University of Washington

How this program compares

Budget-wise, $47.5K puts this doctoral program at the 39th percentile on cost — roughly 46% below the $87.2K average across 36 comparable listings. It runs on a full-time schedule (on-campus).

Admission Snapshot

Typical admitted student: Applicants must hold a Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Mathematics, Engineering, or a related field with strong quantitative skills. A Master's degree is preferred but not required. GRE scores, a statement of purpose, letters of recommendation from academic or research advisors, and demonstrated research interest in AI/ML are typically required.

About This Program

This research-intensive doctoral program prepares students for leadership roles in academia or industry through advanced study in computer science and artificial intelligence. Most students complete it in about 5 years.

Budget planners should note $47.5K estimated total tuition (39th percentile among AI doctoral programs, below the $87.2K average). That puts it in the mid-range on price among comparable programs.

It is one of 14 AI-related programs we track in Washington, of which about 57% offer an online option. On price, it comes in higher than about 64% of the Washington programs in our data, where typical tuition runs near $51.6K.

Graduates frequently move into roles such as AI Research Scientist, with reported salaries around $125,000.

Design and implement advanced machine learning algorithms for complex, real-world problems.

Career Outcomes

The PhD in Computer Science (AI, ML track) at University of Washington (Seattle, Washington) is oriented toward AI Research Scientist hiring, with alumni reporting pay near $125,000. Its focus on Artificial Intelligence & 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 Researcher
• 2. AI Systems Engineer
• 3. Data Scientist
• 4. Research Scientist at Technology Companies

What You'll Learn

• Design and implement advanced machine learning algorithms for complex, real-world problems
• Conduct independent research in emerging AI/ML areas and contribute to peer-reviewed publications
• Develop proficiency in deep learning, reinforcement learning, and statistical machine learning methodologies
• Apply AI/ML techniques to specialized domains such as computer vision, natural language processing, or autonomous systems

Curriculum Highlights

The program includes advanced graduate coursework, research rotations, and the completion of a doctoral dissertation in a specialized AI field.

Top Employers

Top employers for PhD graduates in AI/ML include Google, Microsoft, Meta, OpenAI, academic research institutions, and government laboratories such as NIST and national labs.

Admissions

Admission to University of Washington's PhD in Computer Science (AI, ML track) generally expects a bachelor's degree (master's preferred). Plan for the GRE, which this program lists as required. 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