Loyola University Chicago

How this program compares

At an estimated $34K in total tuition, the MS in Computer Science (Artificial Intelligence specialization) sits roughly 21% below the $42.9K average for AI master's programs in our database — placing it in the 52nd percentile on cost among the 394 we track at this level. It runs on a full-time, part-time schedule (hybrid).

Admission Snapshot

Typical admitted student: Graduate program portals recommend a computing-related bachelor’s or prerequisite makeup (up to several software-development bridge courses). STEM-designation claims should be verified on the current DHS STEM-designated degree program list linked from the university.

About This Program

Loyola’s MSCS bundles AI as a named specialization within the broader computer science master’s rather than a separate diploma title, with additional tracks for cybersecurity-focused students and a dedicated thesis track. Coursework concentrates on Machine Learning and Artificial Intelligence. Most students complete it in about 2 years.

It is one of 35 AI-related programs we track in Illinois, of which about 34% offer an online option. On price, it comes in cheaper than about 66% of the Illinois programs in our data, where typical tuition runs near $71.7K.

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

Complete MSCS breadth appropriate to Loyola’s graduate CS outcomes.

Budget planners should note $34K estimated total tuition (52nd percentile among AI master's programs, below the $42.9K average). That puts it in the mid-range on price among comparable programs.

Career Outcomes

Loyola University Chicago positions this master track for Software Engineer careers — typical offers cluster around $115,000. Its focus on Machine Learning and Artificial Intelligence 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. Software Engineer (AI features)
• 2. Machine Learning Engineer
• 3. Data Engineer
• 4. Security-aware ML developer

What You'll Learn

• Complete MSCS breadth appropriate to Loyola’s graduate CS outcomes.
• Concentrate elective and required selections in artificial intelligence topics per specialization rules.
• Optionally pivot to thesis track if pursuing publication-oriented work.
• Study in a hybrid format common for Chicago professional students.

Curriculum Highlights

Loyola Chicago’s graduate catalog lists the MS in Computer Science as providing foundations for research or advanced careers, with specialization options including No Concentration (default), Artificial Intelligence, Cybersecurity, Computer Systems, and Thesis Track. Students should use the full degree requirements section of the catalog and the department handbook for credit distribution, core vs elective splits, and how AI specialization courses satisfy the 30-credit plan. Program marketing pages describe hybrid delivery with many online courses and some Lake Shore campus evening meetings—confirm each term’s modality in the class schedule.

Top Employers

Chicago-area finance, healthcare IT, and technology employers historically recruit Loyola computing graduates; consult Career Services outcome surveys for statistics.

Admissions

Admission to Loyola University Chicago's MS in Computer Science (Artificial Intelligence specialization) generally expects a bachelor's (flexible with prerequisites). Plan for the GRE, which this program lists as verify current waiver policy. Deadlines, testing policies and funding change year to year, so confirm the current requirements on the official program page before applying.

Application Materials

• Personal statement: Required
• Letters of recommendation: Confirm count
• Resume: Required
• Transcripts: Official transcripts required

Frequently Asked Questions