University of Michigan‑Ann Arbor

How this program compares

At an estimated $47.2K in total tuition, the PhD in Computer Science (AI) sits roughly 43% below the $82.9K average for AI doctoral programs in our database — placing it in the 38th percentile on cost among the 42 we track at this level.

Admission Snapshot

Typical admitted student: A master's or bachelor's degree in computer science or related field with strong GPA (3.5+), research experience, and technical background in programming and mathematics are typically required; GRE is often optional.

About This Program

This research-oriented program prepares students for leadership careers in academia and industrial research. It focuses on developing foundational advances and real-world applications in intelligent systems. Coursework concentrates on Artificial Intelligence & Machine Learning and AI Engineering / Applied AI. Most students complete it in about 5 years.

Estimated total tuition is $47.2K, below the $82.9K average for AI doctoral programs in our database and in the 38th percentile on cost at this level. That puts it in the mid-range on price among comparable programs.

Pursue advanced AI Research Scientist in Engineering AI through machine learning Graduates frequently move into roles such as AI Research Scientist, with reported salaries around $145,000.

Career Outcomes

Pursue advanced AI Research Scientist in Engineering AI through machine learning

• 1. AI Research Scientist
• 2. Machine Learning Engineer
• 3. University Professor
• 4. AI Technical Lead

What You'll Learn

• Design and implement advanced AI models for complex problem-solving.
• Conduct original research in machine learning and neural networks.
• Analyze and optimize algorithms for computer vision and natural language processing.
• Apply reinforcement learning to real-world autonomous systems.

Curriculum Highlights

The curriculum is built around foundational coursework and a dissertation. Research areas include reinforcement learning, computer vision, human-AI collaboration, and scalable stochastic optimization.

Top Employers

Top employers include Google, OpenAI, Microsoft Research, and Meta AI.

Admissions

A master's or bachelor's degree in computer science or related field with strong GPA (3.5+), research experience, and technical background in programming and mathematics are typically required; GRE is often optional.

Application Materials

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

Academic Requirements

• Degree Required: Master's preferred (Bachelor's acceptable with strong research potential)
• GRE/GMAT: Optional
• TOEFL/IELTS: Required for international students (TOEFL 80+ / IELTS 6.5+)