Edited By Christine Skopec
Review & Contribution By Ryan Adams
Elevate your expertise with a dynamic Master’s in Machine Learning Online program. Advance in AI and data science from anywhere.
Machine learning is a domain that has innovated the modern world in many ways. It is one of the subsets of artificial intelligence that focuses on different statistical techniques to build intelligent systems of computers and learn from various databases. Master’s in machine learning online programs are intended for those students who want to develop knowledge of machine learning applications and techniques. Students learn to innovate, design, and apply machine learning principles in fraud detection, intelligent systems, perception, finance, information retrieval, etc. Through the online master’s in machine learning program, students can learn about data analysis, an algorithm for NLP, an advanced introduction to machine learning, and so on.
Table Of Contents
Featured Online Programs
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Southern New Hampshire University
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Southern New Hampshire University is a private, nonprofit, accredited institution with more than 3,000 on campus students, over 170,000 online students, making it one of the fastest growing universities in the nation. Founded in 1932, we’ve been relentlessly reinventing higher education ever since and have gained national recognition for our dedication to helping students transform their lives and the lives of those around them.
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National University
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National University, headquartered in San Diego, California, was founded in 1971 to provide educational opportunities for adult learners and working professionals. It offers over 190 degree programs, including bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees, with flexible online and on-campus courses. Serving around 40,000 students and over 240,000 alumni, the university is recognized for its support of U.S. military members. Accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC), National University is committed to accessible and transformative higher education.
Find the Best Master’s in Machine Learning Online Programs
Choosing the best master’s program is crucial for students as it brings immense opportunities into the field of machine learning. While choosing graduate programs across the United States, they should consider factors like the program’s curriculum, quality of the faculty employed, research opportunities, program cost, master’s scholarship, graduate assistantships, and other factors. FBD teams have evaluated colleges and degrees from all over the U.S. and, using a proprietary methodology, prepared a list of schools offering the best master’s in machine learning online:
| Univ | Address | Tuition | Grad Rate |
| Georgia Institute of Technology | 225 North Ave, Atlanta, Georgia 30332 | $14,064 | 93% |
Universities and programs are ranked by various factors, such as affordability, curriculum and coursework, reputation and availability, program length, statistics, the potential of employment, and return on investment for the students. For a more in-depth analysis, please read about our rankings methodology page.
What to Expect from a Master’s in Machine Learning Online Degree Program
The machine learning online master program will help students by equipping them with the skills required to analyze and gather vast amounts of data and make wise decisions. This program enables individuals to apply data science techniques in their field of interest. It’s available online, offline, and hybrid modes, typically completed in two years with 30-60 credits. Most institutions offer synchronous and asynchronous learning methods. As it’s a master’s program, it may include both thesis and non-thesis options. Completion entails a capstone project, original research, and interaction with industry experts. A wide range of elective tracks focuses on real-world experience within the machine learning degree. Upon completion, graduates can apply for various positions, including data scientist, machine learning engineer, computational linguist, business intelligence developer, etc.
Curriculum and Coursework
A master’s in machine learning helps students prepare for a highly demanding career in machine learning. Students advance their knowledge of machine learning through advanced curriculum, teaching, and writing. The coursework gives an elemental understanding of artificial intelligence, computer science, systems, theory of computation, programming languages, logic, etc. Students can expect a versatile curriculum with this program to help them get more advanced machine learning skills. The knowledge of tools gained from this coursework helps them manage, evaluate, and gain new insights from data. An online master in machine learning program offers varying courses, some of which are:
Machine Learning
This course helps students understand machine learning’s history, important applications, definitions, and recent challenges within businesses. Students learn how machine learning algorithms work by learning about deep learning, neural networks, and related topics. They also grasp different model optimization processes and other machine learning methods, such as supervised, semi-supervised, and reinforcement machine learning.
Algorithms
This course explores advanced algorithms fundamental to the field. Covering topics such as data organization methods, streaming algorithms, dynamic programming, and graph models, students gain expertise in algorithmic design crucial for solving complex machine learning problems effectively across various domains.
Introduction to Natural Language Processing
In this course, students learn how to use social media platforms’ textual data, digitize administrative and historical records, and use new monitoring technologies to make decisions and gain insights. Students understand the ability of computer programs to comprehend human language as it is written and spoken and explore the diverse NLP-powered software aiding in daily life, such as personal assistants like Cortana, Google Assistant, Siri, etc.
