Lead the Future of Artificial Intelligence
Artificial intelligence is transforming the way we live, work, and innovate. Companies across industries are searching for AI professionals who can build cutting-edge technologies while considering their ethical and social impact.
Santa Clara University’s Master of Science in Artificial Intelligence (MS AI) program prepares you to be a leader in this rapidly evolving field. With a strong foundation in both technical expertise and ethical responsibility, our program offers hands-on experience, industry connections, and a curriculum designed to set you apart in the job market.
| Degree Types | Master of Science |
|---|---|
| Available Modalities | In-Person |
| Cost Per Unit | $1,254/Unit (2025–2026 academic year) |
| Admission Requirements | View Requirements Here |
| Starting Quarters | Fall, Winter, or Spring |
| Best Contact Email | GradEngineerAdmissions@scu.edu |
| Application Logistics | Apply Now Fall Application Deadline: July 1, 2025 |
Choose Your Track
Our program offers two unique tracks that will help you dive deeper into the world of AI based on your area of interest.
Real-World Experience with Industry Partners
The AI Innovation Hub is one of the program’s most valuable features, connecting students with industry mentors and expert faculty to collaborate on real AI projects. Whether through hands-on coursework, research opportunities, industry collaboration, or the program's AI practicum, you’ll graduate with practical experience that makes an immediate impact.
A Commitment to Responsible AI
At SCU, we believe that technological advancement should go hand in hand with ethical responsibility. Our program integrates ethical considerations into every aspect of the curriculum, ensuring graduates are equipped to develop AI solutions that are fair, unbiased, and socially responsible.
"The MS AI program at Santa Clara University empowers students to tackle real-world AI challenges with confidence. Our curriculum blends cutting-edge technology with critical ethical considerations, preparing graduates to build AI solutions that make a positive impact. Located in the heart of Silicon Valley, the program offers unmatched opportunities for industry collaboration, hands-on projects, and professional networking."
Curriculum
MS in Artificial Intelligence: 46 Academic Units*
4 Units
2 Units
4 Units
4 Units
4 Units
3 Units
3 Units
3 Units
2 Units
4 Units
4 Units
4 Units
4 Units
4 Units
4 Units
4 Units
4 Units
2 Units
2 Units
4 Units
4 Units
4 Units
4 Units
2 Units
2 Units
2 Units
2 Units
2 Units
2 Units
4 Units
2 Units
6 Units
8 Units
6 Units
8 Units
*Total academic units and available electives subject to change based on annual curriculum review and updates.
Frequently Asked Questions
For any additional questions, please reach out to our admissions team at gradengineeradmissions@scu.edu.
Schedule an Advising Appointment | Attend an Information Session
Applicants must hold a bachelor’s degree in one of the following areas (or a closely related discipline) from an accredited institution:
- Computer Science
Electrical Engineering - Mathematics
- Physics
- General Engineering
Additionally, applicants should demonstrate foundational knowledge through college-level coursework or equivalent experience in:
- Programming (e.g., Python, Java, or C/C++)
- Data structures and algorithm design
- Mathematics, including calculus, linear algebra, probability, and statistics
If you have any questions about program eligibility or exceptions, please contact us at gradengineeradmissions@scu.edu.
The MS AI program is delivered in person and includes:
- Hands-on experience with cloud-based computing platforms
- A robust AI Practicum that offers project-based, real-world learning opportunities
Classes in the School of Engineering average 20 students, offering a close-knit, collaborative learning environment with ample opportunities to engage with faculty and classmates.
Yes! The program is STEM-designated.
- Students enrolled in the Master of Science (MS), 2-year, 45–48 unit program will be issued an I-20 upon admission.
- The program qualifies eligible international students for OPT (Optional Practical Training) extension.
- Students may apply for positions as Teaching Assistants (TAs) or graders.
- Research assistantships are also available for students interested in working with faculty on funded AI-related projects.
- All students are required to take a course on AI and Ethics, which introduces key moral and ethical frameworks.
- Ethical modules are also integrated into several technical courses such as Natural Language Processing, Deep Learning, and Web Search, covering topics like:
- Algorithmic fairness
- Transparency and privacy
- Safety and societal impact
- Practicum projects often include work with nonprofit or mission-driven organizations, emphasizing responsible AI in real-world applications.
Yes. The MS AI program:
- Offers courses across Computer Science & Engineering, Electrical & Computer Engineering, and Applied Mathematics
- Encourages collaboration with departments such as Bioengineering, Mechanical Engineering, Civil Engineering, and Philosophy
- Partners with the Miller Center for Global Impact & the Markkula Center for Applied Ethics to support projects using ethical AI on a global scale
Absolutely. Students choose from two concentration tracks:
- CSEN (Computer Science & Engineering): Software, algorithms, and applied machine learning
- ECEN (Electrical & Computer Engineering): Hardware systems, embedded AI, robotics, and edge computing
Within each track, students have the flexibility to select electives aligned with their career goals and personal interests.
Check out our curriculum section to learn more about course options.
SCU offers academic advising, career services, mentorship programs, and professional development resources to support graduate students throughout their educational journey.
School of Engineering Events
We’d love to hear from you!
Reach out to our Graduate Engineering team via email to learn more about the program you are interested in:
GradEngineerAdmissions@scu.edu
Your Future Starts Here.
This will only take a moment.