What can you do with a masters in artificial intelligence?
Written by: Amanda Phagan, Edited by: Marie Custodio Collazo
Published: March 20, 2025
These days, you can't go a week without hearing about a new and exciting development in artificial intelligence (AI). Despite recent media coverage, this branch of computer science has been around for decades — and, yes, you can even get a degree in AI. Read on to learn what you can do with a master's in artificial intelligence.
What jobs can you get with an online master's in artificial intelligence?
As more industries integrate AI into their daily workflows, careers in artificial intelligence will likely evolve. An online master's in artificial intelligence program can prepare you for the following lucrative roles:
AI engineer
AI engineers develop programs and predictive models that improve how machines process information, perform tasks, recognize patterns, and solve problems. AI engineers should be proficient with the following:
- Programming languages such as Python, Java, and R
- Machine learning
- Problem-solving
- Data analysis
- Natural language processing
AI developer
AI developers design and implement artificial intelligence programs to perform duties such as making predictions based on data. AI developers should be proficient with the following:
- Machine learning
- Neural networks
- Data structures and algorithms
- Programming languages such as Python, Java, and R
- Mathematics — especially statistics
Computer and information research scientist
Computer and information research scientists create and improve software and hardware. They also use machine-learning techniques to solve complex problems. Computer and information research scientists should be proficient with the following:
- Problem-solving and experimentation
- Machine learning
- Data science techniques
- Data analysis
- Business communications
Data scientist
Data scientists use machine learning to collect and interpret large quantities of data, gain valuable insights, and share findings with key stakeholders. Data scientists should be proficient with the following:
- Data visualization
- Big data technologies such as Hadoop and Apache Spark
- Programming languages such as Python, Java, and R
- Mathematics — especially statistics
- Machine learning
AI consultant
AI consultants assist organizations with strategies for using artificial intelligence to increase efficiency, reduce costs, and streamline repetitive tasks. AI consultants should be proficient with the following:
- Machine learning
- Communication
- Business acumen
- Problem-solving
- Business analytics
What is the salary range with a master's in artificial intelligence?
Master's in AI graduates — depending on their experience, industry, and employer — can earn higher-than-average salaries. If you plan to apply your master's in AI to a data science, computer and information research scientist, or software developer role, your yearly salary can exceed six figures. Per the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), these four roles earned the following median annual salaries in 2023:
- Data scientists: $108,020
- Computer and information research scientists: $145,080
- Software developers: $132,270
- Quality assurance analysts, and testers: $101,800
Opportunities for advancement with a master's in artificial intelligence
Your career in artificial intelligence doesn't have to begin or end with a master's in AI. AI boot camps can equip you with in-demand tech skills — often on your own timeline and within 24 weeks. In just 8-10 weeks, you can also complete an AI MicroBootCamp. In addition to AI executive education options, you can earn an AI professional certificate. This can bolster your résumé and show employers you are committed to learning the latest AI technology. Want to advance your programming skills? Explore available coding boot camps.