Master’s in Machine Learning Online: 6 Top Programs

In our modern digital age, the demand for professionals skilled in data analysis, pattern recognition, and predictive modeling is at an all-time high. As industries rely more on data-driven decision-making, pursuing a Master’s in Machine Learning Online has become a strategic choice for individuals seeking to advance their careers in fields such as artificial intelligence, data science, and computer engineering. With the flexibility of online learning platforms, students can dive into machine learning algorithms and techniques, and get the expertise needed to tackle complex real-world challenges. Read on to learn more about this field, and find the 6 best master’s in machine learning online. 

Article Navigation: AI vs ML vs Data Science: Which Degree is Right For You?  | Top 6 Master’s in Machine Learning Online | Graduate Certificate in ML vs Master’s in ML | Accreditation | Is a Master’s in Machine Learning Worth It? | Get Started on a Master’s in Machine Learning Today!

AI vs ML vs Data Science: Which Online Degree is Right For You?

As we explore the field of computer science, it’s important to distinguish between Artificial Intelligence (AI), Machine Learning (ML), and Data Science. These fields have unique characteristics and serve distinct purposes. In this section, we’ll explore the nuances between the three.

Online Machine Learning (ML) Degrees

Machine learning is a field of artificial intelligence focused on teaching computers to become smarter by learning from their mistakes. ML is important because it lets computers do different tasks without requiring programmers to write a different program for each task. The computer will try to complete the tasks by itself, learn from its mistakes, and get better at doing them over time.

For example, let’s say we want a computer to recognize what trees look like. We wouldn’t program the computer to recognize every tree from every angle, since that would take too much coding. An online master’s degree in machine learning teaches students to train the computer to recognize what trees look like overall. In doing so, it learns to recognize patterns and similarities between them.

In due time, it will catalog new trees based on those patterns. To prevent the computer from misidentifying the images, programmers adjust its parameters from time to time when it makes mistakes. This is a simplified example of what’s possible with an online master’s in machine learning program.

Online Artificial Intelligence (AI) Degrees

What is AI? AI stands for artificial intelligence, and it’s about creating machines that can do the same tasks that would normally require humans. Artificial intelligence can automate task completion and often do it without any need for human intervention.

Since AI can complete tasks faster and with higher accuracy than humans, it frees up time for other tasks. An example of AI would be virtual assistants such as Siri, Alexa, and Google Assistant. These virtual assistants are specifically designed to help answer your questions. They’re also responsible for helping with daily tasks, such as setting up reminders, playing music, and managing home devices.

Online Data Science Degrees

Data science analyzes large datasets to reveal hidden patterns and generate insights. These insights power predictions and inform crucial decisions across diverse fields like business, healthcare, and finance. Ultimately, data science empowers us to make better choices based on the knowledge gathered from data.

For example, many industries leverage data science to predict future events and understand past occurrences. They do this by analyzing historical data, identifying patterns, and building models that use these patterns to forecast future outcomes or explain past events. This allows businesses to make informed decisions and gain valuable insights from their data. For instance, businesses analyze customer purchase data to create better marketing strategies. In doing so, they find out which products are selling and which aren’t, and make decisions based on this knowledge.

Top 6 Master’s in Machine Learning Online

In the following section, we’ll explore the top six online Master’s programs in Machine Learning, each offering a rigorous curriculum, flexible learning options, and esteemed faculty to equip students with the skills and knowledge needed to excel in this evolving field.

1. George Mason University

   Accreditation: SACSCOC
   Tuition (In-State & Out-of-State): $29,610

   George Mason University offers a Master of Science in Applied Information Technology degree. This degree offers a concentration in the machine learning engineering area, which teaches students the best ways to apply machine learning in various industries. What’s more, this online master’s in machine learning program can be completed 100% online. It has a total of 30 credits, which is made up of 12 credits in core courses, and 18 credits in concentration courses.

   To qualify for this machine learning MS online program, you need to have an accredited bachelor’s degree with a 3.0 GPA score or higher. George Mason University accepts all applications on a rolling basis. In other words, there are no deadlines to submit your application. The school will evaluate applications as they come in, and will stop reviewing them once all the slots are filled.