Statistical Inference and Modeling
This course will cover the basics of statistical testing and inference, introducing statistical models and topics like hypothesis testing and more. It also uses real data through lecture discussions and capstone projects. Students grasp the various statistical models, assumptions, and observed and similar data generation.
Data visualization
In this course, students cultivate the ability to think skeptically and critically about the questions that need to be answered about the data projects and the strategies to use them. They will be able to learn principles about how to implement data visualization techniques and real analysis using the software. This exploratory data analysis and visualization course teaches programming, the layered grammar of graphics, fundamentals of data visualization, model visualization, and more.
Some of the other courses available in the online master in machine learning program are:
- Programming for Data Science
- Applicable Mathematics
- Random Signals and Noise
- Programming, Data Structures, and Algorithms in C++
- Ethics in Data Science and Artificial Intelligence
- Supervised Learning
- Exploratory Data Visualization And Analytics
- Bayesian Methods and Computation
- Deep Learning
- Probabilistic Machine Learning
- Vector Space Methods with Applications
- Supervised Learning
- Image and Video Computing
- Unsupervised Learning
- Learning Agents
- Graph Algorithms
- Computational Complexity Theory
Learning Outcomes and Skills Gained
Through the program, students learn about the mathematical basics of big data and practical programming lessons and skills in statistics, information theory, and machine learning. The graduate program will help students develop the necessary skills to make intelligent, informed decisions and analyses related to critical concerns in machine learning. The program makes professionals capable of developing businesses and solving other problems, which will help them grow. Upon completing the program, graduates will develop diverse skills, including:
- Applying analytical and critical thinking to resolve complex machine learning and artificial intelligence issues.
- Effectively communicating and collaborating with stakeholders to analyze data and develop relevant models.
- Demonstrating professionalism and ethical conduct in problem-solving and dataset management.
- Exhibiting divergent thinking and a deep understanding of machine learning principles, fostering continuous learning and growth.
- Integrating machine learning theories to extract valuable insights and identify opportunities for organizations and individuals.
- Using theoretical knowledge to address real-world problems, process data, and devise optimal solutions.
- Demonstrating proficiency in programming, computational methods, software systems, and machine learning concepts.
- Efficiently handling data to generate accurate predictions and making informed decisions based on comprehensive analysis.
Types of Master’s Degrees Machine Learning Students Can Obtain
Earning a master’s degree in machine learning is one of the best ways to develop the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in this challenging, exciting, and complex industry. In the United States, the Master of Science or MS in Machine Learning is the most common machine learning master online program. This program allows students to advance their skills and training in machine learning. Machine Learning is often found as a specialization of artificial intelligence, data science, computer science, and more programs.
Master of Science or MS in Machine Learning
The Master of Science (MS) in Machine Learning equips students with the skills necessary to explore, manage, analyze, and visualize large datasets using advanced technologies. Integrated courses spanning mathematics, statistics, and computer science enable students to tackle complex issues. Additionally, as part of the curriculum, students learn to identify data patterns, machine learning algorithm trends, and other pertinent topics such as big data, visualization, and capstone projects.
Areas of Specialization in Machine Learning
Academic specializations represent an academic institution’s focused study area, defining the field in which individuals practice. As individuals specialize, they master unique and specific skills, enhancing their expertise and expanding employment opportunities. Specializations within the master’s degree in machine learning online may be limited. Machine learning is a concentration within master’s programs in artificial intelligence, data science, and computer science, among others. Individuals opt for this specialization to pursue technical careers, mastering data structures, advanced automation, pattern recognition, and applying algorithms and models to address complex challenges in the field.
Full-Time and Part-Time Programs
Most online machine learning master’s programs span two years for full-time students. However, those pursuing their master’s part-time may require more than two years to fulfill the curriculum. Additionally, the duration of the program can vary based on the elective courses selected, the number of credits completed each semester, and the chosen area of concentration. Furthermore, including synchronous and asynchronous learning modes can also influence the overall duration of the program. Here is a summary of the amount of time it would take for candidates to complete the program:
- Time to complete a part-time online master’s in machine learning: more than two years
- Time to complete a full-time master’s in machine learning: two years or less
Accelerated Master’s in Machine Learning Programs
Accelerated programs help students to complete their degrees in much less time than the designated two years of curriculum completion. It will allow them to complete the program while ensuring they have time for their other priorities. Such accelerated programs will also help students complete more credit in a shorter period. The cost of accelerated programs is lower, which is one of the major reasons students prefer such programs. Few institutions, including Carnegie Mellon University[1] and Northeastern University[2], provide online master’s in machine learning that students can complete in less than two years.
