Montana State University

How this program compares

At an estimated $4.0K in total tuition, the Graduate Certificate in Artificial Intelligence sits roughly 65% below the $11.4K average for AI certificate programs in our database — placing it in the 13th percentile on cost among the 236 we track at this level. It is one of the 57% of programs in our database offered fully or partly online.

Admission Snapshot

Typical admitted student: Applicants must hold a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution and demonstrate a strong academic foundation, typically with a GPA of 3.0 or higher. Some programs prefer prerequisites in computer science, mathematics, or related technical fields, though exceptions may be made for candidates with relevant professional experience.

About This Program

A 12-credit graduate program designed to provide a formal credential in AI and machine learning for students and professionals across various industrial and research fields. Coursework concentrates on Machine Learning and AI Engineering / Applied AI. Most students complete it in about 1 year.

Estimated total tuition is $4.0K, below the $11.4K average for AI certificate programs in our database and in the 13th percentile on cost at this level. That makes it one of the more affordable options for students weighing return on investment.

Develop mathematical optimization skills to advance as Machine Learning Engineer in Cross-Industry AI Graduates frequently move into roles such as Machine Learning Engineer, with reported salaries around $115,000.

Career Outcomes

Develop mathematical optimization skills to advance as Machine Learning Engineer in Cross-Industry AI

• 1. Machine Learning Engineer
• 2. AI Systems Developer
• 3. Data Scientist
• 4. AI Research Specialist

What You'll Learn

• Design and implement machine learning models to solve real-world computational problems
• Apply AI techniques across diverse domains including healthcare, business, and engineering
• Evaluate AI systems for bias, fairness, and ethical implications
• Understand the technical foundations and practical applications of artificial intelligence in professional contexts

Curriculum Highlights

The certificate includes core courses in advanced artificial intelligence and machine learning, with electives in database systems, mathematical optimization, and statistical data analysis.

Top Employers

Top employers in artificial intelligence include major technology companies like Google, Microsoft, Amazon, and IBM, as well as government agencies and research institutions investing heavily in AI development and deployment.

Admissions

Applicants must hold a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution and demonstrate a strong academic foundation, typically with a GPA of 3.0 or higher. Some programs prefer prerequisites in computer science, mathematics, or related technical fields, though exceptions may be made for candidates with relevant professional experience.

Application Materials

• Statement of Purpose: Required
• Letters of Recommendation: 2–3
• Resume: Required
• Official Transcripts: Required

Academic Requirements

• Degree Required: Bachelor's degree
• GRE/GMAT: Optional
• TOEFL/IELTS: Required for international students (TOEFL 80+ / IELTS 6.5+)