Rice University
Master of Computer Science - Artificial Intelligence and Robotics
Last reviewed June 2026 by the AI Graduate editorial team. Program data is compiled and verified from official university sources — see our methodology.
How this program compares
Budget-wise, $104.1K puts this master's program at the 96th percentile on cost — about 143% above the $42.9K average across 394 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 computer science, engineering, or a related field with a minimum GPA of 3.0 is required, along with programming experience and coursework in mathematics such as linear algebra and probability.
About This Program
Rice University's Master of Computer Science with an Artificial Intelligence and Robotics focus combines a highly selective private university with strengths in computing, robotics, and applied research. Rice's small scale means close faculty access and a tight-knit cohort.
Located in Houston — a hub for energy, healthcare, and aerospace — the program offers distinctive applied opportunities in industries actively adopting AI and autonomous systems.
Why students choose it: Selective private university, robotics strength, and Houston's energy/health/aerospace AI demand.
Career Outcomes
Graduates of Rice University's Master of Computer Science - Artificial Intelligence and Robotics most often target Robotics Engineer roles, where reported compensation runs around $120,000. Its focus on Computer Vision and Deep Learning 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. AI Research Scientist
- 2. Machine Learning Engineer
- 3. Robotics Software Engineer
- 4. Computer Vision Specialist
What You'll Learn
- Design and implement machine learning models for real-world AI applications.
- Develop computer vision systems for object detection and image processing.
- Build and control robotic systems using AI and reinforcement learning.
- Apply deep learning techniques to neural networks and large datasets.
- Analyze and optimize algorithms for artificial intelligence and robotics.
Curriculum Highlights
The specialization curriculum focuses on robotics, reinforcement learning, and modern computer vision, supported by core software engineering principles.
Top Employers
Top employers include Google, Amazon, NVIDIA, Boston Dynamics, and research labs like OpenAI.
Admissions
Admission to Rice University's Master of Computer Science - Artificial Intelligence and Robotics 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: 3
- Resume: Required
- Transcripts: Official transcripts required
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Rice University's Master of Computer Science - Artificial Intelligence and Robotics stand out?
A flexible terminal degree program offering both online and on-campus options to master the design and implementation of complex software systems.
Is the Master of Computer Science - Artificial Intelligence and Robotics at Rice University available online?
Yes — Rice University lists this program as on-campus, online, and it can be taken full-time, part-time. Confirm on-campus residency requirements, if any, on the official program page.
How much does the Master of Computer Science - Artificial Intelligence and Robotics cost?
We estimate total tuition at roughly $104.1K, above the $42.9K average for comparable AI master's programs in our database. Tuition changes yearly and excludes fees and living costs, so treat this as a planning figure and confirm with Rice University.
Does the Master of Computer Science - Artificial Intelligence and Robotics require the GRE?
No — Rice University does not require the GRE for this program, which is increasingly common among AI programs. A strong transcript, projects and recommendation letters carry more weight.
How long does the Master of Computer Science - Artificial Intelligence and Robotics take to complete?
Most students finish in about 1.5 years, though part-time schedules can extend that. Accelerated or part-time tracks may change the timeline.
What jobs can you get with the Master of Computer Science - Artificial Intelligence and Robotics?
Graduates commonly pursue roles such as Robotics Engineer, with reported pay around $120,000. Actual outcomes depend on your prior experience, portfolio and location — see our AI salary guide for current, source-cited ranges.
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