Requirements for Getting into a Master’s in Machine Learning Online Program
The admission requirements could vary from institution to institution; however, certain basic requirements require all students to qualify to enroll in master’s programs. Since this field is quite in demand, students can go through the admission procedures for these Master in machine learning programs carefully. The specific admission requirements for master’s in machine learning online are:
- Form of admission and fee
- Cumulative grade point average of 2.0 or more (differs according to the institution)
- Graduate record examination or GRE scores (not required by all colleges)
- All previous official college transcripts
- Two or more letters of recommendation
- Statement of purpose
- TOEFL or IELTS scores (not required by applicants whose native is English)
For a better understanding of the requirements of master’s programs, read the Online Master’s Programs Guide.
No GRE Master’s in Machine Learning Online Programs
Most colleges require the Graduate Record Examination or GRE scores to enroll students in machine learning programs. However, some colleges exempt candidates from this requirement of submitting GRE scores while applying for the program. Waiving the GRE helps many candidates from diverse fields to apply for such programs. It will encourage applicants of diverse portfolios to apply for the program. Here are some examples of universities that enroll individuals in master’s in machine learning online that require no GRE:
How to Ensure a Master’s in Machine Learning Online Program Is Accredited
Accreditation is a process conducted by independent agencies to ensure that colleges maintain a high level of quality and continually improve their programs. Accreditation involves monitoring colleges’ provision of infrastructure and resources to students. Most colleges offering master’s in machine learning online programs are accredited by one of six regional accrediting agencies, which are:
- New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE)
- Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)
- Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
- Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
- Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU)
- Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC)
Students could also refer to the Database of Accredited Postsecondary Institutions and Programs[5], which will help them understand the list of institutions and programs recognized by the U.S. Department of Education. Another national organization they could refer to is the Council for Higher Education Accreditation[6], which focuses on quality assurance.
Read the Guide to College Accreditation to understand more about accreditation.
Where to Find Free Online Courses for Machine Learning Master’s Students
Free courses offer invaluable resources for Master’s in Machine Learning students, providing comprehensive insights into the field. These courses furnish essential knowledge, covering various topics and methodologies. They often include practical applications and real-world case studies, enhancing students’ understanding and proficiency. Accessible at no cost, these courses serve as indispensable tools for academic enrichment and professional development. Some free machine learning courses are:
| Course | Provided by | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Machine Learning Introduction for Everyone[7] | Coursera | This course aids students in grasping the concepts of data science and machine learning. It covers the historical background of machine learning, its various applications, model lifecycles, tools, and more. Students can hone practical skills in machine learning, distinguishing between unsupervised and supervised learning and assessing classification metrics such as accuracy, precision, recall, and confusion matrices. |
| IBM Machine Learning Professional Certificate[8] | Coursera | This course helps develop working skills in machine learning, unsupervised and supervised learning, reinforcement learning, and deep learning. Students gain an understanding of using neural networks and constructing classification and regression models. Students can also understand how to apply what they have learned through the course by taking up a final capstone project. |
| Machine Learning[9] | edX | This free course helps students learn about classification and regression, sequential models, matrix factorization, topic modeling, model selection, clustering methods, and more. It also includes understanding probabilistic versus non-probabilistic modeling and supervised versus unsupervised learning. |
Ways to Pay for a Master’s in Machine Learning Online Degree Program
The cost of an online machine learning master’s program could range from $20,000-$60,000 in the United States. The costs of these master’s programs could depend on factors like geographic location, thesis, and non-thesis-based programs, travel costs, and other resources students would need to pay. Because of these costs, students might be hesitant to pursue programs. Along with working full-time, there are other funding options students could consider, such as:
Scholarships provide financial assistance based on merit, helping students pursue their educational goals without the burden of repayment. These awards recognize academic achievements, talents, and accomplishments in various fields, offering opportunities for individuals to advance their education and prospects.
