Master of science in artificial intelligence

Gain confidence using the technologies of tomorrow in the master of science in artificial intelligence program at Wayne State University. 

This rigorous degree program equips you to apply creativity, problem-solving, algorithmic design and computer programming skills to the building, maintenance and reimagining of AI systems. It prepares engineers, consultants, Ph.D. candidates and entrepreneurs with a competitive skillset and thirst for professional growth.

Program highlights

• Three concentration options to suit your career goals
• Thesis or non-thesis track
• Innovate the latest technology with our professors
• No GRE required for admission

What will you learn in the artificial intelligence program?

The AI field evolves nearly every day. As you study, it will grow: you’ll join the forefront of thinkers and technical experts creating machines that can learn, make decisions, reason about data and communicate with humans.

At Wayne State, you will develop fundamental skills in natural language processing, computer vision, machine learning and deep learning. You’ll then build out your expertise with specialized practice and knowledge to succeed in the domains where the burgeoning technologies of artificial intelligence will be most crucial: transportation, mobility, manufacturing, health care, retail, aerospace, automotive and logistics.

Curriculum

Complete the 30-credit artificial intelligence program curriculum with a 6-credit master’s thesis (Plan A) or solely coursework (Plan C). The foundation of your master’s degree includes 9 credits within your chosen concentration and 3 credits (1 course) from each of the other two concentrations. You will then further hone your studies in a variety of electives, primarily within your concentration.

We recommend choosing Plan A if you intend to pursue a doctoral degree after graduation. 

Learn more about the master’s in artificial intelligence thesis timeline.

Three concentrations to build your specialized skills

Targeted subject knowledge in the burgeoning field of AI can help you distinguish yourself to employers. Complete your master’s in artificial intelligence with a concentration in:

• AI hardware and systems, hosted by Electrical and Computer Engineering (ECE)

Develop proficiency in natural language processing, deep learning, computer vision, and online and adaptive methods for machine learning, and hone in on your interests through electives in computer architecture, computer networks, analog integrated circuits, digital signal processing, digital image processing and discrete event systems with machine learning.

• AI algorithm and systems, hosted by Computer Science (CS)

Engage with deep learning and machine learning applications for areas such as mobility, cyber security, game programming and design, intelligent systems, computer graphics, database management, and data mining.

• Industrial AI, hosted by Industrial and Systems Engineering (ISE)

Prepare for the unique challenges and opportunities in industrial settings with skills in statistical learning, intelligent analytics, operations research, digital automation, manufacturing analytics, knowledge-based design and large-scale optimization. 

This concentration equips engineers and business professionals to lead teams in designing and developing innovative AI applications and products. Students will learn a fine selection of AI techniques, platforms and best practices that have withstood the tests of time and market.

AGRADE (4+1) program to complete your bachelor’s and master’s degrees

Leap into your career with Wayne State’s Accelerated Graduate Enrollment (AGRADE) program. AGRADE equips you to make the most of your undergraduate degree: in collaboration with a faculty advisor, you design a plan to complete up to 16 credits of coursework that count toward both your bachelor’s and master’s — all at undergraduate tuition rates!

Careers with a master’s degree in artificial intelligence

Few fields have vaulted into the spotlight with as much verve and long-term potential as artificial intelligence. Demand for expertise is skyrocketing, while talent in the existing workforce remains limited. The M.S. in artificial intelligence at Wayne State University launches you into a global industry projected to surpass $1.6 trillion by 2030. 

With the AI degree, you are equipped for a broad spectrum of engineering and computer science disciplines that require innovative thinking and problem-solving — and that compensates your skills accordingly! According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, computer and information research scientists earn more than $130,000 per year on average, with 21% growth projected by 2031. Other roles in this field range from $78,000 to $159,000 annually. 

Consider careers like:

• AI researcher
• AI consultant
• Data scientist/engineer
• Machine learning engineer
• Deep learning engineer
• Robotics scientist
• Business intelligence developer
• Big data architect

Tuition and financial aid

In the fast-paced field of artificial intelligence, you get a leg ahead by investing in Wayne State’s affordable cost of attendance — the lowest among Michigan’s top research universities. 

We share your commitment through competitive graduate assistantships and scholarships that can help finance your education.

M.S. in artificial intelligence admission requirements

To qualify for admission, you must hold a bachelor’s or the equivalent in a STEM discipline, with a minimum GPA of 2.75 (2.5 to 2.74 for qualified admission) from an accredited college or university. We will also consider any professional experience you include in your application.

Entrance into the artificial intelligence program is contingent upon admission to the Graduate School, College of Engineering and department within the college — ECE, CS or IE, depending on your concentration.

Additional admission requirements:

• You do not need to provide supplemental admission documents; however, you may choose to submit letters of recommendation, a statement of purpose or professional resume/CV.
• If you earned your degree from a country where English is not the native language, you must demonstrate English proficiency via a qualified examination. We accept a minimum score of 79 from the internet-based TOEFL (iBT) or 550 from a paper-based TOEFL (pBT), an IELTS score of 6.5 or an overall Duolingo score of 125.
• International applicants are required to submit an official course-by-course transcript evaluation that will serve as your official transcript. Accepted evaluation services include WES, ECE or SpanTran. Your official transcript evaluation must be transmitted directly from the evaluating agency to the WSU Office of Graduate Admissions.
• All applicants must pay the $50 application fee.

Application deadlines

• Fall (begins in August): July 15
• Winter (begins in January): Nov. 1
• Spring/summer (spring begins in May; summer begins in June): Feb. 1

Learn more about graduate admissions.

Pioneer the future with a master’s degree in artificial intelligence

Create your place in the vibrant, consequential realm of AI with the master of science in artificial intelligence at Wayne State University. Choose one of three concentrations to situate yourself in this high-demand field, and opt for either the thesis or non-thesis track to align with your professional goals.