University of St. Thomas

How this program compares

Budget-wise, $16.2K puts this certificate program at the 80th percentile on cost — about 47% above the $11.0K average across 180 comparable listings. 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 from an accredited institution is required. Applicants should have a foundation in computer science, mathematics, or a related quantitative field; some programs accept applicants without prior AI experience but expect strong analytical skills.

About This Program

This certificate provides a foundational understanding of artificial intelligence, focusing on its practical applications in software engineering and data science for industry professionals. Coursework concentrates on Generative AI and LLMs and AI Ethics/Policy. Most students complete it in about 1 year.

Estimated total tuition is $16.2K, above the $11.0K average for AI certificate programs in our database and in the 80th percentile on cost at this level. Applicants should weigh that premium against the program's outcomes and brand.

It is one of 12 AI-related programs we track in Minnesota, of which about 67% offer an online option. On price, it comes in cheaper than about 83% of the Minnesota programs in our data, where typical tuition runs near $32.8K.

Graduates frequently move into roles such as AI Engineer, with reported salaries around $110,000.

Design, develop, and deploy machine learning models for real-world applications.

Career Outcomes

Graduates of University of St. Thomas's Graduate Certificate in Applied Artificial Intelligence most often target AI Engineer roles, where reported compensation runs around $110,000. Its focus on Generative AI and LLMs and AI Ethics/Policy maps directly to how employers screen for specialized skills rather than generic degrees. Federal projections for this occupational area point to roughly 35% 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 Scientist
• 4. AI Product Manager

What You'll Learn

• Design, develop, and deploy machine learning models for real-world applications
• Understand and implement deep learning architectures for image recognition, NLP, and predictive analytics
• Apply ethical frameworks and governance principles to AI system development
• Evaluate AI systems for bias, fairness, transparency, and regulatory compliance

Curriculum Highlights

The curriculum consists of four graduate-level courses exploring essential AI principles, algorithms, and practical implementations that can be applied toward a master’s degree.

Top Employers

Top employers include technology giants like Google, Microsoft, Amazon, and Meta, as well as financial services firms, healthcare organizations, and government agencies investing in AI innovation.

Admissions

Admission to University of St. Thomas's Graduate Certificate in Applied Artificial Intelligence generally expects a bachelor's degree. 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: 2–3
• Resume: Required
• Transcripts: Official transcripts required

Frequently Asked Questions