Arizona State University

How this program compares

At an estimated $78.2K in total tuition, the PhD in Computer Science (AI Research) sits roughly 10% below the $87.2K average for AI doctoral programs in our database — placing it in the 56th percentile on cost among the 36 we track at this level. It runs on a full-time schedule (on-campus).

Admission Snapshot

Typical admitted student: A bachelor's or master's degree in computer science or related field is required, with a minimum GPA of 3.5 (undergraduate) or 3.7 (graduate), strong background in algorithms, data structures, and programming, and evidence of research potential such as publications or projects.

About This Program

A doctoral degree program that prepares students to conduct original, independent research and invent new concepts for designing efficient and reliable artificial intelligence systems. Most students complete it in about 5 years.

Graduates frequently move into roles such as AI Research Scientist, with reported salaries around $145,000.

Design and implement advanced AI models for complex problem-solving.

Budget planners should note $78.2K estimated total tuition (56th percentile among AI doctoral programs, below the $87.2K average). That puts it in the mid-range on price among comparable programs.

It is one of 15 AI-related programs we track in Arizona, of which about 67% offer an online option. On price, it comes in higher than about 73% of the Arizona programs in our data, where typical tuition runs near $53.3K.

Career Outcomes

The PhD in Computer Science (AI Research) at Arizona State University (Tempe, Arizona) is oriented toward AI Research Scientist hiring, with alumni reporting pay near $145,000. Its focus on Artificial Intelligence & Machine Learning and AI Engineering / Applied AI maps directly to how employers screen for specialized skills rather than generic degrees. Federal projections for this occupational area point to roughly 23% growth this decade — verify the current figure on the BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook before you rely on it.

• 1. AI Research Scientist
• 2. Machine Learning Engineer
• 3. University Professor
• 4. AI Technical Lead

What You'll Learn

• Design and implement advanced AI models for complex problem-solving.
• Conduct original research in machine learning and publish in peer-reviewed venues.
• Analyze and optimize algorithms for AI systems like neural networks and reinforcement learning.
• Apply AI techniques to real-world applications such as natural language processing and computer vision.

Curriculum Highlights

The 84-credit-hour curriculum requires core foundations in algorithms and AI, comprehensive exams, extensive research hours, and the completion of a significant doctoral dissertation.

Top Employers

Top employers include Google, Microsoft, OpenAI, and Amazon.

Admissions

Admission to Arizona State University's PhD in Computer Science (AI Research) generally expects a bachelor's or master's in computer science or related field. 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: 3
• Resume: Required
• Transcripts: Official transcripts required

Frequently Asked Questions