University of Colorado Boulder
MS in Artificial Intelligence
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
At an estimated $15.8K in total tuition, the MS in Artificial Intelligence sits roughly 63% below the $42.9K average for AI master's programs in our database — placing it in the 13th percentile on cost among the 394 we track at this level. It is one of the 54% of programs in our database offered fully or partly online.
Admission Snapshot
Typical admitted student: A bachelor's degree in computer science, engineering, mathematics, or related field with a minimum GPA of 3.0 is required; programming experience and performance in preliminary pathway courses serve as admission criteria rather than traditional academic history.
About This Program
CU Boulder's MS in Artificial Intelligence, delivered online via Coursera, is among the most accessible degrees of its kind — performance-based admission (no application barrier) and a pay-as-you-go structure that keeps total cost remarkably low. The credential is the same MS the university awards.
The program covers machine learning, deep learning, and AI fundamentals in a fully flexible format, making it a standout value for working professionals and career-changers testing into a graduate AI degree.
Why students choose it: Performance-based admission and pay-as-you-go pricing make it one of the most accessible AI master's degrees.
Career Outcomes
The MS in Artificial Intelligence at University of Colorado Boulder (Boulder, Colorado) is oriented toward Machine Learning Engineer hiring, with alumni reporting pay near $120,000. Its focus on Natural Language Processing (NLP) and Machine Learning 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. Machine Learning Engineer
- 2. AI Research Scientist
- 3. Data Scientist
- 4. AI Software Developer
What You'll Learn
- Build, evaluate, and interpret supervised and unsupervised machine learning models.
- Apply deep learning architectures including neural networks and transformers to complex data.
- Analyze high-dimensional data using dimensionality reduction and clustering techniques.
- Make ethical, industry-relevant decisions in AI model development and deployment.
Curriculum Highlights
The core curriculum addresses breadth areas central to AI expertise, including machine learning and ethics. Sub-disciplines include computer vision, natural language processing, and theoretical foundations of autonomous systems.
Top Employers
Top employers include Google, Microsoft, Amazon, Meta, and AI-focused startups or research labs.
Admissions
Admission to University of Colorado Boulder's MS in Artificial Intelligence 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
What distinguishes the MS in Artificial Intelligence at University of Colorado Boulder?
This professional master's program prepares engineers and technical professionals for career advancement in AI engineering roles. It focuses on the powerful technologies reshaping industries and communities.
Does University of Colorado Boulder offer the MS in Artificial Intelligence in an online format?
Yes — University of Colorado Boulder lists this program as online, and it can be taken part-time. Confirm on-campus residency requirements, if any, on the official program page.
How much does the MS in Artificial Intelligence cost?
We estimate total tuition at roughly $15.8K, below 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 Colorado Boulder.
Does the MS in Artificial Intelligence require the GRE?
No — University of Colorado Boulder 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 MS in Artificial Intelligence take to complete?
Most students finish in about 1 year, though part-time schedules can extend that. Accelerated or part-time tracks may change the timeline.
What jobs can you get with the MS in Artificial Intelligence?
Graduates commonly pursue roles such as Machine Learning Engineer, with reported pay around $120,000. Actual outcomes depend on your prior experience, portfolio and location — see our AI salary guide for current, source-cited ranges.
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Visit the official program page for the latest deadlines, tuition, and application requirements.