Artificial intelligence or AI is continually growing and evolving. In order to get ahead of ever-changing AI, colleges and universities are starting to offer artificial intelligence as a degree. Keep reading to learn everything you need to know about AI degrees.
What is AI?
Artificial intelligence, more commonly referred to as “AI”, is a type of technology that mimics human intelligence through generating, classifying, and performing complex tasks such as image analysis and problem solving.
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What is an AI Degree?
Artificial intelligence, or AI technology, has grown exponentially and is continuing to impact daily life. In fact, AI can play a role in many fields such as business, newscasting, education, advertising and much more. In order to keep up with the ever-changing world, colleges and universities are now offering degrees specializing in AI.
To work with AI, students typically major in computer science, computer engineering, or robotics. More recently, there is the opportunity for students to obtain degrees in AI. Essentially, an AI degree is an associate’s, bachelors or master’s degree specializing in Artificial Intelligence.
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Associate’s degree in AI
Associate’s AI degree programs are more rare than other degree programs due to the new nature of AI.
Overview of a typical program
- 60-80 credits
- 2 years of full-time study
- AI-specific classes as well as gen-ed requirements
Job opportunities
- Entry-level AI software jobs
- Entry-level engineering
- Entry-level project management
Check out: What can I do with an associate degree?
Bachelor’s degree in AI
Bachelor’s degrees in AI are becoming increasingly popular majors for colleges and universities to offer. An AI bachelor’s degree combines general education classes with learning in-depth AI products and programming.
Overview of a typical program
- 120 credits
- 4 years of full-time study
Job opportunities
- Computer programming
- Data scientist
- Forensic computer analyst
- AI engineer
Master’s degree in AI
A master’s degree in AI is catered towards individuals who want to obtain a leadership position in roles that involve AI.
Overview of the program
- 30-60 credits
- 1-2 years of full-time study
Job opportunities
- Lead engineers
- Algorithm developers
- AI research scientists
Read more: Is a master’s degree worth it?
What jobs can you get with an AI Degree?
There are many job opportunities for AI degree graduates. However, typically students will move onto some sort of computer career. Here is a list of the most popular careers AI degree graduates will move onto:
Computer programming
Computer programmers write and test codes and scripts for computer software to be able to function properly.
- 2023 median pay: $99,700
- Projected growth (2023-2033): -10%
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Data scientist
Data scientists obtain data and extract meaningful insights from it. Typically, data scientists will develop algorithms for computers to help categorize data.
- 2023 median pay: $108,020
- Projected growth (2023-2033): 36% (much faster than the average)
Computer analyst
Computer analysts analyze an organization’s computer system to improve the efficiency of those programs.
- 2023 median pay: $103,800
- Projected growth (2023-2033): 11% (much faster than the average)
Web developers
Web developers develop, create, and test websites.
- 2023 median pay: $98,540
- Projected growth (2023-2033): 8% (faster than the average)
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Computer and information research scientists
Computer and information research scientists design new ways to use new and existing technology.
- 2023 median pay: $145,080
- Projected growth (2023-2033): 26% (much faster than average)
Also see: Scholarships360 career guide
Do you need a degree in AI?
The answer to this question depends on your personal career goals and circumstances. AI is an interdisciplinary field, meaning it combines a variety of subjects such as computer science and mathematics. Therefore, having a degree in a related field can provide you a good foundation for being able to work in AI-related careers.
Studying AI grants you specialized knowledge that gives you a competitive edge in the job market. However, AI is a very specific major with an extremely specialized focus. Therefore, it may not be beneficial if you want to branch away from AI later on in your career.
Alternative degrees:
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What are some alternatives to a degree in AI?
If you are interested in pursuing a career in AI, it’s beneficial to learn as much about the subject as possible! However, if you are not interested in receiving an AI degree there are alternative ways to learn all you need to know about AI.
Internships
There are many entry-level internships available in the field of AI. This can be a great working experience to get to know AI at a company and learn the ins and outs of the industry. Additionally, an internship is a great opportunity to expand your resume or even receive a full-time job offer in a field that interests you.
Check out: Why are internships important? Everything you need to know
Bootcamps
Coding boot camps offer training in computer science topics such as programming and web development. Instead of taking the years for a degree, bootcamps typically last a few weeks to a few months. Coding bootcamps are a great way to immerse yourself in the world of AI and coding without a lengthy time commitment.
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Online research
The internet is a great place to start learning about AI! There are millions of free websites, videos, and programs that provide great insight into all things AI. For $49.00, you can take Google and Coursera’s Fundamentals of AI class. So, if you are interested in learning more about AI, try to self-research and teach yourself all you can about it!
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Frequently asked questions about AI Degrees
What are the prerequisites for an AI degree?
What is the salary like for graduates with an AI degree?