   Additionally, they have a fast-track option for the MS machine learning online, which is available for students who’ve earned a bachelor’s with a GPA score of 3.0 or higher. However, this option is only available for students who have graduated from George Mason University. After completing this master’s in machine learning online program, you’ll be ready to pursue a career as a machine learning engineer.

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   Master of Science in Applied Information Technology / Machine Learning Engineering

    

2. Stevens Institute of Technology

   Accreditation: MSCHE
   Tuition (In-State & Out-of-State): $42,988

   The Stevens Institute of Technology was founded in 1870, and offers a Master of Science in Machine Learning degree. This master’s in machine learning online program is for students who enjoy working with AIs. You will be responsible for teaching AIs how to become better at doing certain tasks by learning from their mistakes. This program has a total of 30 credits. In order to finish this program, you need to complete four core courses, three core electives, and three general electives.

   To qualify for this MS machine learning online program, you must meet the general admission requirements. These requirements include having a bachelor’s degree with a minimum of 3.0 GPA, submitting official college transcripts, and two letters of recommendation. Graduates of this program work at leading companies such as Google, Facebook, and Amazon. After the completion of this MS in machine learning online program, you can find a career as a research scientist, machine learning engineer, or data scientist. Additionally, Stevens Institute of Technology is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

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   Master of Engineering in Machine Learning

    

3. University of Illinois at Chicago

   Accreditation: HLC
   Tuition (In-State & Out-of-State): $32,256

   The University of Illinois at Chicago was founded in 1982, and it offers a Master of Engineering /AI & Machine Learning degree. You will learn to create codes that utilize AI and machine learning to solve real-world issues. This master’s in machine learning online program has a total of 36 credits. There are a total of nine courses. Six of these courses focus on AI and machine learning topics, while the remaining three focus on leadership concepts.

   To qualify for this master’s in AI and machine learning online program, you will need a bachelor’s in engineering, or a field closely related to it. You will also need a minimum of a 3.0 GPA. Additionally, you’ll need at least two years of working experience after earning your bachelor’s.

   You can expect to complete this online master’s in AI and machine learning program in as little as 12 months. After the completion of this master’s degree in AI and machine learning online program, you can get a job as an AI research scientist, AI product manager, or computer vision engineer. And lastly, the University of Illinois at Chicago is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

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   Master of Engineering /AI & Machine Learning

    

4. Columbia University in the City of New York

   Accreditation: MSCHE
   Tuition (In-State & Out-of-State): $77,915

   Columbia University in the City of New York offers a Master of Science in Computer Science / Machine Learning. This online MS machine learning degree is ideal for computer science majors who want a graduate concentration in machine learning. This online program has a total of 30 credits, with 2 track courses, 2 track electives, with the remaining credits consisting of general electives.

   A bachelor’s degree with a minimum GPA of 3.3 is a requirement for admission. While a bachelor’s degree in computer science is preferred, it’s not mandatory. Instead, students must have completed at least four courses in computer science, and two courses in math. To enroll in this machine learning MS online program, you will also need to have at least three recommendation letters, official transcripts, a resume, and a statement about your professional background.

   Furthermore, Columbia University has no deadlines for applications. However, even though applications are accepted on a rolling basis, you should still submit your application 4 to 6 weeks before the semester you want to enroll for this online machine learning degree. To complete this program, you will need to maintain a minimum GPA of 2.7. Columbia University holds accreditation from the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

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   Master of Science in Computer Science / Machine Learning

    

5. Mercer University

   Accreditation: SACSCOC
   Tuition (In-State & Out-of-State): $24,552

   Mercer University was founded on January 14, 1833, and it offers the Master of Science in Applied Data Intelligence & Machine Learning. This online MS machine learning program is for students who want to solve real-world problems using data analysis and AI. This online degree in machine learning consists of 36 credits. You will need to complete 12 to 18 credits for the core courses, 15 credit hours for the self-designed courses, and finally 3 credits for the capstone.

