Southern Methodist University

How this program compares

At an estimated $40.5K in total tuition, the MS in Computer Science - AI Specialization sits roughly 6% below the $42.9K average for AI master's programs in our database — placing it in the 60th percentile on cost among the 394 we track at this level. 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 or related field with strong GPA in mathematics and programming courses is required; relevant work experience or prerequisites in linear algebra and algorithms may be preferred.

About This Program

A high-demand graduate program focused on advanced algorithms, software architecture, and intelligent systems to drive innovation in modern computing environments. Coursework concentrates on Machine Learning and MLOps/AI Engineering. Most students complete it in about 2 years.

Budget planners should note $40.5K estimated total tuition (60th percentile among AI master's programs, below the $42.9K average). That puts it in the mid-range on price among comparable programs.

It is one of 45 AI-related programs we track in Texas, of which about 51% offer an online option. On price, it comes in higher than about 68% of the Texas programs in our data, where typical tuition runs near $41.5K.

Graduates frequently move into roles such as Machine Learning Engineer, with reported salaries around $140,000.

Design and implement machine learning models for predictive analytics.

Career Outcomes

Graduates of Southern Methodist University's MS in Computer Science - AI Specialization most often target Machine Learning Engineer roles, where reported compensation runs around $140,000. Its focus on Machine Learning and MLOps/AI Engineering 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. Machine Learning Engineer
• 2. AI Research Scientist
• 3. Data Scientist
• 4. NLP Specialist

What You'll Learn

• Design and implement machine learning models for predictive analytics
• Apply deep learning techniques to image and language data
• Develop AI systems using reinforcement learning and optimization
• Evaluate ethical implications and societal impacts of AI technologies

Curriculum Highlights

The program covers core computer science principles with specialized topics in machine learning, natural language processing, cloud computing, and big data mining.

Top Employers

Top employers include Google, Microsoft, Amazon, and Meta.

Admissions

Admission to Southern Methodist University's MS in Computer Science - AI Specialization 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