2024 Best Online Artificial Intelligence Degrees [AI Bachelor’s Guide]

By Dr. Brianna Anderson
Updated on February 24, 2024
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Explore the best online artificial intelligence degree programs for 2023. Discover how a degree in AI can open up career opportunities in various industries.

If you’re interested in using innovative technology to solve problems, you might consider earning an artificial intelligence degree.

Best Online Artificial Intelligence Degrees

Artificial intelligence specialists create and maintain self-learning machines that perform complex tasks and imitate human thought. The recent emergence of artificial intelligence tools like ChatGPT has led to an explosion of interest in the field from employers, scholars, and the public.

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An online artificial intelligence degree can help prepare you for an innovative career in this rapidly growing field.

Online Artificial Intelligence Degrees

Man taking Online Artificial Intelligence Degree

Artificial intelligence (AI) is an interdisciplinary field that blends cognitive science, computer science, mathematics, statistics, and other areas. Experts in this field theorize and build sophisticated computer systems that can perceive information and solve problems like a human.

AI offers many benefits for organizations and researchers. For instance, AI machines use advanced algorithms that allow them to learn as they process data and finetune their own operations. They can also complete repetitive tasks more quickly and often more accurately than a human, increasing productivity.

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Since this technology has many practical applications, AI career opportunities exist in many industries. For example, AI software can help financial institutions detect fraud. AI can also provide customized product recommendations, like music playlists or outfits tailored to a customer’s personality.

An online BS in Artificial Intelligence can help you gain relevant theoretical knowledge and technical skills. Coursework typically covers topics like these:

  • AI ethics
  • Big data
  • Calculus
  • Cognitive science
  • Computer architecture
  • Computer science
  • Data mining
  • Data structures
  • Deep learning
  • Information theory
  • Machine learning
  • Programming languages like Java, Julia, and LISP
  • Robotics
  • Signal processing
  • Statistics

Some programs offer concentrations or specializations related to AI. For instance, you could specialize in the ethics of artificial intelligence or machine learning.

A concentration can help you develop advanced knowledge in an area of interest and may help you better qualify for a preferred position. You could also participate in internships, faculty-supervised research projects, and programming events like hackathons. These activities can help you develop your technical skills and can provide opportunities to network with potential employers.

Graduates who earn online AI degrees pursue a variety of career paths, such as:

  • Artificial intelligence engineer
  • Big data engineer
  • Business intelligence analyst
  • Data analyst
  • Data scientist
  • Machine learning engineer
  • Software developer

This list is only a small sample of the many jobs that AI majors can explore. More career paths will likely emerge in the near future as AI experts develop new uses for this innovative technology. For instance, non-tech industries like education and healthcare increasingly use AI, which may lead to new career possibilities.

Artificial Intelligence Careers & Salaries

Artificial Intelligence Careers & Salaries

There is a range of career opportunities in artificial intelligence. Graduates with a degree in this field can find work in numerous industries, including automotive, aviation, e-commerce, energy, entertainment, finance, healthcare, insurance, logistics, manufacturing, and real estate.

Because so many industries hire AI specialists, you may be able to pursue a job in a sector that fits your goals and passions. For example, if you enjoy working with cars, you might help an automotive company develop AI-powered systems like adaptive cruise control. If you love video games, you might use AI to create more realistic non-player characters.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, here are the median salaries for several careers related to artificial intelligence.

Careers Annual Median Salaries
Computer and Information Research Scientists $131,490
Software Developers $120,730
Information Security Analysts $102,600
Database Administrators and Architects $101,000
Data Scientists $100,910
Computer Systems Analysts $99,270
Software Quality Assurance Analysts and Testers $98,220
Computer Programmers $93,000
Operations Research Analysts $82,360
Logisticians $77,030

The Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts that many AI-related jobs will experience rapid growth over the next ten years. For example, job openings for data scientists are projected to increase by 36% during this period.

Other career paths forecasted to expand during this period include logisticians (28% job growth), operations research analysts (23%), and computer and information research scientists (21%). While computer and information research scientists typically hold masters degrees, there may be positions available in the federal government for bachelor-degree holders.

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Many factors can influence job availability and median salaries, such as geographic area and work experience. You may increase your earning potential by pursuing a specialized career like a big data engineer, machine learning engineer, or robotics engineer.

