Western Governors University

How this program compares

Western Governors University's MS in Software Engineering - AI Engineering lists about $17.5K total tuition — roughly 59% below the $42.9K AI master's average (16th percentile in our data). 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, software engineering, or a related field with a minimum GPA of 2.5-3.0 is required; relevant programming experience or prerequisites in data structures and algorithms may be expected.

About This Program

This program explores the integration of AI functionalities into existing software systems, focusing on automation and optimization for high performance. Coursework concentrates on Machine Learning and AI Ethics/Policy. Most students complete it in about 1.7 years.

Graduates frequently move into roles such as AI Engineer, with reported salaries around $135,000.

Design scalable software systems incorporating AI models.

Budget planners should note $17.5K estimated total tuition (16th percentile among AI master's programs, below the $42.9K average). That makes it one of the more affordable options for students weighing return on investment.

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 cheaper than about 91% of the Utah programs in our data, where typical tuition runs near $41.2K.

Career Outcomes

Graduates of Western Governors University's MS in Software Engineering - AI Engineering most often target AI Engineer roles, where reported compensation runs around $135,000. Its focus on Machine Learning and AI Ethics/Policy 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. AI Software Engineer
• 2. Machine Learning Engineer
• 3. Software Development Lead (AI Focus)
• 4. AI Systems Architect

What You'll Learn

• Design scalable software systems incorporating AI models
• Implement machine learning pipelines in engineering workflows
• Deploy and optimize AI-enhanced applications
• Apply ethical considerations to AI software development

Curriculum Highlights

The curriculum covers software architecture, product design, requirements engineering, and the unique challenges of iterative AI system development.

Top Employers

Top employers include tech leaders like Google, Microsoft, Amazon, and AI-driven firms such as OpenAI and NVIDIA.

Admissions

Admission to Western Governors University's MS in Software Engineering - AI Engineering 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