University of Southern California

How this program compares

University of Southern California's BS in Artificial Intelligence lists about $301.3K total tuition — about 236% above the $89.8K AI bachelor's average (99th percentile in our data). It runs on a full-time schedule (on-campus).

Admission Snapshot

Typical admitted student: High school diploma or equivalent with a minimum GPA of 3.0 is required, along with SAT or ACT scores (optional at many institutions). Strong performance in math and computer science courses is highly recommended.

About This Program

This interdisciplinary undergraduate program provides a deep foundation in AI theories and applications across computer science and engineering departments. Coursework concentrates on MLOps/AI Engineering and AI Engineering / Applied AI. Most students complete it in about 4 years.

At roughly $301.3K total, University of Southern California's BS in Artificial Intelligence sits above the $89.8K average among AI bachelor's programs we track — the 99th percentile on price. Applicants should weigh that premium against the program's outcomes and brand.

It is one of 65 AI-related programs we track in California, of which about 37% offer an online option. On price, it comes in higher than about 98% of the California programs in our data, where typical tuition runs near $63.3K.

Graduates frequently move into roles such as Machine Learning Engineer, with reported salaries around $120,000.

Design and implement machine learning algorithms for predictive modeling.

Career Outcomes

Graduates of University of Southern California's BS in Artificial Intelligence most often target Machine Learning Engineer roles, where reported compensation runs around $120,000. Its focus on MLOps/AI Engineering and AI Engineering / Applied AI maps directly to how employers in engineering ai 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. Computer Vision Engineer

What You'll Learn

• Design and implement machine learning algorithms for predictive modeling.
• Build and train neural networks for tasks like image recognition and language understanding.
• Apply AI techniques to solve real-world problems in data analysis and automation.
• Evaluate ethical implications and biases in AI systems.

Curriculum Highlights

The 130-unit curriculum covers mathematical foundations, AI principles, machine learning, and elective tracks in systems, operations, or computing foundations.

Top Employers

Top employers include Google, Microsoft, Amazon, and Meta.

Admissions

Admission to University of Southern California's BS in Artificial Intelligence generally expects a high school diploma. 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: Optional
• Transcripts: Official transcripts required

Frequently Asked Questions