Master of science in artificial intelligence

    AI

    Build confidence in tomorrow’s technology with a master of science in artificial intelligence from Wayne State University.

    This rigorous program develops your creativity, problem-solving, algorithmic design, and programming skills to build, maintain, and reimagine AI systems. It prepares engineers, consultants, Ph.D. candidates, and entrepreneurs with a competitive edge and a drive for growth.

     

    Program highlights

    • Three major 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 major and 3 credits (1 course) from each of the other two majors. 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 majors to build your specialized skills

    Targeted subject knowledge in the burgeoning field of AI can help you distinguish yourself to employers. Three majors to choose from:

    AI hardware and systems

    Format: Traditional
    Department: Electrical and Computer Engineering(ECE)

    Gain expertise in machine learning and intelligent systems through courses in:

    • Natural language processing
    • Deep learning
    • Computer vision
    • Online and adaptive learning
    • Electives in circuits, networks, and signal processing


    Review M.S. artificial intelligence (AI hardware and systems) curriculum

    AI algorithm and systems

    Format: Traditional
    Department: Computer Science (CSC)

    Explore machine learning and deep learning applications in:

    • Mobility
    • Cybersecurity
    • Game programming and design
    • Intelligent systems
    • Computer graphics
    • Database management
    • Data mining


    Review the M.S. artificial intelligence (AI algorithm and systems) curriculum

    Industrial AI

    Format: Traditional
    Department: Industrial and Systems Engineering (ISE)

    Build the skills needed to address complex challenges in modern industry through coursework in:

    • Statistical learning
    • Intelligent analytics
    • Operations research
    • Digital automation
    • Manufacturing analytics
    • Knowledge-based design
    • Large-scale optimization


    Review M.S. artificial intelligence (industrial AI) curriculum

    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 an 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. 

    Careers to consider:

    • 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

    WSU is one of Michigan’s most affordable top-tier research institutions. You’ll benefit from financial aid, scholarships, and on-campus employment opportunities that help offset tuition costs and provide valuable professional experience.

    Learn more about tuition, fees, and financial resources

    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.

    Application details

    • Application fee: $50 This fee is waived for applicants to the Winter 2026, Spring/Summer 2026, and Fall 2026 terms.

    Deadlines

    Applications are reviewed up to the start of each semester. International students are encouraged to apply three to six months in advance to allow time for visa processing.

    Wayne State’s fall semester begins in August and winter semester begins in January. Check the academic and registration calendar for specific dates.

    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.