University of Maine

How this program compares

At an estimated $18.8K in total tuition, the MS in Data Science & Engineering – AI Focus sits roughly 56% below the $42.9K average for AI master's programs in our database — placing it in the 21st 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: Applicants typically need a bachelor's degree in computer science, engineering, mathematics, or a related quantitative field, with a GPA of 3.0 or higher. Prior coursework in programming, linear algebra, and statistics is strongly recommended.

About This Program

This interdisciplinary program focuses on the engineering principles behind data infrastructure and the application of AI to complex engineering datasets. Coursework concentrates on Machine Learning and AI Engineering / Applied AI. Most students complete it in about 1.5 years.

Design, build, and deploy machine learning models and AI systems in production environments.

Budget planners should note $18.8K estimated total tuition (21st percentile among AI master's programs, below the $42.9K average). That makes it one of the more affordable options for students weighing return on investment.

It is one of 4 AI-related programs we track in MAINE, of which about 75% offer an online option. On price, it comes in cheaper than about 50% of the MAINE programs in our data, where typical tuition runs near $83.6K.

Graduates frequently move into roles such as Data Scientist, with reported salaries around $120,000.

Career Outcomes

Graduates of University of Maine's MS in Data Science & Engineering – AI Focus most often target Data Scientist roles, where reported compensation runs around $120,000. 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 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 Systems Architect
• 3. Data Engineering Lead
• 4. MLOps Specialist

What You'll Learn

• Design, build, and deploy machine learning models and AI systems in production environments
• Apply advanced data engineering techniques to construct scalable data pipelines and infrastructure
• Master the full AI lifecycle from data collection and feature engineering through model evaluation and optimization
• Evaluate and mitigate risks in AI systems, including bias detection, model interpretability, and ethical considerations

Curriculum Highlights

The structure includes theme areas in data acquisition and analysis, with specialized courses in AI and machine learning.

Top Employers

Top employers include Google, Microsoft, Amazon, Meta, IBM, and major financial institutions such as JPMorgan Chase and Goldman Sachs.

Admissions

Admission to University of Maine's MS in Data Science & Engineering – AI Focus generally expects a bachelor's degree. Plan for the GRE, which this program lists as required (gre preferred for stem programs). 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