Northwestern University

How this program compares

Budget-wise, $61.2K puts this master's program at the 77th percentile on cost — about 43% above the $42.9K average across 394 comparable listings. It is one of the 54% of programs in our database offered fully or partly online.

Admission Snapshot

Typical admitted student: Applicants must hold a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution, typically with a GPA of 3.0 or higher. A background in mathematics, statistics, computer science, or a related quantitative field is preferred; some programs accept applicants from non-technical backgrounds with strong analytical skills.

About This Program

This online specialization focuses on the growth of AI power and the development of deep learning methods to automate tasks formerly requiring human intelligence. Coursework concentrates on Natural Language Processing (NLP) and Generative AI and LLMs. Most students complete it in about 2 years.

Design and deploy machine learning and artificial intelligence solutions to advance organizational goals.

At roughly $61.2K total, Northwestern University's Online MS in Data Science – AI Specialization sits above the $42.9K average among AI master's programs we track — the 77th percentile on price. 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 54% 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 Online MS in Data Science – AI Specialization most often target Data Scientist roles, where reported compensation runs around $115,000. Its focus on Natural Language Processing (NLP) and Generative AI and LLMs 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. Data Scientist
• 3. AI Solutions Architect
• 4. Analytics Manager

What You'll Learn

• Design and deploy machine learning and artificial intelligence solutions to advance organizational goals
• Develop proficiency in deep learning, natural language processing, and generative AI technologies
• Integrate data engineering and data science to maximize the value of data for business applications
• Communicate data insights clearly to diverse stakeholders and lead analytics teams and projects

Curriculum Highlights

Coursework includes practical machine learning, natural language processing, artificial intelligence, and a final capstone project or thesis.

Top Employers

Top employers include tech giants like Google, Microsoft, Amazon, IBM, as well as financial institutions, healthcare organizations, and consulting firms seeking AI and data science expertise.

Admissions

Admission to Northwestern University's Online MS in Data Science – AI Specialization generally expects a master of science. 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
• Official Transcripts: Required

Frequently Asked Questions