Federal direct loans
Federal direct loans are loans that the government gives at low interest. Students must repay these loans once they graduate from the institution or are employed.
Organizations like educational institutions, non-profit institutions, and state and federal governments can award students grants. Like scholarships, grants can be awarded based on students’ needs rather than their merit.
Banks, credit unions, or other financial institutions offer private student loans to cover educational expenses. Unlike federal loans, they may have higher interest rates and fewer repayment options. Still, they can fill gaps in funding for tuition, room and board, and other college-related costs.
FAFSA, or the Free Application for Federal Student Aid, is crucial in accessing eligibility for financial assistance for higher education. By completing the FAFSA form, students can apply for federal grants, loans, and work-study programs, making college more affordable and accessible.
To understand more about how to pay for college, students can refer to the guide on financial aid that will help them fund their education.
Scholarships for Master’s in Machine Learning Online Degree Students
Scholarships for online Master’s in Machine Learning students provide financial support, rewarding academic excellence and potential contributions to the field. These awards alleviate the financial burden, enabling dedicated learners to pursue advanced studies and excel in this dynamic and rapidly evolving technology field. Here are some online master’s in machine learning scholarships:
| Scholarship | Description | Award/Amount | Application Deadline |
|---|---|---|---|
ACM SIGHPC Computational and Data Science Fellowships[10] | The ACM SIGHPC Computational and Data Science Fellowships aim to enhance diversity in graduate studies within data science and computational science fields. Open worldwide, it prioritizes women and underrepresented racial/ethnic groups. Applicants demonstrate computational or data science expertise through advisor nominations, personal statements, and mentor endorsements. | $15,000 for up to 2 years | April 30, 2024. |
Great Minds in STEM Scholarship[11] | The Great Minds in STEM (GMiS) scholarship is provided to students enrolled in health-related or STEM undergraduate and graduate programs at accredited two-year or four-year colleges in the United States. | $500-$5,000 | Varies |
Career Opportunities and Salaries After Graduating with a Master’s in Machine Learning Online Degree
Those pursuing an online master’s in machine learning program can gain high-paying and advanced-level roles. With a background in machine learning, graduates can apply for occupations such as:
- Business Intelligence Developer
- Human-Centered Machine Learning Designer
- NLP Scientist
- Data Scientist
- Machine Learning Engineer
- Researcher
A few other occupations are explained below:
| Occupation | Skills Required | Median Annual Salary | Job Growth (up to 2031) | Job Description |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Machine Learning Engineer[12] | Technical skills, statistical skills, written communication, and analytical skills | $117,338 | No Data Available | A machine learning engineer uses theoretical models to build functioning and productive models or units that can handle terabytes of data in real-time. These professionals work with others in this area to transform research through artificial intelligence capabilities and deliver solutions to organizations facing issues. |
| Computer and Information Research Scientists[13] | Analytical, communication, detail-oriented, interpersonal, logical, math, and problem-solving skills | $136,620 | 23% (much faster than average) | Computer and information research scientists develop new software systems, computing languages, and other tools that improve how people work with computers. They design and conduct experiments to understand how to test software systems’ operations and frequently use machine learning and data science techniques. |
| Information Security Analysts[14] | Analytical, communication, creative, detail-oriented, and problem-solving skills | $112,000 | 32% (much faster than average) | Information security analysts check for networking and computer vulnerabilities. They also research recent information technology security trends and prepare reports to generate metrics, security breaches, and attempted attacks. Such professionals also develop security standards and best practices for their organizations. |
| Data Scientists[15] | Analytical skills, technical skills, and statistical skills | $103,500 | 35% (much faster than average) | Data scientists interpret and analyze digital data using statistics and assist businesses in decision-making. They use various tools to analyze and extract meaningful information from data. These professionals also use different algorithms and machine-learning languages to classify data. |
Certifications and Licensing for Master’s in Machine Learning Online Degree Graduates
Professional certifications validate students’ abilities to deliver quality services and uphold professional standards. These credentials enhance employment prospects and establish them as industry experts. With certified expertise, students gain credibility, recognition, and a competitive edge in their career pursuits, bolstering their confidence and marketability in the workforce. There are several professional certifications available for machine learning master’s degree online graduates, including:
Professional ML Engineer Certification-Google Cloud [16]
The Professional ML Engineer Certification by Google Cloud equips individuals to build, evaluate, and optimize ML models using Google Cloud technologies. With expertise in model architecture, data pipelines, and metrics interpretation, they ensure responsible AI and collaborate across roles for long-term success. Proficient in MLOps, they design scalable ML solutions, making ML accessible organization-wide.
