Duke University

How this program compares

Duke University's MS in Autonomous, Intelligent Systems and Machines lists about $33.9K total tuition — roughly 21% below the $42.9K AI master's average (52nd percentile in our data). It is one of the 54% of programs in our database offered fully or partly online.

Admission Snapshot

Typical admitted student: A bachelor's degree in computer science, electrical engineering, mathematics, or a related field is required, along with a minimum GPA of 3.0 and programming experience in languages like Python. GRE scores are often optional, with strong emphasis on relevant coursework in AI, probability, and statistics.

About This Program

This research-oriented Master of Science focuses on the theoretical foundations of robotics and intelligent systems, preparing students for advanced technical roles or doctoral studies in the field. Coursework concentrates on AI Ethics/Policy and MLOps/AI Engineering. Most students complete it in about 1.5 years.

Graduates frequently move into roles such as AI Engineer, with reported salaries around $120,000.

Design and control autonomous systems using AI algorithms.

Budget planners should note $33.9K estimated total tuition (52nd percentile among AI master's programs, below the $42.9K average). That puts it in the mid-range on price among comparable programs.

It is one of 31 AI-related programs we track in North Carolina, of which about 45% offer an online option. On price, it comes in cheaper than about 61% of the North Carolina programs in our data, where typical tuition runs near $69.0K.

Career Outcomes

The MS in Autonomous, Intelligent Systems and Machines at Duke University (Durham, North Carolina) is oriented toward AI Engineer hiring, with alumni reporting pay near $120,000. Its focus on AI Ethics/Policy and MLOps/AI Engineering 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. Robotics Engineer
• 2. AI Systems Architect
• 3. Autonomous Vehicle Specialist
• 4. Machine Learning Engineer

What You'll Learn

• Design and control autonomous systems using AI algorithms
• Implement machine learning models for robotic perception and decision-making
• Develop intelligent machines for real-world applications like navigation and manipulation
• Optimize AI systems for edge computing and multi-agent coordination

Curriculum Highlights

The flexible curriculum includes cornerstone project-based learning, advanced departmental courses in mechanical engineering, mathematics or statistics requirements, and a final research project or thesis.

Top Employers

Top employers include tech leaders like Google, Tesla, Boston Dynamics, and NVIDIA, along with aerospace firms and research labs.

Admissions

Admission to Duke University's MS in Autonomous, Intelligent Systems and Machines 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