California Polytechnic State University

How this program compares

Budget-wise, $66.6K puts this bachelor's program at the 57th percentile on cost — roughly 26% below the $89.8K average across 186 comparable listings. It runs on a full-time schedule (on-campus).

Admission Snapshot

Typical admitted student: High school diploma or equivalent with a minimum GPA of 3.0 preferred, strong background in mathematics (calculus, linear algebra) and programming. SAT/ACT scores are optional but recommended for competitive admission.

About This Program

This project-oriented bachelor's program provides a rigorous foundation in computer science with a specialized emphasis on intelligent systems and data analysis. Coursework concentrates on Machine Learning and Natural Language Processing (NLP). Most students complete it in about 4 years.

Budget planners should note $66.6K estimated total tuition (57th percentile among AI bachelor's programs, below the $89.8K average). That puts it in the mid-range on price among comparable programs.

It is one of 65 AI-related programs we track in California, of which about 37% offer an online option. On price, it comes in higher than about 69% of the California programs in our data, where typical tuition runs near $63.3K.

Graduates frequently move into roles such as Machine Learning Engineer, with reported salaries around $115,000.

Design and implement machine learning algorithms for data analysis and prediction.

Career Outcomes

The BS Computer Science with Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning Concentration at California Polytechnic State University (San Luis Obispo, California) is oriented toward Machine Learning Engineer hiring, with alumni reporting pay near $115,000. Its focus on Machine Learning and Natural Language Processing (NLP) maps directly to how employers screen for specialized skills rather than generic degrees. Federal projections for this occupational area point to roughly 23% growth this decade — verify the current figure on the BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook before you rely on it.

• 1. Machine Learning Engineer
• 2. AI Research Scientist
• 3. Data Scientist
• 4. Software Engineer (AI/ML)

What You'll Learn

• Design and implement machine learning algorithms for data analysis and prediction.
• Build and train neural networks for tasks like image recognition and pattern detection.
• Apply AI techniques to solve real-world problems in automation and decision-making.
• Evaluate and optimize AI models for accuracy, efficiency, and ethical considerations.

Curriculum Highlights

The curriculum features core courses in software engineering and algorithms, complemented by specialized concentration modules in artificial intelligence and a culminating senior project.

Top Employers

Top employers include Google, Microsoft, Amazon, and NVIDIA.

Admissions

Admission to California Polytechnic State University's BS Computer Science with Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning Concentration generally expects a high school diploma. The GRE is not required here — a growing norm among AI programs — so applicants can often lead with coursework, projects and recommendations instead. Deadlines, testing policies and funding change year to year, so confirm the current requirements on the official program page before applying.

Application Materials

• Statement of Purpose: Optional
• Letters of Recommendation: Optional
• Resume: Optional
• Transcripts: Official transcripts required

Frequently Asked Questions