Bachelor of Artificial Intelligence Curriculum & Courses

Bachelor of Artificial Intelligence students in the computer lab

All programs offering bachelor in artificial intelligence degrees have their own unique curriculum, but you may take courses like these as an AI major:

  • Artificial Intelligence Language Understanding: This course examines how AI machines use programming paradigms to interpret and extract information from human language texts, such as journal articles and textbooks.
  • Computers and Society: You’ll explore the evolution of computers and the influence of this technology on modern society.
  • Data Engineering in Python: You’ll learn foundational techniques and applications for the programming language Python, such as cleaning and visualizing complex data sets.
  • Data Mining: This course covers principles of data mining and teaches strategies and tools to gather and interpret information.
  • Database Organization: This course teaches you how to design databases, implement security measures, and use the SQL programming language to find information.
  • Ethics for Technology, Engineering, and Design: You’ll study ethical frameworks and learn strategies for making ethical decisions when developing and using technology.
  • Introduction to Algorithms: You’ll learn how to code, interpret, and implement computer algorithms.
  • Introduction to Data Science: This class provides an overview of methods and tools used to collect, clean, and extract insights from vast datasets.
  • Problem-Solving and Object-Oriented Programming: You’ll learn how to solve problems with complex algorithms and perform tasks like debugging programs and sorting data.
  • Software Engineering: You’ll analyze fundamental approaches and principles for software engineering, such as design methodologies and software requirements analysis.

Additionally, many BS in Artificial Intelligence programs require students to take several math courses, such as algebra and calculus.

Online AI Degree Admissions Requirements

Woman preparing her requirements for Online AI Degree

Every artificial intelligence program has its own admissions process, but here are a few common criteria:

  • High school diploma or GED
  • Letters of recommendation from your teachers or employer
  • Personal statement describing your career goals and relevant experience
  • Official ACT or SAT scores (not all schools require them)

Most programs also require you to complete an online application form and pay an application fee. You can research the requirements for a program of interest by visiting the school’s website or contacting the admissions office.

Accreditation

University offering Artificial Intelligence Degrees

As you research bachelors degrees in artificial intelligence, it’s beneficial to verify each school’s accreditation status. A higher education institution can receive regional accreditation if it passes a formal review by an external regional accrediting agency. Accredited schools have demonstrated that they provide a top-tier education that meets quality standards.

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Attending an accredited school can benefit you personally and professionally. It’s often necessary to be enrolled at an accredited school to qualify for financial assistance programs, like federal loans and grants. A degree from an accredited program can also boost your resume. The US Department of Education’s website provides more information about accreditation.

Artificial Intelligence Majors Financial Aid and Scholarships

Artificial Intelligence Majors Financial Aid

You might be eligible for financial assistance programs that can help reduce the financial cost of earning an artificial intelligence bachelors degree online.

Federal and state governments offer several kinds of financial aid, including grants and work-study programs. You may also qualify for government student loans, which often have lower interest rates than a loan from a private institution.

You can start exploring your options by completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).

In addition, most colleges offer grants and scholarships for eligible students. You may need to complete a separate application for these assistance programs, so it’s helpful to check with your school’s financial aid office to learn about relevant opportunities.

You might also qualify for scholarships from community organizations, professional associations, and other programs. For example, tech companies and industry organizations may provide scholarships for students pursuing careers in artificial intelligence.

What Is an AI Online Degree?

Software Developers with AI Online Degree

An artificial intelligence (AI) online degree is a program that expands your knowledge of computer science, ethics, machine learning, and other relevant topics.

A BS in Artificial Intelligence teaches you fundamental concepts, methods, and tools for creating AI systems. You can learn about various AI applications, including autonomous vehicles, facial recognition, fraud prevention, and visual pattern detection. These tools help organizations improve human lives and solve challenging issues.

As an AI major, you can gain numerous soft and technical skills, including collaboration, coding, and machine learning. These abilities are applicable to a variety of career paths.

If you already hold a bachelor’s degree in another field, but want to enter the AI profession, earning a graduate AI certificate online or on campus may be worth looking into. AI graduate certificate programs are designed to teach you the fundamentals of artificial intelligence and machine learning.

Is Artificial Intelligence a Good Career?

Computer Systems Analyst with AI Online Degree

Yes, artificial intelligence is a good career for many professionals. Jobs related to AI continue to be created every year. As a result of this field’s rapid job growth, there are plenty of opportunities to get involved in AI.

