San José State University

How this program compares

At an estimated $16K in total tuition, the MS in Statistics - Machine Learning sits roughly 63% below the $42.9K average for AI master's programs in our database — placing it in the 14th percentile on cost among the 394 we track at this level. It runs on a part-time schedule (on-campus).

Admission Snapshot

Typical admitted student: A bachelor's degree in mathematics, statistics, computer science, or a related quantitative field is required, with a strong background in linear algebra, calculus, and programming. Most programs require a competitive GPA and may require the GRE, particularly for competitive institutions.

About This Program

This program is designed to prepare students to become practicing statisticians in business or government, focusing specifically on the theoretical and applied aspects of machine learning. Most students complete it in about 2 years.

Budget planners should note $16K estimated total tuition (14th percentile among AI master's programs, below the $42.9K average). That makes it one of the more affordable options for students weighing return on investment.

It is one of 65 AI-related programs we track in California, of which about 37% offer an online option. On price, it comes in cheaper than about 78% of the California programs in our data, where typical tuition runs near $63.3K.

Graduates frequently move into roles such as Data Scientist, with reported salaries around $130,000.

Apply statistical methods to real-world machine learning problems and model evaluation.

Career Outcomes

San José State University positions this master track for Data Scientist careers — typical offers cluster around $130,000. Its focus on Machine Learning 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 21% growth this decade — verify the current figure on the BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook before you rely on it.

• 1. Machine Learning Engineer
• 2. Data Scientist
• 3. Statistical Analyst
• 4. AI Research Scientist

What You'll Learn

• Apply statistical methods to real-world machine learning problems and model evaluation
• Design and implement supervised and unsupervised learning algorithms
• Understand the theoretical foundations of machine learning and statistical inference
• Develop practical skills in data preprocessing, feature engineering, and model optimization

Curriculum Highlights

The specialization features core statistics coursework, a graduate technical writing component, and specialized electives in cluster analysis, mathematical data visualization, and computational statistics.

Top Employers

Top employers include Google, Amazon, Microsoft, Meta, and major financial institutions like JPMorgan Chase and Goldman Sachs.

Admissions

Admission to San José State University's MS in Statistics - Machine Learning 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: 2–3
• Resume: Required
• Transcripts: Official transcripts required

Frequently Asked Questions