Northwestern University

How this program compares

Northwestern University's Accelerated MS in Data Science (AI) lists about $63.6K total tuition — about 48% above the $42.9K AI master's average (79th percentile in our data). It runs on a full-time schedule (hybrid).

Admission Snapshot

Typical admitted student: Applicants must hold a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution with a minimum GPA of 3.0 and demonstrate foundational knowledge in mathematics, statistics, or computer science. GMAT/GRE scores may be required or recommended depending on academic background.

About This Program

A full-time, one-year master’s program designed to build essential analysis and leadership skills through a blend of on-campus and online instruction. Coursework concentrates on Natural Language Processing (NLP) and Deep Learning. Most students complete it in about 1 year.

Design, train, and evaluate machine learning models and deep learning architectures for complex data problems.

Estimated total tuition is $63.6K, above the $42.9K average for AI master's programs in our database and in the 79th percentile on cost at this level. Applicants should weigh that premium against the program's outcomes and brand.

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 higher than about 60% of the Illinois programs in our data, where typical tuition runs near $71.7K.

Graduates frequently move into roles such as Data Scientist, with reported salaries around $115,000.

Career Outcomes

Graduates of Northwestern University's Accelerated MS in Data Science (AI) most often target Data Scientist roles, where reported compensation runs around $115,000. 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 Engineer
• 2. AI Strategy Consultant
• 3. Data Scientist
• 4. AI Product Manager

What You'll Learn

• Design, train, and evaluate machine learning models and deep learning architectures for complex data problems
• Develop AI strategies, governance frameworks, and compliance solutions aligned with organizational goals
• Apply natural language processing, computer vision, and generative AI techniques to real-world industry applications
• Translate business problems into analytical solutions and communicate findings to technical and non-technical stakeholders

Curriculum Highlights

The accelerated format includes eight core courses, two specialization courses in AI, and a final capstone project.

Top Employers

Top employers for AI and data science graduates include tech leaders like Google, Amazon, Meta, and IBM, as well as financial institutions, healthcare organizations, and government agencies investing heavily in AI capabilities.[1][2

Admissions

Admission to Northwestern University's Accelerated MS in Data Science (AI) generally expects a bachelor's degree. Plan for the GRE, which this program lists as recommended or required (varies by program track). 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