Cornell University

How this program compares

Budget-wise, $83.2K puts this doctoral program at the 61st percentile on cost — roughly 5% below the $87.2K average across 36 comparable listings. 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, or a related field is required, along with a strong academic record (GPA typically 3.5+), research experience, and programming proficiency. GRE scores are often optional, with emphasis on letters of recommendation and a research statement.

About This Program

This doctoral program offers a flexible yet rigorous research environment where students work with world-class faculty on pioneering advancements in artificial intelligence and data science. Most students complete it in about 5 years.

Design and analyze advanced AI models for complex data-driven problems.

At roughly $83.2K total, Cornell University's PhD in Computer Science (AI/DS) sits below the $87.2K average among AI doctoral programs we track — the 61st percentile on price. That puts it in the mid-range on price among comparable programs.

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 88% of the New York programs in our data, where typical tuition runs near $59.9K.

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

Career Outcomes

Cornell 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 Professor
• 3. Data Science Director
• 4. Principal AI Engineer

What You'll Learn

• Design and analyze advanced AI models for complex data-driven problems
• Develop novel machine learning algorithms with theoretical guarantees
• Conduct original research in AI systems and data science applications
• Apply statistical methods to high-dimensional data and predictive modeling

Curriculum Highlights

The program requires the completion of five graduate-level breadth courses across various CS areas and research styles, culminating in a significant original dissertation.

Top Employers

Top employers include Google, Microsoft, OpenAI, Meta, and research institutions like IBM Research and national labs.

Admissions

Admission to Cornell University's PhD in Computer Science (AI/DS) 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