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MS in Artificial Intelligence

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In American University's Master of Science in Artificial Intelligence, you'll develop the mathematical and computational expertise to design, build, and evaluate next-generation AI systems. Whether your goal is an AI career or doctoral study, you'll move beyond using AI tools to understanding—and creating—them.

As artificial intelligence transforms nearly every industry, organizations need professionals who understand not only how AI works, but how to develop systems that are reliable, responsible, and ready for real-world challenges. Our interdisciplinary program combines computer science, mathematics, statistics, and responsible AI to prepare graduates to design, evaluate, and improve intelligent systems.
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At a Glance

  • Mode of Study
    On campus, integrated coursework, computational research, and AI-driven scientific inquiry
  • Time to Complete / Requirements
    30 credits (includes research). Students can be full or part time.
  • Tuition and Funding
    $2163 per credit. All applicants automatically considered for merit scholarships. Visit Tuition and Funding.
  • Admissions
    Start in fall or spring. Visit Admission and Requirements.

Build AI, Not Just Use It

Go beyond using existing AI tools. Learn the mathematics, statistics, and machine learning that power modern artificial intelligence—and gain the expertise to design, evaluate, and improve the next generation of AI systems. 
 
 

Shape AI Responsibly

Explore the ethical, societal, environmental, and technical dimensions of artificial intelligence while learning to design systems that are reliable, transparent, and trustworthy. 
 

 

DC Career Launch

Washington, DC, is one of the nation’s leading AI hubs, bringing together federal agencies, research labs, tech companies, nonprofits, and policy organizations. At AU, you'll find unparalleled opportunities for internships, research, and careers at the forefront of AI.

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Curriculum

The 30-credit Master of Science in Artificial Intelligence combines a rigorous AI core, specialized coursework, and a flexible capstone experience. Students develop advanced technical expertise while exploring mathematical foundations, emerging applications, and responsible development of artificial intelligence.

Build Your Foundation (15 Credits)

Build a strong foundation in artificial intelligence, statistical machine learning, neural networks and deep learning, big data computing, and responsible AI. Core topics include machine learning, deep learning, generative AI, large language models, responsible AI, and high-performance computing.

Choose Your AI Pathway (9 Credits)

  • Mathematical Foundations of AI: Develop the mathematical, statistical, and computational foundations needed to understand, evaluate, and advance modern AI systems.
  • AI Methods and Advanced Applications: Develop advanced technical expertise in emerging AI systems, architectures, and applications.

Capstone and Research Experience (6 Credits)

Complete your degree through an applied AI project, research thesis, or approved internship while applying advanced AI methods to real-world challenges. 

Students interested in doctoral study have opportunities to engage with faculty research while preparing for advanced graduate study in artificial intelligence, computer science, mathematics, statistics, engineering, and related disciplines. 

Visit our MS Admission & Course Requirements page for complete curriculum details and course descriptions.

Spotlight: Professor Zois Boukouvalas

Zois Boukouvalas.


“Artificial intelligence is much more than learning how to use today's tools. Our students learn the mathematics, statistics, and computational principles that make AI work. That foundation enables them not only to build intelligent systems, but to critically evaluate, improve, and responsibly shape the future of AI.”

—Zois Boukouvalas, Professor of Mathematics and Statistics and Inaugural Director of MS in Artificial Intelligence, co-author of Machine Learning Evaluation: Towards Reliable and Responsible AI (Cambridge UP)

What You'll Walk Away With

When you graduate, you'll be prepared to

  • Design, apply, and evaluate advanced artificial intelligence and machine learning systems.
  • Apply mathematical, statistical, and computational methods to solve complex AI challenges.
  • Develop and work with modern AI technologies, including deep learning, generative AI, large language models, computer vision, and natural language processing.
  • Evaluate AI systems for reliability, bias, uncertainty, and performance while developing responsible and trustworthy AI solutions.
  • Apply scalable computing techniques to train and deploy advanced AI models.
  • Communicate AI concepts and results effectively to both technical and nontechnical audiences.
  • Consider the ethical, societal, environmental, and sustainability impacts of artificial intelligence.
  • Conduct research or applied AI projects that prepare you for advanced careers or doctoral study.

Careers and Research

Demand for professionals with advanced AI expertise continues to grow across industries, from healthcare and finance to national security, technology, and scientific research. According to the World Economic Forum, AI and machine learning specialists remain among the fastest-growing occupations worldwide.

Graduates of the Master of Science in Artificial Intelligence will be prepared for advanced careers in areas such as

  • AI & Machine Learning Engineer
  • AI Research Scientist
  • Natural Language Processing & Computer Vision Engineer
  • Data Scientist & Computational Scientist
  • Responsible AI & AI Policy Specialist
  • AI Technical Consultant

Why Choose American University? 

  • Rigorous mathematical and computational foundation
  • Interdisciplinary curriculum spanning computer science, mathematics, statistics, and ethics
  • Responsible AI integrated throughout the program—not as an afterthought
  • Flexible capstone through research, industry projects, or internships
  • Faculty actively conducting research in modern AI
  • Located in Washington, DC with access to government, industry, and nonprofit organizations
  • Excellent preparation for both AI careers and future doctoral study

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