Kansas State University

How this program compares

Budget-wise, $5.7K puts this certificate program at the 24th percentile on cost — roughly 48% below the $11.0K average across 180 comparable listings. It is one of the 54% of programs in our database offered fully or partly online.

Admission Snapshot

Typical admitted student: A bachelor's degree in a related field such as computer science, engineering, or mathematics is required, along with a minimum GPA of 3.0 and relevant coursework in programming and calculus. Professional experience in AI or data science is often preferred.

About This Program

This graduate certificate provides advanced, hands-on training focused on the design and deployment of machine learning and AI frameworks within specialized autonomous system environments. Coursework concentrates on MLOps/AI Engineering and Machine Learning. Most students complete it in about 1 year.

It is one of 4 AI-related programs we track in Kansas, of which about 75% offer an online option. On price, it comes in cheaper than about 50% of the Kansas programs in our data, where typical tuition runs near $15.9K.

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

Implement supervised, unsupervised, and reinforcement learning models for autonomous systems.

Estimated total tuition is $5.7K, below the $11.0K average for AI certificate programs in our database and in the 24th percentile on cost at this level. That makes it one of the more affordable options for students weighing return on investment.

Career Outcomes

Graduates of Kansas State University's Graduate Certificate in Machine Learning and Autonomous Systems most often target Machine Learning Engineer roles, where reported compensation runs around $115,000. Its focus on MLOps/AI Engineering and Machine Learning maps directly to how employers in autonomous vehicles 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. Autonomous Systems Developer
• 3. AI Robotics Specialist
• 4. Data Scientist in Automation

What You'll Learn

• Implement supervised, unsupervised, and reinforcement learning models for autonomous systems.
• Design and program adaptive AI systems that operate with minimal human intervention.
• Apply deep learning techniques to robotics and real-time decision-making.
• Evaluate ethical considerations in deploying machine learning-driven autonomous technologies.

Curriculum Highlights

The structure focuses on the operationalization of autonomous systems, covering core topics in artificial intelligence frameworks, system design, and advanced machine learning implementation.

Top Employers

Top employers include tech firms like Google, Tesla, Boeing, and defense contractors such as Lockheed Martin and Northrop Grumman.

Admissions

Admission to Kansas State University's Graduate Certificate in Machine Learning and Autonomous Systems generally expects a bachelor's degree. 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: Required
• Letters of Recommendation: 2–3
• Resume: Required
• Transcripts: Official transcripts required

Frequently Asked Questions