University of Southern California

How this program compares

At an estimated $159.9K in total tuition, the PhD in Computer Science (AI & ML) sits about 83% above the $87.2K average for AI doctoral programs in our database — placing it in the 83rd percentile on cost among the 36 we track at this level. It runs on a full-time schedule (on-campus).

Admission Snapshot

Typical admitted student: A master's degree in computer science or related field is preferred, along with a strong GPA (typically 3.5+), research experience, and relevant publications. GRE scores are often optional, with emphasis on letters of recommendation and a research statement.

About This Program

This research-intensive doctoral program focuses on pioneering contributions to fundamental and interdisciplinary fields of computing, AI, and machine learning. Coursework concentrates on Computer Vision and Machine Learning. Most students complete it in about 5.5 years.

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 89% of the California programs in our data, where typical tuition runs near $63.3K.

Graduates frequently move into roles such as AI Research Scientist, with reported salaries around $150,000.

Design and implement advanced machine learning models for complex data problems.

Estimated total tuition is $159.9K, above the $87.2K average for AI doctoral programs in our database and in the 83rd percentile on cost at this level. Applicants should weigh that premium against the program's outcomes and brand.

Career Outcomes

University of Southern California positions this doctoral track for AI Research Scientist careers — typical offers cluster around $150,000. Its focus on Computer Vision 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. AI Research Scientist
• 2. Machine Learning Engineer
• 3. University Professor
• 4. AI Technical Lead

What You'll Learn

• Design and implement advanced machine learning models for complex data problems.
• Conduct original research in AI algorithms and their theoretical foundations.
• Apply deep learning techniques to real-world applications like vision and language.
• Evaluate ethical implications and societal impacts of AI systems.

Curriculum Highlights

The program emphasizes original research, doctoral seminars, and specialized coursework at the intersection of machine learning and optimization.

Top Employers

Top employers include Google, Microsoft, OpenAI, Meta, and government research labs like DARPA.

Admissions

Admission to University of Southern California's PhD in Computer Science (AI & ML) generally expects a master's degree preferred (bachelor's acceptable with strong research background). The GRE is optional 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: 3
• Resume: Required
• Transcripts: Official transcripts required

Frequently Asked Questions