University of California, Santa Cruz

How this program compares

At an estimated $46.7K in total tuition, the MS in Natural Language Processing sits about 10% above the $42.4K average for AI master's programs in our database — placing it in the 67th percentile on cost among the 531 we track at this level.

Admission Snapshot

Typical admitted student: A bachelor's degree in computer science, linguistics, or a related field with a minimum GPA of 3.0 is required, along with programming experience and coursework in machine learning or statistics.

About This Program

This professional program provides depth and breadth in core algorithms and methods used for NLP, preparing graduates for careers in industry or research. Coursework concentrates on Natural Language Processing (NLP) and Machine Learning. Most students complete it in about 1.5 years.

Estimated total tuition is $46.7K, above the $42.4K average for AI master's programs in our database and in the 67th percentile on cost at this level. Applicants should weigh that premium against the program's outcomes and brand.

Advance as NLP Engineer in Cross-Industry AI with machine learning expertise Graduates frequently move into roles such as NLP Engineer, with reported salaries around $140,000.

Career Outcomes

Advance as NLP Engineer in Cross-Industry AI with machine learning expertise

• 1. NLP Engineer
• 2. Machine Learning Engineer
• 3. AI Research Scientist
• 4. Computational Linguist

What You'll Learn

• Design and implement NLP models for text analysis and generation
• Apply deep learning architectures like transformers to language tasks
• Process and extract insights from unstructured text data
• Evaluate and optimize NLP systems for real-world applications

Curriculum Highlights

The four-to-five quarter sequence includes deep learning for NLP, advanced machine learning, an expert seminar, and an industry-partnered capstone project.

Top Employers

Top employers include tech companies like Google, Meta, Amazon, and OpenAI, as well as research labs and AI startups.

Admissions

A bachelor's degree in computer science, linguistics, or a related field with a minimum GPA of 3.0 is required, along with programming experience and coursework in machine learning or statistics.

Application Materials

• Statement of Purpose: Required
• Letters of Recommendation: 3
• Resume: Required
• Transcripts: Official transcripts required

Academic Requirements

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