AWS Certified Machine Learning – Specialty Certification[17]
The AWS Certified Machine Learning – Specialty Certification is essential for organizations seeking skilled professionals for cloud initiatives. Validating expertise in building, training, and deploying ML models on AWS, this certification is ideal for developers or data scientists with over one year of experience in ML/deep learning workloads on AWS.
Data Scientist-Advanced Analytics[18]
This certification assesses students’ knowledge using advanced analytics, analytics projects, operationalizing, and data visualization techniques. The certificate understands the data analytics lifecycle and helps them do initial data analysis. Students will also learn about advanced analytics and understand the technology and tools used in big data.
Students with a bachelor’s degree or higher can pursue machine learning jobs. However, related domains, like data science, artificial intelligence, and more, may require licensing. Licensing in the data science field could also depend on factors like employer requirements, education, and the level of expertise a student has. After completing their master’s degree, graduates will be eligible to attain provisional licensure.
Additional Resources for Master’s in Machine Learning Online Degree Graduates
Master’s in machine learning graduates can access a wealth of resources through organizational memberships, enhancing their post-graduate journey. These memberships offer networking opportunities, continued education, and exposure to industry trends. By staying connected to professional communities, graduates can access job opportunities, mentorship programs, and exclusive events, fostering ongoing growth and success in their careers. Here are a few resources machine learning graduates can explore:
| Title/Resource | Description |
|---|---|
| American Statistical Association | The American Statistical Association, founded in 1839, is the second-oldest professional association in the United States. The organization aims to develop and promote professional and public education in statistics and related fields, such as medicine, data science, society, and more. |
| Data Science Council of America | The Data Science Council of America is an organization that supports leaders and stakeholders in making cutting-edge decisions about big data technologies. It also provides advanced professional certificate programs, which help professionals advance their careers considerably and work as data leaders. |
| Institute for Operations Research and Management Science | The Institute for Operations Research and Management Science, or INFORMS, provides many opportunities to professionals in different fields, such as data science and management science. They also offer advertising, sponsorship, and exhibiting opportunities to raise the profile of individuals or organizations. |
| Association for the Advancement of Artificial Intelligence | The Association for the Advancement of Artificial Intelligence is a non-profit, scientifically oriented society dedicated to advancing the mechanisms underlying intelligent behavior. It promotes research and ethical usage of artificial intelligence. The organization also aims to increase the public understanding of artificial intelligence and improve AI practitioners’ training and teaching. |
| The National Artificial Intelligence Initiative | The National Artificial Intelligence Initiative consistently supports artificial intelligence in research and development. It supports artificial intelligence education and workforce programs, interdisciplinary research, coordination of federal interagency AI-related activities, and more. |
FAQs About Master’s in Machine Learning Online Programs
Why should you do a master’s in machine learning degree online?
An online master’s in machine learning degree offers flexibility for balancing work and personal commitments. It provides access to top-notch faculty and resources from anywhere. This format cultivates in-demand skills for thriving in technology, enhancing career prospects and opportunities for advancement in the rapidly evolving field.
How long does it take to complete an online master’s in machine learning program?
Is it worth getting a master’s in machine learning?
What can you do with an online master’s in machine learning?
Is there a demand for machine learning professionals?
Does an applicant need a prerequisite of advanced mathematics to apply to the online machine learning program?
Are online master’s in machine learning degrees respected by employers?
Citations:
Database of Accredited Postsecondary Institutions
Council for Higher Education Accreditation
Machine Learning Introduction for Everyone- Coursera
IBM Machine Learning Professional Certificate- Coursera
ACM SIGHPC Computational and Data Science Fellowships
Great Minds in STEM Scholarship
Payscale- Machine Learning Engineer
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics: Occupational Outlook for Information Security Analysts
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics: Occupational Outlook for Data Scientists
Professional ML Engineer Certification-Google Cloud