the list, but they offer an Employer Tuition Program that can reduce student costs by 20%.
12. Davenport University
Master of Science in Computer Science – Artificial Intelligence
- Total Program Cost: $28,770
- Cost Per Credit: $959
- Credits: 30
Davenport University is one of the most distinguished tech schools in Michigan, earning distinctions from both the NSA and the Department of Homeland Security. The private university offers a Master of Science in Computer Science with a concentration in artificial intelligence that can be completed with 30-credit hours at a tuition cost of $28,770.
Program Highlights
Davenport University’s College of Technology is one of only 14 Michigan schools to be designated a National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense Education, and one of only 16 schools to be named a Center of Digital Forensics Academic Excellence.
The university has a rich history of tech leadership and innovation, and their graduate-level artificial intelligence program is designed for hands-on experience with expert faculty members. Davenport recently received a $4M grant from the National Science Foundation, which is being directed toward scholarships for computer science programs, making this an ideal time for graduate students to join this prestigious university.
13. University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee
MS in Computer Science (Professional Track) – Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, and Natural Language Processing
- Total Program Cost: $28,923
- Cost Per Credit: $933
- Credits: 31
- Program Length: 24 Months
University of Wisconsin–Milwaukee offers an innovative Master of Science in Information Technology Management with a focus on data analytics and artificial intelligence. The total program tuition of $28,923 includes access to premier research facilities and initiatives.
Program Highlights
University of Wisconsin–Milwaukee’s MSITM program is designed to serve three diverse groups of students: (1) those seeking a career change into a STEM field, (2) IT professionals seeking career advancement, and (3) graduate students who are preparing for a PhD program. With such a wide range of students, the University of Wisconsin–Milwaukee degree track offers challenging coursework paired with unique experiential learning opportunities.
Through the Lubar College of Business, students gain access to the Center for Technology Innovation, a remarkable community of faculty, student, and business leaders conducting cutting-edge research in emerging fields. In the CTI, students can participate in the workshop series with nationally recognized speakers, join faculty research projects, or design custom programs for their own educational development.
14. Kettering University
Master of Engineering in Artificial Intelligence
- Total Program Cost: $29,640
- Cost Per Credit: $988
- Credits: 30
Earning a Master of Engineering in Artificial Intelligence is only the beginning for students at Kettering University. Although at first glance, the total tuition cost of $29,640 may seem high, Kettering offers extraordinary opportunities to its students, generating a significant return on that investment.
Program Highlights
Kettering University’s ME in Artificial Intelligence is robust and challenging, but the coursework is only one part of the story. For most students, it is what takes place outside of the classroom that really makes the difference. Kettering students have the opportunity to explore innovation across different industry sectors, with access to the Autonomous Driving and Artificial Intelligence Laboratory, Advanced Mobility, and the Artificial Intelligence of Things Laboratory, as well as the Intelligent Ground Vehicle Competition and student organizations including Autodrive.
Kettering is constantly earning accolades for its achievements in the field of artificial intelligence, with students and faculty winning awards, designing new technology, and earning prestigious research grants.
15. Florida Atlantic University
MS in Artificial Intelligence
- Total Program Cost: $30,804
- Cost Per Credit: $1,026
- Credits: 30
Florida Atlantic University offers a 30-unit Master of Science with Major in Artificial Intelligence, a strong online program with a total tuition of $30,804. FAU allows up to six units of transfer credit, which can help to offset the tuition and accelerate the program.
Program Highlights
Students in FAU’s graduate degree program have access to several research facilities and partner institutions to further their education and career goals. While studying at FAU, graduate students can work at Tech Runway, an innovation and startup incubator, or collaborate with other students, faculty, and researchers at Research Park.
FAU is partnered with the Jupiter Campus, which provides leading education, training, and research opportunities as well as I-SENSE, an FAU research division that is focused on IoT technology and artificial intelligence. With access to so many exceptional research facilities, students have the opportunity not only to learn and develop new ideas but to immediately put them into practice.
