Is a master's degree in artificial intelligence worth it?

By: Amanda Phagan, Edited by: Marie Custodio Collazo

Published: March 21, 2025

Artificial intelligence (AI) powers video streaming, search engines, cybersecurity, and more. It's no secret that this technology is important in our daily lives. According to McKinsey & Company's "The State of AI in Early 2024" report, organizations that use AI jumped to 72% in 2024 — up from around 50% over the past six years. Further, 2024 was the first year that more than two-thirds of global respondents reported that their organization incorporates AI in some capacity.

Earning an advanced education in artificial intelligence is one way to impact this exciting field. But is a master's in artificial intelligence worth it? Read on to find out.

Master's degree in artificial intelligence program overview

If you've earned a bachelor's degree and want to harness the power of AI in your career, you may consider earning a master's degree in artificial intelligence online. Master's in AI degree programs can teach you about big data technologies that drive the growth of AI, advanced programming methodologies, and essential machine learning tools. Some programs offer specializations such as emerging AI technologies and the ethics of artificial intelligence.

Admissions requirements vary, but candidates may need to submit references, a personal statement, transcripts, and their résumé. Check with individual programs for their exact admissions requirements.

Benefits of an online master's degree in artificial intelligence

Gaining knowledge about an exciting, ever-evolving field is just one of the many benefits of earning this degree. Master's in AI programs can open doors to high-paying job opportunities, teach learners about emerging research, and give job seekers a competitive edge. Master's in AI degree graduates can:

• Master key AI concepts like machine learning, neural networks, and algorithms.
• Advance their career with complex computer programming skills.
• Pursue impactful roles in data science, AI engineering, software development, and more. There are so many ways to use a master's in AI.

Are graduates of a master's degree in artificial intelligence in demand?

Since companies and individuals want to find more ways to integrate AI into daily activities, the BLS expects the following roles to grow much faster than the average 3% across all occupations from 2022-2032:

• Software developers, quality assurance analysts, and testers: 25% growth or 153,900 annual job openings
• Data scientists: 35% growth or 17,700 annual job openings
• Computer and information research scientists: 23% growth or 3,400 annual job openings

Which artificial intelligence field has the highest salary?

Since artificial intelligence is ever-evolving, so are AI jobs. According to the BLS, software publishers in the computer and information research science space made a median annual salary of $233,110 — the most out of the AI-related jobs studied. Research and development roles in the physical, engineering, and life sciences followed closely behind with a $172,190 median annual salary. There are, however, numerous career opportunities for master's in AI graduates — and pay varies across roles and industries.

How much does a master's degree in artificial intelligence cost?

In 2020, the average tuition for online computer and information sciences master's degrees was $10,877, according to the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES).

The total cost of a master's degree in AI depends on several factors, including your school, program, and financial aid eligibility. As you explore options, pay attention to each program's tuition estimate, fees, and financial assistance opportunities.