George Mason University

How this program compares

At an estimated $21.3K in total tuition, the MS in Computer Science - Machine Learning sits roughly 50% below the $42.9K average for AI master's programs in our database — placing it in the 28th percentile on cost among the 394 we track at this level. 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, mathematics, or a related field with a minimum GPA of 3.0 is required, along with programming experience and coursework in linear algebra, probability, and calculus.

About This Program

This program offers a deep foundation in computer science while allowing students to concentrate on the latest developments in machine learning and artificial intelligence. Coursework concentrates on Generative AI and LLMs and Deep Learning. Most students complete it in about 2 years.

It is one of 14 AI-related programs we track in Virginia, of which about 71% offer an online option. On price, it comes in cheaper than about 50% of the Virginia programs in our data, where typical tuition runs near $32.8K.

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

Design and implement machine learning models for predictive analytics.

At roughly $21.3K total, George Mason University's MS in Computer Science - Machine Learning sits below the $42.9K average among AI master's programs we track — the 28th percentile on price. That makes it one of the more affordable options for students weighing return on investment.

Career Outcomes

The MS in Computer Science - Machine Learning at George Mason University (Fairfax, Virginia) is oriented toward Machine Learning Engineer hiring, with alumni reporting pay near $120,000. Its focus on Generative AI and LLMs 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. Machine Learning Engineer
• 2. AI Research Scientist
• 3. Data Scientist
• 4. NLP Specialist

What You'll Learn

• Design and implement machine learning models for predictive analytics
• Apply deep learning techniques to image and sequence data
• Evaluate and optimize algorithms for real-world AI systems
• Develop reinforcement learning agents for decision-making tasks

Curriculum Highlights

The structure includes required computer science core courses such as algorithms and systems programming, with advanced concentration electives in machine learning and data mining.

Top Employers

Top employers include Google, Amazon, Microsoft, Meta, and government research agencies like DARPA.

Admissions

Admission to George Mason University's MS in Computer Science - Machine Learning 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