Cornell University

How this program compares

Cornell University's MEng in Computer Science (AI Focus) lists about $58.2K total tuition — about 36% above the $42.9K AI master's average (75th percentile in our data). It runs on a full-time schedule (on-campus).

Admission Snapshot

Typical admitted student: A bachelor's degree in computer science, engineering, or a related field with strong programming skills and coursework in algorithms, data structures, and mathematics (e.g., linear algebra, probability) is required, along with a minimum GPA of 3.0.

About This Program

This professional master's program in Ithaca develops expertise in high-level system design and implementation, offering students a flexible pathway to specialize in artificial intelligence. Coursework concentrates on Machine Learning and Natural Language Processing (NLP). Most students complete it in about 1 year.

Graduates frequently move into roles such as AI Engineer, with reported salaries around $140,000.

Design and implement machine learning models for real-world AI applications.

Estimated total tuition is $58.2K, above the $42.9K average for AI master's programs in our database and in the 75th percentile on cost at this level. Applicants should weigh that premium against the program's outcomes and brand.

It is one of 56 AI-related programs we track in New York, of which about 43% offer an online option. On price, it comes in higher than about 54% of the New York programs in our data, where typical tuition runs near $59.9K.

Career Outcomes

Graduates of Cornell University's MEng in Computer Science (AI Focus) most often target AI Engineer roles, where reported compensation runs around $140,000. Its focus on Machine Learning and Natural Language Processing (NLP) maps directly to how employers in engineering ai 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. Machine Learning Engineer
• 2. AI Research Scientist
• 3. Data Scientist (AI Focus)
• 4. Software Engineer (AI Systems)

What You'll Learn

• Design and implement machine learning models for real-world AI applications
• Apply deep learning techniques to process and analyze complex data like images and text
• Develop intelligent agents using reinforcement learning and planning algorithms
• Evaluate AI systems for performance, ethics, and scalability

Curriculum Highlights

The curriculum comprises 30 credits including graduate-level computer science courses, technical electives, and a significant design project in areas like AI, vision, or robotics.

Top Employers

Top employers include Google, Meta, Amazon, Microsoft, and AI research labs at companies like OpenAI and NVIDIA.

Admissions

Admission to Cornell University's MEng in Computer Science (AI Focus) generally expects a bachelor's degree. 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
• Transcripts: Official transcripts required

Frequently Asked Questions