University of California, Irvine
Master of Applied Artificial Intelligence for Science
Last reviewed June 2026 by the AI Graduate editorial team. Program data is compiled and verified from official university sources — see our methodology.
How this program compares
University of California, Irvine's Master of Applied Artificial Intelligence for Science lists about $47.8K total tuition — about 11% above the $42.9K AI master's average (67th percentile in our data). It runs on a full-time schedule (on-campus).
Admission Snapshot
Typical admitted student: A bachelor's degree in a STEM field such as computer science, mathematics, physics, or biology is required, along with a minimum GPA of 3.0 and prerequisite coursework in programming, calculus, linear algebra, and statistics.
About This Program
UC Irvine's Master of Applied Artificial Intelligence for Science is a distinctive program aimed at applying AI and machine learning to scientific discovery — bridging data science with domains like physics, biology, and the environmental sciences. UCI has notable strengths in machine learning research.
The program suits students who want to use AI as a tool for scientific research and innovation, supported by UCI's research culture and Southern California's tech and biotech sectors.
Why students choose it: A rare AI-for-science focus, applying machine learning to research and discovery.
Career Outcomes
University of California, Irvine positions this master track for AI Research Scientist careers — typical offers cluster around $130,000. Its focus on Machine Learning and AI Engineering / Applied AI maps directly to how employers screen for specialized skills rather than generic degrees. Federal projections for this occupational area point to roughly 23% growth this decade — verify the current figure on the BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook before you rely on it.
- 1. AI Scientist in Research Labs
- 2. Machine Learning Engineer for Science
- 3. Data Scientist in Biotech/Pharma
- 4. Computational Researcher in Academia
What You'll Learn
- Apply machine learning algorithms to analyze complex scientific datasets
- Develop AI models for simulations in physics, chemistry, and biology
- Use deep learning for pattern recognition in experimental data
- Integrate AI tools into scientific research workflows for discovery
Curriculum Highlights
The course structure features Python programming, AI methods, ethics seminars, and a three-quarter project sequence culminating in a capstone project.
Top Employers
Top employers include research institutions like national labs, biotech firms such as Genentech and Illumina, tech companies like Google DeepMind, and universities with AI-science initiatives.
Admissions
Admission to University of California, Irvine's Master of Applied Artificial Intelligence for Science generally expects a bachelor's degree. 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
Why choose University of California, Irvine's Master of Applied Artificial Intelligence for Science?
This nine-month professional degree is tailored for scientists to integrate artificial intelligence and large language models into scientific problem-solving.
Does University of California, Irvine offer the Master of Applied Artificial Intelligence for Science in an online format?
This program is listed as on-campus, so plan for on-campus attendance. University of California, Irvine may offer other online AI options — verify current formats before applying.
How much does the Master of Applied Artificial Intelligence for Science cost?
We estimate total tuition at roughly $47.8K, above the $42.9K average for comparable AI master's programs in our database. Tuition changes yearly and excludes fees and living costs, so treat this as a planning figure and confirm with University of California, Irvine.
Does the Master of Applied Artificial Intelligence for Science require the GRE?
No — University of California, Irvine does not require the GRE for this program, which is increasingly common among AI programs. A strong transcript, projects and recommendation letters carry more weight.
How long does the Master of Applied Artificial Intelligence for Science take to complete?
Most students finish in about 0.75 years for full-time enrollment. Accelerated or part-time tracks may change the timeline.
What jobs can you get with the Master of Applied Artificial Intelligence for Science?
Graduates commonly pursue roles such as AI Research Scientist, with reported pay around $130,000. Actual outcomes depend on your prior experience, portfolio and location — see our AI salary guide for current, source-cited ranges.
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