New York University

How this program compares

New York University's PhD in Data Science / AI lists about $163.6K total tuition — about 88% above the $87.2K AI doctoral average (86th percentile in our data). It runs on a full-time schedule (on-campus).

Admission Snapshot

Typical admitted student: A master's degree in a related field such as computer science, mathematics, statistics, or engineering is typically required, along with a minimum GPA of 3.0 and strong research or quantitative background. GRE scores are often required or recommended, particularly for competitive programs.

About This Program

A pioneering doctoral program focused on developing researchers who can translate methodological innovations in data science and AI into practical applications across various domains. Coursework concentrates on AI Ethics/Policy and AI Engineering / Applied AI. Most students complete it in about 5 years.

It is one of 56 AI-related programs we track in New York, of which about 43% offer an online option. On price, it comes in higher than about 91% of the New York programs in our data, where typical tuition runs near $59.9K.

Graduates frequently move into roles such as AI Research Scientist, with reported salaries around $140,000.

Design and implement advanced AI models for complex data problems.

Budget planners should note $163.6K estimated total tuition (86th percentile among AI doctoral programs, above the $87.2K average). Applicants should weigh that premium against the program's outcomes and brand.

Career Outcomes

The PhD in Data Science / AI at New York University (New York, New York) is oriented toward AI Research Scientist hiring, with alumni reporting pay near $140,000. Its focus on AI Ethics/Policy and AI Engineering / Applied AI maps directly to how employers screen for specialized skills rather than generic degrees. Federal projections for this occupational area point to roughly 36% growth this decade — verify the current figure on the BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook before you rely on it.

• 1. Data Science Researcher
• 2. AI Research Scientist
• 3. Machine Learning Engineer
• 4. Chief Data Officer

What You'll Learn

• Design and implement advanced AI models for complex data problems
• Conduct original research in machine learning and data-driven discovery
• Analyze large-scale datasets using statistical and computational methods
• Develop scalable AI systems with high-performance computing techniques

Curriculum Highlights

The program requires 72 credits, featuring core courses in machine learning and big data, research rotations, and a final dissertation on an original research topic.

Top Employers

Top employers include Google, Microsoft, Amazon, Meta, and research institutions like IBM Research and national labs.

Admissions

Admission to New York University's PhD in Data Science / AI generally expects a master'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: 3
• Resume: Required
• Transcripts: Official transcripts required

Frequently Asked Questions