Arizona State University

How this program compares

Arizona State University's PhD in Computing & Information Sciences (AI Research) lists about $104.2K total tuition — about 20% above the $87.2K AI doctoral average (69th percentile in our data). It runs on a full-time schedule (on-campus).

Admission Snapshot

Typical admitted student: Applicants must hold a bachelor's or master's degree in computer science, AI, or a closely related field with a minimum GPA of 3.5 (undergrad) or 3.7 (grad), strong programming skills, and preparation in algorithms, data structures, and mathematics. Research experience and a faculty advisor match are highly preferred.

About This Program

An advanced research degree focusing on the design and analysis of intelligent software systems and robotics through rigorous theoretical study and practical application. Coursework concentrates on Artificial Intelligence & Machine Learning and AI Engineering / Applied AI. Most students complete it in about 4 years.

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 80% of the Arizona programs in our data, where typical tuition runs near $53.3K.

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 $104.2K estimated total tuition (69th percentile among AI doctoral programs, above the $87.2K average). Applicants should weigh that premium against the program's outcomes and brand.

Career Outcomes

Arizona State University positions this doctoral track for AI Research Scientist careers — typical offers cluster around $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 journals.
• Analyze large datasets using deep learning and neural network techniques.
• Develop intelligent systems for applications like natural language processing and computer vision.

Curriculum Highlights

Anchored in core requirements like theory of computation, the program includes specialized research in AI streams and a culminating research-oriented dissertation.

Top Employers

Top employers include Google, Microsoft, OpenAI, and research institutions like national labs and universities.

Admissions

Admission to Arizona State University's PhD in Computing & Information Sciences (AI Research) generally expects a bachelor's or master's in 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