Carnegie Mellon University

How this program compares

At an estimated $201.6K in total tuition, the PhD in Machine Learning sits about 131% above the $87.2K average for AI doctoral programs in our database — placing it in the 92nd 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, mathematics, statistics, or a related field is required, along with a strong academic record, research experience, and proficiency in programming and machine learning fundamentals. GRE scores are optional, with emphasis on letters of recommendation and research potential.

About This Program

This doctoral program trains students to lead machine learning research through interdisciplinary coursework and cutting-edge data analysis projects. Coursework concentrates on Artificial Intelligence & Machine Learning and AI Engineering / Applied AI. Most students complete it in about 5 years.

Develop novel machine learning algorithms and models grounded in mathematical theory.

Estimated total tuition is $201.6K, above the $87.2K average for AI doctoral programs in our database and in the 92nd percentile on cost at this level. Applicants should weigh that premium against the program's outcomes and brand.

It is one of 60 AI-related programs we track in Pennsylvania, of which about 43% offer an online option. On price, it comes in higher than about 90% of the Pennsylvania programs in our data, where typical tuition runs near $81.1K.

Graduates frequently move into roles such as AI Research Scientist, with reported salaries around $150,000.

Career Outcomes

Carnegie Mellon University positions this doctoral track for AI Research Scientist careers — typical offers cluster around $150,000. 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 36% growth this decade — verify the current figure on the BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook before you rely on it.

• 1. Machine Learning Professor
• 2. AI Research Scientist
• 3. Principal ML Engineer
• 4. Data Science Director

What You'll Learn

• Develop novel machine learning algorithms and models grounded in mathematical theory.
• Conduct independent research on cutting-edge topics like generative models and reinforcement learning.
• Analyze and optimize large-scale ML systems for real-world applications.
• Communicate research findings through publications and presentations.

Curriculum Highlights

The curriculum is built on core machine learning courses, advanced statistics, research rotations, and a significant doctoral dissertation.

Top Employers

Top employers include Google, Meta, OpenAI, Microsoft Research, and government labs like DARPA.

Admissions

Admission to Carnegie Mellon University's PhD in Machine Learning 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