Howard University

How this program compares

Budget-wise, $63.7K puts this master's program at the 79th percentile on cost — about 48% above the $42.9K average across 394 comparable listings. It runs on a full-time schedule (on-campus).

Admission Snapshot

Typical admitted student: A bachelor's degree in computer science or related field with a minimum GPA of 3.0 is required, along with programming experience and coursework in algorithms, data structures, and linear algebra. GRE scores are often optional for accelerated MS programs.

About This Program

An accelerated graduate program (MCS) providing intensive preparation in the analysis and design of computing systems to solve complex issues in healthcare and transportation. Coursework concentrates on Machine Learning and AI Engineering / Applied AI. Most students complete it in about 1 year.

Graduates frequently move into roles such as Machine Learning Engineer, with reported salaries around $130,000.

Design and analyze efficient algorithms for large-scale computational problems.

At roughly $63.7K total, Howard University's Accelerated MS in Computer Science - Algorithms and Machine Learning sits above the $42.9K average among AI master's programs we track — the 79th percentile on price. Applicants should weigh that premium against the program's outcomes and brand.

It is one of 15 AI-related programs we track in District of Columbia, of which about 60% offer an online option. On price, it comes in cheaper than about 53% of the District of Columbia programs in our data, where typical tuition runs near $83.4K.

Career Outcomes

Graduates of Howard University's Accelerated MS in Computer Science - Algorithms and Machine Learning most often target Machine Learning Engineer roles, where reported compensation runs around $130,000. Its focus on Machine Learning and AI Engineering / Applied AI maps directly to how employers in engineering ai screen for specialized skills rather than generic degrees. Federal projections for this occupational area point to roughly 21% growth this decade — verify the current figure on the BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook before you rely on it.

• 1. Machine Learning Engineer
• 2. Algorithms Researcher
• 3. Data Scientist
• 4. AI Software Developer

What You'll Learn

• Design and analyze efficient algorithms for large-scale computational problems.
• Implement and evaluate machine learning models for predictive analytics.
• Optimize algorithms using advanced data structures and complexity analysis.
• Apply probabilistic methods to real-world machine learning challenges.

Curriculum Highlights

The curriculum offers a fast-track structure with core courses in software engineering, operating systems, and computability, focusing on algorithmic and machine learning specializations.

Top Employers

Top employers include Google, Amazon, Microsoft, Meta, and tech firms specializing in AI and algorithms.

Admissions

Admission to Howard University's Accelerated MS in Computer Science - Algorithms and Machine Learning generally expects a bachelor's degree. The GRE is optional 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: Required
• Letters of Recommendation: 2–3
• Resume: Required
• Transcripts: Official transcripts required

Frequently Asked Questions