The online Master of Science in Applied Artificial Intelligence program is designed to attract candidates who have some real-world or research experience in their profession and a background in computer engineering, statistics, computer science, data science, information technology, electrical engineering or a related STEM field.
Potential candidates for the University of San Diego’s online master’s degree in applied artificial intelligence include:
Those who possess a bachelor’s degree with strong academic credentials in such majors as statistics, mathematics, data science, computer science, engineering, physics, biological and chemical sciences, healthcare or a related STEM field
Professionals starting their careers in AI who realize they are more interested in practical applications and real-world problem solving
Programmers and engineers who are looking to expand their skills into the realm of artificial intelligence
Candidates who possess real-world or research experience will be best positioned for acceptance into the program. Unless otherwise noted, candidates are required to have or provide the following:
Bachelor’s degree in Software Engineering, Statistics, Computer Science, Data Science, IT, Electrical Engineering or a related STEM field from an accredited institution.
Bachelor’s GPA of 2.75 or higher (official transcripts required)
Candidates with GPA under 2.75 or with degrees from other fields can apply, but will be asked to provide an essay including relevant and convincing explanations of their experience, skills and motivation (guidelines provided on Applications page).
Candidates with GPA under 2.75 are also strongly encouraged to complete a standardized test such as GRE or GMAT.
International applicants/English Language Exam Score
International applicants must submit an official score report from one of the following acceptable English proficiency exams (test scores must be no more than two years old from the time the applicant submits their online application):
For additional details on International Applicant Requirements, please see the separate “Are You an International Applicant?” section of the page.
A personal statement outlining their overall qualifications for the program. Candidates should consider responses to the following questions and prompts:
What are your biggest strengths as a professional (or future professional) in the field of artificial intelligence?
What excites you about AI?
What motivates you to learn AI?
What are your future career goals and how will USD’s MS-AAI program help you achieve them?
Elaborate on your prior industry or research experiences that would strengthen your candidacy for the program.
Elaborate on your academic preparedness for the program by describing your skills and experience in college level calculus, linear algebra and/or statistics, programming in Python, and with GitHub. If you do not possess these skills and experience, you will be asked to please submit an additional one-page summary explaining your strategy for preparation in these areas. For resources to help acquire these skills, see the learning resources at the bottom of this page.
Resume or curriculum vitae
Recommendation letter from candidate’s current supervisor/manager
Or two letters of recommendation from external references for candidates who are unable to obtain a letter of recommendation from a current supervisor.
Optional: Video to allow faculty to get to know you as a candidate. Please limit the video to two minutes.
Applicants are also required to complete an Applied Artificial Intelligence Self-Assessment Test in preparation for the program. Your enrollment adviser will share further details about this self-assessment.
Please note that students who are accepted into USD’s MS in Applied Artificial Intelligence program are required to submit a $289.50 non-refundable deposit. This will ultimately be applied to your first tuition payment, provided you enroll in the program and start your first course.
The process starts with the submission of your online application. You can find additional information and guidance on preparing your application by visiting the Starting Your Application section our main Admissions Requirements page. If you have questions regarding the requirements or any aspect of the application process, please contact an enrollment advisor for assistance.
We strongly encourage you to please contact us at (888) 832-0239 if you are interested in the program but do not meet all of the admissions requirements. Our application review process always includes a holistic look at your experience and background, and we understand that a low undergraduate GPA or lack of professional experience is not necessarily indicative of your potential success in our program.
For further reading and preparation for the MS-AAI program, some suggested resources are listed at the bottom of this page.
Applications for admission are accepted on a rolling basis. A decision will be recommended by the Review Committee within one week of your application being submitted.
PLEASE NOTE: Due to regulations from the Department of Education, the University of San Diego is unable to enroll students in its online degree programs who reside in Alabama, Arkansas, District of Columbia, Georgia, Iowa, Massachusetts, Minnesota, New Hampshire, Rhode Island, and Wisconsin. This restriction does not apply to applicants interested in a campus-based program.
Additional supporting materials may be requested by your enrollment advisor. Please contact your advisor at (888) 832-0239 if you are interested, but do not meet all published admissions requirements.
Priority Deadline
Applying to our master’s program by the priority deadline offers you significant advantages:
Early Consideration: Be among the first to have your application reviewed and receive your admission decision sooner, giving you more time to prepare for your next academic journey.
Increased Admission Chances: Secure your spot in the program while more seats are available, enhancing your chances of acceptance.
Stress-Free Planning: Eliminate the last-minute rush by submitting your application early, allowing you to focus on the next steps.
Showcase Your Commitment: Demonstrate your dedication and preparedness by applying early, making a strong impression on our admissions committee.
Don’t wait—take the first step toward your future today by submitting your application by the priority deadline!
A Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) exam score of 83 or higher.
A course-by-course transcript evaluation and report by one of the following approved agencies. No other transcript evaluation will be accepted for degrees earned outside the U.S.
If you are currently in the U.S. on an F-1 or M-1 student visa, you are not eligible to pursue the online section of our program, per U.S. immigration regulations.
Verify that your country allows access to essential software like VPN or DUO, which is vital for seamless online access during your studies.
At a Glance
Earn your master’s degree online in just 20 months to position yourself for success in the fast-growing field of artificial intelligence.
Do I need an undergraduate degree in science or engineering?
One of the program’s admission requirements is a bachelor’s degree in Software Engineering, Statistics, Computer Science, Data Science, IT, Electrical Engineering or a related STEM field from an accredited institution. Candidates who possess real-world experience or research experience will be best positioned for acceptance into the program.
How many units is my program?
The MS-AAI program is a total of 30 units.
Students will enroll in two prescribed courses each semester for a total of 6 semester units.
Are the University of San Diego’s online master’s degree programs considered full-time or part-time?
All of the University of San Diego’s online graduate degrees provide 6 units per term, making them part-time, or 3/4 time, programs.
How much does the online artificial intelligence master’s degree cost in tuition?
The Master of Science in Applied Artificial Intelligence online program is 30 total credits at $965 per credit, for a total tuition of $28,950.
Please note this covers only the cost of courses; any additional expenses, such as books and other fees, are not included.
Is a GRE or GMAT required for admission?
Candidates who have a GPA above 2.75 are not required to take a GRE or GMAT; however, a standardized test such as GRE or GMAT is recommended for applicants with a GPA under 2.75.
What is the duration of the program?
Designed to be completed in 20 months over five semesters, the program requires students to complete two 7-week-long courses each semester — beginning with two introductory courses — for a total of 30 academic units. The master’s degree you will earn as an online graduate student is of the same quality and rigor as that earned by campus-based students.
What skills and experience are important for success in the Master of Science in Applied Artificial Intelligence program?
Applicants should have some knowledge and experience with Calculus and Linear Algebra. Students will also be expected to have some familiarity with reading and writing computer code.