National University

How this program compares

National University's MS in DS – AI & Optimization lists about $30.7K total tuition — roughly 28% below the $42.9K AI master's average (46th 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, mathematics, engineering, or a related field with a minimum GPA of 3.0 is required, along with programming experience in Python or similar languages. Relevant coursework in statistics, linear algebra, and calculus is often preferred.

About This Program

This advanced degree focuses on the software and hardware tools needed for big data, emphasizing optimization and artificial intelligence applications. Coursework concentrates on Deep Learning and MLOps/AI Engineering. Most students complete it in about 1.5 years.

It is one of 65 AI-related programs we track in California, of which about 37% offer an online option. On price, it comes in cheaper than about 69% of the California programs in our data, where typical tuition runs near $63.3K.

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

Design and implement machine learning models for predictive analytics and pattern recognition.

At roughly $30.7K total, National University's MS in DS – AI & Optimization sits below the $42.9K average among AI master's programs we track — the 46th percentile on price. That puts it in the mid-range on price among comparable programs.

Career Outcomes

National University positions this master track for Data Scientist careers — typical offers cluster around $120,000. Its focus on Deep Learning 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 36% growth this decade — verify the current figure on the BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook before you rely on it.

• 1. AI/ML Engineer
• 2. Data Scientist
• 3. Optimization Specialist
• 4. Machine Learning Researcher

What You'll Learn

• Design and implement machine learning models for predictive analytics and pattern recognition.
• Apply optimization techniques to solve complex AI problems in resource-constrained environments.
• Develop scalable AI systems using distributed computing and large-scale data platforms.
• Analyze and process real-world datasets with advanced AI algorithms including deep learning and reinforcement learning.

Curriculum Highlights

The program covers analytic models, data mining techniques, applied optimization, neural networks, and a three-month team-based capstone project.

Top Employers

Top employers include tech giants like Google, Amazon, Microsoft, and Meta, as well as consulting firms and research organizations focused on AI applications.

Admissions

Admission to National University's MS in DS – AI & Optimization 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