Western Governors University

How this program compares

Budget-wise, $26.3K puts this master's program at the 36th percentile on cost — roughly 39% below the $42.9K average across 394 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 in computer science, engineering, or a related field with a minimum GPA of 3.0 is required, along with demonstrated programming proficiency in languages like Python. Relevant work experience or prerequisite coursework in data structures and algorithms is often preferred.

About This Program

This competency-based program focuses on the design and optimization of computing systems to meet the needs of the evolving AI industry. Coursework concentrates on Machine Learning and Deep Learning. Most students complete it in about 1.67 years.

At roughly $26.3K total, Western Governors University's MS in Computer Science - AI & ML Specialization sits below the $42.9K average among AI master's programs we track — the 36th percentile on price. That puts it in the mid-range on price among comparable programs.

It is one of 11 AI-related programs we track in Utah, of which about 36% offer an online option. On price, it comes in higher than about 55% of the Utah programs in our data, where typical tuition runs near $41.2K.

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

Implement machine learning models for predictive analytics and pattern recognition.

Career Outcomes

The MS in Computer Science - AI & ML Specialization at Western Governors University (Salt Lake City, Utah) is oriented toward AI Engineer hiring, with alumni reporting pay near $120,000. Its focus on Machine Learning and Deep 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. Machine Learning Engineer
• 2. AI Research Scientist
• 3. Data Scientist
• 4. AI Software Developer

What You'll Learn

• Implement machine learning models for predictive analytics and pattern recognition.
• Design and train deep neural networks for complex AI applications.
• Apply natural language processing techniques to process and generate human-like text.
• Develop AI systems using computer vision for image and video analysis.

Curriculum Highlights

The curriculum includes 10 courses covering formal languages, computer architecture, applied algorithms, and specialized themes in artificial intelligence.

Top Employers

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

Admissions

Admission to Western Governors University's MS in Computer Science - AI & ML Specialization generally expects a bachelor's degree. 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: Required
• Transcripts: Official transcripts required

Frequently Asked Questions