American University

How this program compares

American University's MS in Business Analytics and AI lists about $68.6K total tuition — about 60% above the $42.9K AI master's average (84th percentile in our data). It is one of the 54% of programs in our database offered fully or partly online.

Admission Snapshot

Typical admitted student: Applicants typically need a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution and a strong analytical background (mathematics, computer science, engineering, or business). Most programs prefer relevant work experience and demonstrated quantitative skills.

About This Program

This STEM-designated master's program is designed to equip students with the technological expertise and leadership required for data-driven roles. Coursework concentrates on Machine Learning and AI Engineering / Applied AI. Most students complete it in about 1 year.

Estimated total tuition is $68.6K, above the $42.9K average for AI master's programs in our database and in the 84th percentile on cost at this level. Applicants should weigh that premium against the program's outcomes and brand.

It is one of 15 AI-related programs we track in District of Columbia, of which about 60% offer an online option. On price, it comes in higher than about 60% of the District of Columbia programs in our data, where typical tuition runs near $83.4K.

Graduates frequently move into roles such as Product Analyst, with reported salaries around $120,000.

Develop technical mastery in SQL, Python, machine learning frameworks, and LLM applications for building and evaluating AI models.

Career Outcomes

American University positions this master track for Product Analyst careers — typical offers cluster around $120,000. Its focus on Machine Learning and AI Engineering / Applied AI maps directly to how employers in business ai screen for specialized skills rather than generic degrees. Federal projections for this occupational area point to roughly 36% growth this decade — verify the current figure on the BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook before you rely on it.

• 1. Data Scientist
• 2. AI/Machine Learning Engineer
• 3. Business Analytics Manager
• 4. Analytics Strategy Consultant

What You'll Learn

• Develop technical mastery in SQL, Python, machine learning frameworks, and LLM applications for building and evaluating AI models
• Transform data infrastructure and implement AI systems at scale within organizational contexts
• Apply ethical frameworks and governance practices to responsible AI deployment and decision-making
• Lead cross-functional AI initiatives and communicate analytical insights to drive measurable business value

Curriculum Highlights

The curriculum features data wrangling, predictive analytics, and a required analytics practicum with local companies.

Top Employers

Top employers include Microsoft, PwC, Capital One, McKinsey, Google, Amazon, and major financial institutions.[1

Admissions

Admission to American University's MS in Business Analytics and AI generally expects a master of science (ms). The GRE is optional here — a growing norm among AI programs — so applicants can often lead with coursework, projects and recommendations instead. Deadlines, testing policies and funding change year to year, so confirm the current requirements on the official program page before applying.

Application Materials

• Statement of Purpose: Required
• Letters of Recommendation: 2–3
• Resume: Required
• Official Transcripts: Required

Frequently Asked Questions