Bachelor’s in artificial intelligence degrees

A bachelor's in artificial intelligence can help prepare you for some of the most in-demand careers in the information technology sector. These programs combine data science, machine learning, and AI principles to provide you with a foundation and skillset for the future.

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Why earn a bachelor's in AI online?

Develop in-demand skills

Pick up critical skills in areas where many employers have experienced a shortage of qualified professionals.

Expand your career options

Prepare for careers in emerging industries, such as machine learning and robotics.

Learn on your schedule

Complete courses in an asynchronous format or in a synchronous format outside of standard work hours.

What can you do with an artificial intelligence degree?

A bachelor's in artificial intelligence (AI) can equip you with the skills to develop and deploy problem-solving systems and applications using large amounts of data.

A bachelor's in artificial intelligence can lead to work in many industries, including business, healthcare, technology, and agriculture. AI professionals may become AI engineers who design AI systems and solutions, data scientists who collect and analyze data, or AI ethicists who ensure that these systems are used responsibly.

Earning a bachelor's in AI may also lead to or complement AI certificates, certifications, or other degrees, such as a master's in artificial intelligence.

Here are some possible job titles that AI graduates may hold:

AI researcher
AI specialist
Data engineer
Data analyst
Machine learning engineer

Salary expectations for AI professionals

Salaries for graduates with bachelor's in artificial intelligence vary by position, industry, experience, and location. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual salary for computer and information technology occupations was $105,990, as of May 2024.

In terms of specific and relevant AI positions, the BLS reported a median annual salary of $98,670 for computer programmers, $112,590 for data scientists, and $131,450 for software developers during that same period.

Career outlook for AI professionals

The Bureau projects 36% growth in data scientist occupations and 17% in software developer occupations between 2023–33. Both projections substantially outpace the 4% average projected growth for all occupations.

Even in fields where AI may reduce demand, such as computer programming, with a BLS-projected decline of 10% between 2023–33, AI specialists may capitalize on the integration of AI across industries and find job opportunities.

What do you learn in an undergraduate AI program?

While every bachelor's in artificial intelligence has its own curriculum and focus, most programs cover the basics of computer science, programming, and statistics while also exploring machine learning, language processing, and neural networks.

The typical bachelor's in artificial intelligence includes 120 credits over four years of study. You can develop AI-critical skills, such as programming, systems development and management, information processing, and deep learning. Depending on your program, you may also be able to specialize in areas like robotics or vision and language.

Studying artificial intelligence online

An online bachelor's in artificial intelligence may provide more scheduling flexibility than a traditional on-campus program. Some programs run asynchronously and allow you to study on your own schedule, while others run synchronously during the evenings or weekends.

Online artificial intelligence programs also require little to no travel, which can reduce your costs and open the door to schools and programs from farther away.

Online students may interact with their peers and instructors less than they would in an in-person program and tend to require more independence and self-discipline from students.

Furthering your education in AI

Once you earn a bachelor's in artificial intelligence, you can further your education by pursuing a master's degree in AI or data science. This may lead to leadership positions and more advanced roles, such as computer and information research scientist.

Master's programs in artificial intelligence also may offer opportunities to specialize in an area of your choosing. This can result in higher impact roles and higher earnings.

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Frequently asked questions

What is a bachelor's in artificial intelligence?

A bachelor's in artificial intelligence program helps you build the mathematical and computer foundations to use AI technologies and techniques. For example, these programs may equip you with the programming and administration skills and expertise required to develop and manage AI tools and systems.

Is a bachelor's in artificial intelligence worth it?

While the value of a bachelor's in AI varies based on your career goals, aspiring information technology professionals may find value in a bachelor's in artificial intelligence.

AI skills are some of the most in-demand information technology skills, and AI continues to be integrated across numerous industries. Many of the roles that bachelor's in AI graduates can pursue also report higher than average salaries.

How hard is an artificial intelligence degree?

An artificial intelligence degree can be challenging due to the advanced technical concepts covered and the intensity of the training. To succeed, students should have an interest in and a basic understanding of computer science and mathematics.

What should I study if I want to go into AI?

If you want to pursue a career in AI, you might start with a bachelor's in artificial intelligence or a related discipline like computer or data science. You can prepare for your undergraduate program with training in programming, mathematics, and introductory machine learning.

Do I need a bachelor's degree to work in AI?

You may find opportunities in AI that do not require a bachelor's degree, but most computer and information technology occupations require a bachelor's degree at minimum. Some employers prefer or even require applicants to hold a master's degree.

Published July 23, 2025