Colorado State University

How this program compares

Budget-wise, $47.4K puts this doctoral program at the 36th percentile on cost — roughly 46% below the $87.2K average across 36 comparable listings. It runs on a full-time schedule (on-campus).

Admission Snapshot

Typical admitted student: Applicants must hold a master's degree in computer science, mathematics, or a related field, with a strong GPA (3.5+) and demonstrated research experience or publications in AI/ML. A statement of purpose outlining research interests in AI is essential.

About This Program

This research-intensive doctoral program is designed for students seeking to make original contributions to the field of artificial intelligence. Coursework concentrates on Machine Learning and Deep Learning. Most students complete it in about 5 years.

At roughly $47.4K total, Colorado State University's PhD in Computer Science – Artificial Intelligence sits below the $87.2K average among AI doctoral programs we track — the 36th percentile on price. That puts it in the mid-range on price among comparable programs.

It is one of 17 AI-related programs we track in Colorado, of which about 65% offer an online option. On price, it comes in higher than about 82% of the Colorado programs in our data, where typical tuition runs near $36.0K.

Graduates frequently move into roles such as AI Research Scientist, with reported salaries around $135,000.

Design and implement advanced machine learning models and neural networks for complex problem-solving.

Career Outcomes

Graduates of Colorado State University's PhD in Computer Science – Artificial Intelligence most often target AI Research Scientist roles, where reported compensation runs around $135,000. Its focus on Machine Learning and Deep Learning 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. AI Research Scientist
• 2. Machine Learning Engineer
• 3. Senior Data Scientist
• 4. AI Ethics Officer / AI Policy Researcher

What You'll Learn

• Design and implement advanced machine learning models and neural networks for complex problem-solving
• Conduct original research in AI specializations such as computer vision, NLP, or reinforcement learning
• Apply AI ethics frameworks and responsible AI principles to research and deployment
• Communicate research findings through academic writing, publications, and presentations

Curriculum Highlights

The program requires 60 credits, including doctoral seminars, advanced research areas like machine learning and computer vision, and a final dissertation defense.

Top Employers

Top employers include Google, Meta, Microsoft, OpenAI, DeepMind, Amazon, Tesla, and government research agencies such as NIST and DARPA.

Admissions

Admission to Colorado State University's PhD in Computer Science – Artificial Intelligence generally expects a master's degree (preferred) or bachelor's degree with exceptional qualifications. Plan for the GRE, which this program lists as required (typically 320+, with strong quantitative scores). 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 (from academic/research advisors)
• Resume: Required
• Transcripts: Official transcripts required
• Writing Sample or Research Proposal: Often required

Frequently Asked Questions