Northern Illinois University

How this program compares

Northern Illinois University's PhD in Computer Science - Machine Learning Emphasis lists about $35.1K total tuition — roughly 60% below the $87.2K AI doctoral average (25th percentile in our data). It runs on a flexible schedule (on-campus).

Admission Snapshot

Typical admitted student: Requires a master's or bachelor's degree in computer science or related field, minimum GPA of 3.0-3.5, strong research background or publications, and relevant coursework in algorithms, programming, and mathematics.

About This Program

This program prepares doctoral candidates to develop innovative machine learning models and data-driven solutions for complex academic and industrial problems. Coursework concentrates on Natural Language Processing (NLP) and Deep Learning. Most students complete it in about 5 years.

Design and analyze advanced machine learning algorithms for complex data problems.

Budget planners should note $35.1K estimated total tuition (25th percentile among AI doctoral programs, below the $87.2K average). That makes it one of the more affordable options for students weighing return on investment.

It is one of 35 AI-related programs we track in Illinois, of which about 34% offer an online option. On price, it comes in cheaper than about 63% of the Illinois programs in our data, where typical tuition runs near $71.7K.

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

Career Outcomes

Northern Illinois University positions this doctoral track for AI Research Scientist careers — typical offers cluster around $145,000. Its focus on Natural Language Processing (NLP) 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 Research Scientist
• 2. AI Research Professor
• 3. Data Science Director
• 4. Principal Machine Learning Engineer

What You'll Learn

• Design and analyze advanced machine learning algorithms for complex data problems.
• Develop and optimize deep learning models for applications like vision and language.
• Conduct original research in machine learning theory and methodologies.
• Apply machine learning to real-world computer science challenges such as optimization and prediction.

Curriculum Highlights

Coursework and research revolve around high-level machine learning theory, statistical analysis, and practical applications in fields like bioinformatics and data science.

Top Employers

Top employers include Google, Meta, OpenAI, Microsoft Research, and Amazon AI labs.

Admissions

Admission to Northern Illinois University's PhD in Computer Science - Machine Learning Emphasis generally expects a master's preferred (bachelor's acceptable with strong research experience). 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