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Master of Science in Applied Artificial Intelligence
Curriculum
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Leading-Edge AI Curriculum Tailored to the Needs of Industries and Employers
Widely regarded as the next frontier in using complex technology to solve human problems and challenges, artificial intelligence is still evolving and promises to yield both known and unknown innovations in the coming years. High profile applications of AI include self-driving automobiles, robotics, highly sophisticated chatbots and image generators (like LaMDA and DALL-E), but AI is quickly becoming infused into every part of our daily lives and society.
The University of San Diego’s online Master of Science in Applied Artificial Intelligence (MS-AAI) curriculum is designed to equip graduates with the technical strategies and skills they will use to apply powerful analytical tools to real-world applications. The program culminates in a Capstone experience that pairs them with fellow students, instructors, and potential industry partners on an in-depth project that hones their ability to apply their skills in the workplace.
Program graduates will be equipped to:
- Develop technologies within organizations for the deployment of AI-based systems and software for automated decision making.
- Successfully apply principles and techniques of AI such as machine learning, computer vision, and NLP and IoT to tackle problems in industry related to technology, operations, health care, defense, finance, marketing, and corporate development.
- Apply ethical standards and socially responsible practices to the collection, dissemination, and analysis of data for data-driven business decision making.
- Be effective leaders and managers in articulating the value of AI-based systems and software for organizations and corporations.
- Apply AI-based techniques and decision making for solving engineering problems while advancing the social good.
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.
ONLINE APPLIED ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE COURSES
Orientation
| Course | Units |
|---|---|
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This orientation course introduces students to the University of San Diego and provides important information about the program. Throughout … |
0 |
Semester 1
7 weeks per course
| Course | Units |
|---|---|
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This course is an introduction to probability and statistical concepts and their applications in solving real-world problems, as well as an … |
3 |
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Recent advances in big data, computational power, smart homes, and autonomous vehicles have rendered artificial intelligence (AI) as a major… |
3 |
Semester 2
7 weeks per course
| Course | Units |
|---|---|
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Recent advances in smart devices and technologies have enabled cars, smartphones, TVs, refrigerators, and several other devices to be connec… |
3 |
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This course will examine some of the issues and consequences for humanity and our environment of increasing use of Artificial Intelligence (… |
3 |
Semester 3
7 weeks per course
| Course | Units |
|---|---|
|
Machine Learning (ML), as part of Artificial Intelligence, is an interdisciplinary field that combines techniques from learning algorithms a… |
3 |
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Neural networks have enjoyed several waves of popularity over the past half-century. The many applications of neural networks include apps t… |
3 |
Semester 4
7 weeks per course
| Course | Units |
|---|---|
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This course is focused on understanding a variety of ways to represent human language as computational systems and how to exploit those repr… |
3 |
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This course provides an introduction to computer vision. Computer vision uses a combination of traditional AI, machine learning, image proce… |
3 |
Semester 5
7 weeks per course
| Course | Units |
|---|---|
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Interest in and usage of Machine Learning systems has increased dramatically in recent years. More and more innovative products and research… |
3 |
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In this course, students learn how the knowledge and skills acquired in the Master’s program can be directly applied to develop AI-enabled s… |
3 |
Calendars
Students are admitted throughout the year for admission into one of three semesters (Spring, Summer, and Fall). Each semester, two courses are offered, with students focusing intensively on one course at a time – a total of 7 weeks for each course. An academic calendar for the first year follows.
Admission application packets are accepted on a rolling basis. A decision will be recommended by the Review Committee within one week from submission.
Program Development
The MS-AAI program has been developed by artificial intelligence experts and faculty in close collaboration with key industry and government stakeholders to provide in-depth practical and technical training. Overall, the program is designed to position graduates for career success in this exciting and fast-growing field.
All courses in the program are instructor-led and asynchronous, enabling you to work on your assignments on your own schedule while still meeting deadlines. If you are balancing coursework with a full-time job or other time commitments, asynchronous learning offers you a great deal of flexibility. Materials needed for assignments are readily accessible so you can access them and do your classwork when the time is right for you.
The courses are specially designed for online learning with the course content prepared by your professor with input and support from the academic director and the program’s board of advisors. In addition, professors may choose to offer live virtual events such as office hours; however, such events are optional, and all live sessions will be recorded. Attendance during live events is always optional in consideration of students who may not be available during those designated times. Students will interact with their peers asynchronously through weekly discussion posts, and some courses may include practical team projects.
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Frequently Asked Questions
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.
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 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.
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.
How much programming experience is required?
Applicants should have some knowledge and experience in at least one of the following programming languages: Python, C, and MATLAB.
Are there some recommended resources to help prepare for the MS-AAI program?
Here are some free recommended resources for preparing for the Master of Science in Applied Artificial Intelligence program:
Khan Academy: Calculus
Khan Academy: Statistics
Math is Fun: Statistics
Khan Academy: Linear Algebra
Active Calculus: Free open-source texts
LearnPython.org: Free interactive Python tutorial
Introduction to R by Udemy
Free Matlab tutorial
Does USD offer career development/advising support?
The University of San Diego is committed to steering you on a path toward educational and professional success. Right from the start, you’ll receive support and guidance from experienced University of San Diego advisors who are invested in helping you achieve your education goals!