DoctoralOn-CampusFull-Time

University of Washington

PhD in Computer Science (AI, ML track)

Seattle, Washington5 years$48K total tuition
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Last reviewed June 2026 by the AI Graduate editorial team. Program data is compiled and verified from official university sources β€” see our methodology.

How this program compares

At an estimated $47.5K in total tuition, the PhD in Computer Science (AI, ML track) sits roughly 43% below the $82.9K average for AI doctoral programs in our database β€” placing it in the 43rd percentile on cost among the 42 we track at this level.

Est. Salary$130,000 AI Research Scientist
Job Growth+36%
Top RoleAI Research Scientist
FormatOn-Campus

Admission Snapshot

Degree Required
Bachelor's degree (Master's preferred)
Duration
5 years
Est. Tuition
$48K total
Format
On-Campus
Schedule
Full-Time
GRE / GMAT
Required
Concentrations
Artificial Intelligence & Machine Learning, AI Engineering / Applied AI

Typical admitted student: Applicants must hold a Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Mathematics, Engineering, or a related field with strong quantitative skills. A Master's degree is preferred but not required. GRE scores, a statement of purpose, letters of recommendation from academic or research advisors, and demonstrated research interest in AI/ML are typically required.

About This Program

This research-intensive doctoral program prepares students for leadership roles in academia or industry through advanced study in computer science and artificial intelligence. Coursework concentrates on Artificial Intelligence & Machine Learning and AI Engineering / Applied AI. Most students complete it in about 5 years.

Estimated total tuition is $47.5K, below the $82.9K average for AI doctoral programs in our database and in the 43rd percentile on cost at this level. That puts it in the mid-range on price among comparable programs.

Drive advanced AI Research Scientist in Cross-Industry AI through machine learning Graduates frequently move into roles such as AI Research Scientist, with reported salaries around $125,000.

Career Outcomes

Drive advanced AI Research Scientist in Cross-Industry AI through machine learning

  • 1. Machine Learning Researcher
  • 2. AI Systems Engineer
  • 3. Data Scientist
  • 4. Research Scientist at Technology Companies

What You'll Learn

  • Design and implement advanced machine learning algorithms for complex, real-world problems
  • Conduct independent research in emerging AI/ML areas and contribute to peer-reviewed publications
  • Develop proficiency in deep learning, reinforcement learning, and statistical machine learning methodologies
  • Apply AI/ML techniques to specialized domains such as computer vision, natural language processing, or autonomous systems

Curriculum Highlights

The program includes advanced graduate coursework, research rotations, and the completion of a doctoral dissertation in a specialized AI field.

Top Employers

Top employers for PhD graduates in AI/ML include Google, Microsoft, Meta, OpenAI, academic research institutions, and government laboratories such as NIST and national labs.

Admissions

Applicants must hold a Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Mathematics, Engineering, or a related field with strong quantitative skills. A Master's degree is preferred but not required. GRE scores, a statement of purpose, letters of recommendation from academic or research advisors, and demonstrated research interest in AI/ML are typically required.

Application Materials

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

Academic Requirements

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

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