Purdue University

How this program compares

Budget-wise, $8.4K puts this certificate program at the 49th percentile on cost — roughly 24% below the $11.0K average across 180 comparable listings. It is one of the 54% of programs in our database offered fully or partly online.

Admission Snapshot

Typical admitted student: Applicants typically need a bachelor's degree in a related field such as computer science, engineering, mathematics, or a quantitative discipline. Some programs may require programming experience or foundational knowledge in mathematics and statistics, though specific prerequisites vary by institution.

About This Program

An online credential that builds foundational skills in AI and computing, serving as a valuable stepping stone toward the completion of a full master's degree. Coursework concentrates on Generative AI and LLMs and Natural Language Processing (NLP). Most students complete it in about 0.92 years.

Graduates frequently move into roles such as Machine Learning Engineer, with reported salaries around $125,000.

Design and implement machine learning models for real-world applications using supervised and unsupervised learning techniques.

At roughly $8.4K total, Purdue University's Post Graduate Certificate in AI and Machine Learning sits below the $11.0K average among AI certificate programs we track — the 49th percentile on price. That puts it in the mid-range on price among comparable programs.

It is one of 20 AI-related programs we track in Indiana, of which about 75% offer an online option. On price, it comes in cheaper than about 90% of the Indiana programs in our data, where typical tuition runs near $31.8K.

Career Outcomes

The Post Graduate Certificate in AI and Machine Learning at Purdue University (West Lafayette, Indiana) is oriented toward Machine Learning Engineer hiring, with alumni reporting pay near $125,000. Its focus on Generative AI and LLMs and Natural Language Processing (NLP) 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/ML Systems Architect
• 4. AI Solutions Consultant

What You'll Learn

• Design and implement machine learning models for real-world applications using supervised and unsupervised learning techniques
• Develop deep learning solutions including neural networks, computer vision, and natural language processing systems
• Apply ethical frameworks and responsible AI principles to address bias, transparency, and societal impact in AI systems
• Execute end-to-end AI/ML projects from data analysis through model deployment and evaluation

Curriculum Highlights

The program requires nine credit hours of coursework covering interdisciplinary AI fundamentals, the societal impacts of AI, and governance of emerging technologies.

Top Employers

Top employers for AI and machine learning professionals include Google, Microsoft, Amazon, IBM, OpenAI, and major financial institutions like JPMorgan Chase and Goldman Sachs.

Admissions

Admission to Purdue University's Post Graduate Certificate in AI and Machine Learning generally expects a bachelor's degree (or equivalent professional experience). The GRE is not required 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