Many AI-associated jobs can earn lucrative salaries. For example, the Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that computer and information research scientists earn a median salary of $131,490, while data scientists make a median of $100,910. While a masters is often required for computer and information research scientists, a bachelors may be sufficient for positions in federal government.

Other potential career paths include AI consultant, algorithm specialist, data analyst, and machine learning engineer.

What Degree Do You Need to Work in Artificial Intelligence?

artificial intelligence bachelors degree online students

Many students who want to work in AI pursue a BS in Artificial Intelligence. This degree teaches foundational approaches and theories in AI, computer science, and machine learning. You may also be able to complete an internship and join extracurricular groups, like a programming club.

Graduates who earn an artificial intelligence bachelors degree online often qualify for entry-level tech jobs. An online masters in artificial intelligence allows you to develop advanced knowledge and skills. This degree may help you qualify for more senior positions or serve as a stepping stone toward a PhD in Artificial Intelligence.

What Can You Do with a Bachelor’s in Artificial Intelligence Degree?

Information Security Analysts working in their office

A BS in Artificial Intelligence can unlock many career opportunities in the tech industry. Graduates can also work in many other sectors, including aviation, cybersecurity, finance, healthcare, and transportation.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, many AI-related jobs are expected to experience rapid job growth in the next ten years. For instance, job openings for software developers are expected to increase by 26%. This growth is much faster than average.

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Other potential career paths for an AI major include computer vision engineer, research scientist, machine learning engineer, data scientist, AI engineer, and business intelligence analyst.

How Long Does It Take to Get a Bachelor’s Degree in Artificial Intelligence Online?

student taking Bachelor's Degree in Artificial Intelligence Online

Several factors can impact how long it takes you to complete an online degree in AI. If your school has a traditional 16-week semester, you can typically complete a bachelors degree in 4 years if you enroll full-time.

You may be able to graduate more quickly if you follow an 8-week semester and take classes year-round, including during the summer. It will typically take longer to finish your degree if you study part-time, but this option may be more convenient if you work or have other responsibilities during your program.

What’s the Difference Between a Major in Artificial Intelligence vs. Data Science?

Artificial intelligence and data science have a few similarities, but they involve different approaches and career paths.

Artificial Intelligence Major Data Science Major
  • Uses self-learning machines to complete complex processes
  • Broader skill set involving programming, software engineering, and other abilities
  • Opens up numerous career paths, like big data analyst and bioinformatics scientist
  • Focuses on analyzing information to make data-driven decisions
  • Narrower skillset focusing on data management, analysis, and visualization
  • Has more limited career paths, such as data analyst and data architect

If you want to build and use intelligent computer programs, an AI major may be a good fit. If you feel data science is more to your liking, a growing number of universities offer data science masters degree online and on-campus programs.

What’s the Difference Between a Robotics vs. AI Online Degree?

There are a few overlaps between AI and robotics degrees, but the fields are distinct.

Online Robotics Degrees Online AI Degrees
  • Learn how to develop robots that can complete autonomous or semi-autonomous processes
  • Main goal is to boost efficiency
  • May lead to work in the automotive, manufacturing, or robotics industries
  • Study how to create complex technology that mimics human decision-making and thought
  • Primary aim is to make technology more human-like
  • May lead to work in many industries, from aviation to telecommunications

Both degrees can lead to rewarding careers, but an AI degree has a broader scope.

Is an Online Degree in Artificial Intelligence Worth It?

Data Scientists discussing in their office

Yes, an online degree in artificial intelligence is worth it for many students. AI offers plentiful career opportunities in a wide variety of industries. Demand for AI experts will likely continue to grow in the near future as researchers develop new uses for this cutting-edge technology.

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AI majors may pursue a number of positions, such as computer research scientist, computer programmer, software developer, data scientist, or machine learning engineer. Data scientists and software developers are projected to see 36% and 26% job growth, respectively, over the next ten years (Bureau of Labor Statistics). This is much faster than the average growth for all occupations.

Universities Offering Online Bachelors in Artificial Intelligence Degree Programs

Methodology: The following school list is in alphabetical order. To be included, a college or university must be regionally accredited and offer degree programs online or in a hybrid format.

