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Online Master of Science in Artificial Intelligence

100% Online

Part-Time

Complete in Under 2 Years

Admission Decision in 2 Weeks

Master Applied AI in a World-Class Engineering Program

  • Develop expertise in AI, machine learning, natural language processing and a chosen concentration.
  • Gain perspective through an interdisciplinary curriculum that draws from computer science and other engineering disciplines.
  • Benefit from a program that blends advanced theory with practical application.
  • Learn from globally recognized leaders in AI.
  • Specialize in the physical practice of AI (infrastructure) or the digital practice of AI (computing and finance).

AI is quickly transforming how organizations compete and innovate. Columbia Engineering’s online Master of Science in Artificial Intelligence prepares you to meet the urgent need for leadership in this important field. You’ll learn to build and deploy intelligent systems, as well as provide guidance at the intersection of AI, ethics, and society.

This program is designed for professionals with experience in computer science and software engineering, as well as those from other STEM fields. It includes specialized curriculum paths for industry application and an optional two-semester capstone project which delivers a robust, hands-on consulting experience.

You understand the transformative power of AI. Shift into a true AI expert with a program employers respect, and accelerate your career.

See why Columbia Engineering is leading the future of AI. Our AI Demo Session showcases Columbia Engineering's innovations in computer vision, robotics, sensing and sustainability. 

Upcoming Dates

Next Start Date
Sept. 8, 2026

Priority App Deadline
TBA

Regular App Deadline
Aug. 15, 2026

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PROGRAM
Online MS in Artificial Intelligence

LENGTH
Five terms (about two years)

REQUIREMENTS
30-credits: Four core courses, and six electives, or four electives and a capstone project

CONTACT
+1 (212) 854-6447​
engineeringonline@columbia.edu

Online MS in Artificial Intelligence

Columbia Engineering designed the MSAI for those with technical expertise who want to pivot into AI-focused roles. Because of the high technical bar for admission, you move through the program with a cohort of equally advanced, experienced peers.

Students in the MSAI program take four core courses and at least four electives. Students may also pursue a six-credit, two-semester capstone project that pairs them with a faculty mentor and involves finding solutions to a challenge faced by an industry partner. The capstone is meant to operate more like an internship than a standard capstone project.

There are two program start dates per year, in the fall and spring. In addition to technical courses, you learn about AI-related ethical, security and governance issues.

Core Courses

Why Pursue an Online MS in Artificial Intelligence From Columbia Engineering?

Programs in the Fu Foundation School of Engineering and Applied Science have a global reputation for academic excellence and intellectual rigor. In the online MSAI program, key features include:

  • Faculty experts who are defining the future of AI, including directors from Columbia’s Data Science Institute and the Vice Dean of Artificial Intelligence.
  • The ability to focus on the physical practice of AI (infrastructure) or the digital practice of AI (advanced computing or finance and operations).
  • A program that moves beyond theory to practical application, including an optional, robust, 2-semester capstone project where students face real-world challenges.
  • An advanced and selective cohort of peers.
  • Access to Columbia’s AI research centers/initiatives that could involve partnering with real-world organizations.
  • A five-term structure that allows students to earn an advanced degree without pausing the rest of their lives.
  • Self-paced and live sessions with instructors.
  • A dedicated student support team.

Career Outlook in AI

With the rapid growth in the use of AI, MS in Artificial Intelligence graduates have many opportunities to use their degree. Potential careers with an MSAI include:

  • Artificial Intelligence / Machine Learning (AI/ML) Engineer
  • AI Applied Scientist
  • AI Research Scientist
  • Robotics Engineer
  • Computer Vision Engineer
  • AI Operations Lead (MLOps)
  • NLP (Natural Language
    Processing) Specialist
  • AI Architect
  • AI Product Manager
  • Quantitative Analyst (AI/ML)
  • AI Ethicist / Governance Specialist
  • Data Scientist, AI Focus
  • Fraud Detection Analyst (AI)
  • Risk Analytics Manager (AI)
  • Fintech AI Engineer
  • HealthTech AI Specialist
  • AI Consultant
  • AI Software Developer
  • Generative AI Engineer
  • AI Technical Lead

Tuition and Financial Aid - 2026 Costs

Tuition per Credit
$2,700

Tuition for the 30-credit MSAI program
$81,000

Application Fee
Waived

Tuition

Tuition per Credit

Tuition for the 30-credit MSAI program

Application Fee

Amount

$2,700

$81,000

Waived

Build Your Future in AI With Columbia Engineering

Columbia Engineering’s online Master of Science in Artificial Intelligence is built for technically proficient professionals ready to deepen their expertise and lead where AI meets ethics, security, and society. The program focuses on practical application and sharpening the skills to design, evaluate, and deploy responsible AI at scale. You also tap into the strength of the Columbia Engineering network. That includes an unparalleled connection to key New York City industries that are high adopters of AI, including fintech, healthcare, media, law, and policy.

Request more information to explore program details, admissions requirements, and how the online MSAI can help you become part of the next generation of AI leadership.

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“[Columbia’s] courses are full of smart people and you have to really work hard to get a decent grade. Going through the motions of staying disciplined, working hard, and so on, it prepares you for pretty much everything in life.”

— Apoorv Agarwal MS 2009, PhD 2016