   You’ll need a bachelor’s degree, official transcripts, a letter of recommendation, and a resume to enter the program. The term starts in January and August, and you can expect to complete this machine learning master’s degree online program within 18 to 24 months. Then, you’ll be able to get a job as an artificial intelligence researcher, an artificial intelligence specialist, or a computer scientist. Additionally, Mercer University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

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   Master of Science in Applied Data Intelligence & Machine Learning

    

6. Georgia Institute of Technology

   Accreditation: SACSCOC
   Tuition (In-State & Out-of-State): $6,604

   Georgia Institute of Technology offers a Master of Science in Computer Science / Machine Learning. This online MS machine learning program is for prospective students who want to specialize in machine learning. This machine learning degree online is not only affordable, but also 100% online. It has a total of 30 credits, which consist of two core courses, three machine-learning electives, and five free electives.

   You must have a bachelor’s degree, and submit transcripts to enroll in this master in machine learning online program. Additionally, you’ll need 3 letters of recommendations, and answer supplemental questions. If you’re looking to enroll for this online machine learning degree in the spring, the enrollment deadline is August 15. On the other hand, if you’re looking to enroll in the fall, it will be on March 15. Lastly, Georgia Institute of Technology is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

   Find Out More:
   Master of Science in Computer Science / Machine Learning

    

Online Graduate Certificate in ML Vs Master’s in Machine Learning

The difference between a Graduate Certificate in Machine Learning (ML) and an online Master’s in Machine Learning lies primarily in their scope, depth, and duration. A Graduate Certificate in ML is typically a shorter and more focused program, designed to provide students with a foundational understanding of key ML concepts, techniques, and applications.

These certificates often consist of a few courses or modules, covering essential topics such as data analysis, supervised and unsupervised learning, and model evaluation. They’re ideal for those looking to acquire specific skills in ML to enhance their existing expertise or transition into related roles within their current profession.

Finally, the admission requirements for a graduate certificate in ML are often less strict than a master’s in machine learning degree online. On the plus side, students can stack graduate certificates to complete a master’s degree.

On the other hand, an online machine learning master’s degree is a more comprehensive and in-depth program that delves deeply into various aspects of ML, including advanced algorithms, deep learning, natural language processing, and reinforcement learning. It typically requires a greater time commitment and involves completing a broader range of coursework, research projects, and sometimes a thesis or capstone project.

A Master’s degree in ML prepares students for leadership roles in the field. They gain a thorough understanding of theoretical concepts, practical skills, and the ability to contribute to the advancement of ML technologies.

Overall, while both options offer valuable education in ML, the Master’s degree in machine learning provides a more extensive and rigorous training experience, suitable for those seeking full immersion in the field.

Accreditation of Online Machine Learning Programs

As of yeet, there are no specific programmatic accreditors for machine learning online master’s programs. Furthermore, there aren’t any specific licensing requirements that you have to pursue after the completion of this type of education. However, accreditation is still important. In other words, verify the accreditation of any college or university you consider for your degree. This is something future employers will most certainly be looking for. But no need to worry! All of the schools in Get Educated’s database carry accreditation.

Is a Master’s in Machine Learning Online Worth It?

Earning an online master’s in this field is certainly worth it. It will open the door to many fulfilling careers.

For example, after you complete your online master’s degree in AI and machine learning, you can become an artificial intelligence developer. Artificial intelligence developers are responsible for making computer programs that automate tasks. Artificial intelligence developers’ salaries range from $102K to $163K per year.

Machine learning engineers design machine learning algorithms that can learn from their mistakes, just like humans. This makes jobs much easier for programmers since they won’t have to write different codes for similar tasks. The algorithm will be able to recognize patterns and slowly correct its own mistakes as it does its work. Machine learning engineers can make an average base salary of $161,382 per year.

Data science specialists work with large amounts of data to understand patterns and predict future events based on past data. That can be very useful for predicting different situations in various industries and organizations. Data science specialists’ salaries range from $101K to $152K.

Start a Master’s in Machine Learning Online Today!

Are you passionate about AI’s potential and eager to master it? Consider an online Master’s degree in Machine Learning. This degree empowers you to become a key player in shaping the future of technology. You’ll not only gain the skills to refine AI’s ability to analyze past data, but also to predict future trends. In doing so, you can impact various industries and solve real-world problems.

Imagine yourself at the forefront of innovation, collaborating with cutting-edge AI systems and driving significant advancements. So, don’t wait – start your career journey today. Enroll in an online MS Machine Learning program and unlock your potential to become a leading machine learning engineer.