Bellevue College

Bellevue College campus

Bellevue College offers a BAS in Software Development with a concentration in Artificial Intelligence. The program is fully online. The BS is a degree completion program, so applicants need an associate degree in a related field. Classes are offered in semester quarters with fall, winter, spring, and summer start dates.

Bellevue College is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities.

Berkeley College

Berkeley College campus

Berkeley College offers a BS in Business Data Science with a concentration in Artificial Intelligence that can be completed fully online. The program requires the completion of 120 credit hours. It follows a semester schedule with start dates in the fall, spring, and summer. It also offers opportunities for internship and work experiences.

Berkeley College is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

Colorado State University

Colorado State University campus

Colorado State University offers a BS in Computer Science with a concentration in Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning. The program is fully online and features a mix of synchronous and asynchronous components. The program requires the completion of 120 credits. Courses follow a regular semester schedule and offer start dates in the fall, spring, and summer.

Colorado State University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Dakota State University

Dakota State University campus

Dakota State University aims to be at the forefront of emergent technologies with its BS in Artificial Intelligence. The program may be completed online or on campus. It requires the completion of 120 credits, including 8 credits of electives. Courses in the fall and spring are 16 weeks long, while summer courses are 4 to 12 weeks long.

Dakota State University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Davenport University

Davenport University campus

Davenport University offers a BS in Computer Science with a concentration in Artificial Intelligence through its Global Campus. The program is available fully online, but live classes may be attended on campus. Courses are asynchronous, but many offer live virtual lectures, and they are typically 7 weeks long.

Davenport University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Indiana University

Indiana University campus

U.S. News & World Report named Indiana University one of the best schools for online bachelor’s degree programs. IU offers a BA in Artificial Intelligence that may be earned fully online. The program requires the completion of 120 credit hours and a project, a thesis, or an internship. Courses follow a semester schedule.

Indiana University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Kansas State University

Kansas State University campus

Kansas State University offers a Bachelor’s in Machine Learning and Autonomous Systems with Web Development and Computational Core tracks. The program is entirely online, and all courses are offered in an asynchronous format. Students must complete 120 credit hours. Courses are offered in 8 or 16 week blocks with multiple start dates each year.

Kansas State University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Maryville University

Maryville University campus

Maryville University offers a BS in Computer Science. The program includes a built-in certificate in Artificial Intelligence. The program is fully online. It requires the completion of 128 credits, including a capstone project. Courses are conducted in an asynchronous format, and most students take one class per term. Potential courses include Deep Learning and Introduction to Robotics.

Maryville University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

South College

South College campus

South College offers a BS in Computer Science with a concentration in Artificial Intelligence that may be completed entirely online. Courses are offered in an asynchronous format and are either 5 or 11 weeks long. Potential classes include Decision Networks and Graphs and Predictive Analytics.

South College is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

St. Cloud State University

Saint Cloud State University campus

St. Cloud State University offers a BS in Computer Science with a specialization in Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning. Many of the courses are fully online and asynchronous, but some courses must be taken on campus. Classes follow a semester schedule in the fall and spring with two blocks during the summer.

St. Cloud State University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

University of Arizona

University of Arizona campus

U.S. News & World Report named the University of Arizona as having one of the best online programs for bachelor’s degrees in the nation. UA offers a BAS in Applied Computing with an emphasis in Applied Artificial Intelligence. The program is fully online. Up to 60 qualifying credits may be transferred in toward the program’s 120 required credits.

The University of Arizona is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Wilmington University

Wilmington University campus

Wilmington University offers a BS in Computer Science with a concentration in Artificial Intelligence. The program is fully online, but some courses may be taken on campus. Courses are offered in 15 week semesters or 7 week blocks with up to six start dates per year. Up to 90 qualifying credits may be transferred in toward the program’s 120 required credits.

Wilmington University is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

Getting Your Bachelors in Artificial Intelligence Degree Online

student completing his Bachelor in Artificial Intelligence Degree Online

If you want to work with the newest technology, you might be interested in an online degree in AI. This degree program allows you to dive deeply into the theories and tools shaping AI applications.

As an AI major, you can gain expertise in computer science, mathematics, machine learning, and other fascinating subjects. The skills you can develop during your bachelors program can help prepare you for careers in a broad range of industries, such as finance, insurance, and real estate.

You can start the next phase of your professional journey by researching accredited programs that offer bachelor in artificial intelligence degrees.

Ready to start your journey?