Machine learning is a rapidly growing, fascinating field dealing with algorithm development that can be used to make predictions from data. The best online PhD in Machine Learning prepares students for a career in this promising field.
The best online doctorates in machine learning offer students a comprehensive education in all aspects of the field. Students are also provided with the opportunity to choose a specialization such as deep learning, natural language processing, or computer vision. Find out in this article what machine learning PhD online degree program best fits you and the machine learning jobs for graduates.
Can You Get a PhD in Machine Learning Online?
Yes, you can get a PhD in Machine Learning online. The online learning system has seen rapid growth in many academic fields and has given students the opportunity to virtually access the academic curriculum remotely.
Many online PhD programs in the United States are accredited and designed with working professionals in mind. Online learning is a great way to earn a doctorate without sacrificing your day job, and in most cases, online students can complete their entire academic journey without stepping foot on campus.
Is an Online PhD Respected?
Yes, an online PhD is respected when it is obtained from an accredited institution in the US. A PhD from an unaccredited school is regarded as just an expensive piece of paper by many other academic institutions.
In regard to employment, many companies and organizations respect an online PhD, holding it to the same standard as an in-person PhD. However, some employers prefer in-person degrees and will disregard online degrees. Ensure your potential future employer accepts online degrees as credible education.
What Is the Best Online PhD Program in Machine Learning?
The best online PhD program in machine learning is at Clarkson University in Potsdam, New York. It is regionally accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education and has an excellent reputation within the academic community, a student-to-faculty ratio of 12 to one, and one in five of its 44,000 alumni is a CEO or executive.
Why Clarkson University Has the Best Online PhD Program in Machine Learning
Clarkson University has the best machine learning PhD program not only because it is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE) but also because of its US News & World Report ranking. MSCHE is a regionally recognized accreditation association that uses a rigorous and comprehensive system for the purpose of accreditation.
Referring to US News & World Report, Clarkson University is ranked 127 for best national universities out of 4000 degree-granting academic institutions in the United States and 49 for best value schools.
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Online PhD in Machine Learning Admission Requirements
The admission requirements for an online PhD in Machine Learning typically include a master’s degree or Bachelor’s in Machine Learning or a related subject like the field of engineering. Moreover, prepare to submit official transcripts from previously attended postsecondary institutions and GRE test scores.
Additionally, you may be asked to submit three letters of recommendation, a statement of purpose, a CV or resume, and prove your knowledge of calculus and your fluency in computer programming languages like Python and Java. Below is a list of the typical admission requirements needed by distinct schools that offer a machine learning PhD program.
Online PhD in Machine Learning Admission Requirements
- Master’s or bachelor’s degree in a relevant field
- Official transcripts and GRE test scores
- Letters of recommendation
- Statement of purpose
- CV or resume
- Knowledge of programming and calculus
Best Online PhDs in Machine Learning: Top Degree Program Details
| School | Program | Estimated Length |
|---|---|---|
| Aspen University | DSc in Computer Science | 5 years and 7 months |
| Capitol Technology University | PhD in Artificial Intelligence | 2 to 3 years |
| City University of Seattle | PhD in Information Technology | Self-paced |
| Clarkson University | PhD in Computer Science | 3 years |
| Northcentral University | PhD in Computer Science | 3 years and 4 months |
| Nova Southeastern University | PhD in Computer Science | Not specified |
| University of North Dakota | PhD in Computer Science | 4 – 5 years |
| University of Rhode Island | PhD in Computer Science | 4 years |
| University of the Cumberlands | PhD in Information Technology | Not specified |
| Wright State University | PhD in Computer Science and Engineering | 10-year limit |
Best Online PhDs in Machine Learning: Top University Programs to Get a PhD in Machine Learning Online
The top university programs to get a PhD in Machine Learning are at Clarkson University, Aspen University, Capitol Technology University, The University of Rhode Island, and The University of the Cumberlands, among other distinct schools.
This section discusses the properties, requirements, and descriptions of the best universities offering online PhD in Machine Learning programs. We have created this list below to narrow down your school search for these graduate-level in-depth study programs.
Online Machine Learning PhD Graduation Rates: How Hard Is It to Complete an Online PhD Program in Machine Learning?
It is very hard to complete an online PhD in Machine Learning. According to a paper published in the International Journal of Doctoral Studies, there is a PhD attrition rate of 50 percent in the US within the past 50 years. Therefore, the graduation rate for doctorate students is approximately 50 percent.
How Long Does It Take to Get a PhD in Machine Learning Online?
It takes about four years to get a PhD in Machine Learning online, which is fast when compared to a traditional in-person PhD program which may take over seven years to complete. Online PhD programs are accelerated by default, so the curriculum focuses on the major needs of a PhD graduate in the areas of research, thesis, and dissertation.
Students may be able to reduce the time spent pursuing a PhD in Machine Learning by first acquiring a master’s degree in the field. If you choose to pursue a PhD on a part-time schedule as opposed to full-time study, it will significantly increase the time it takes to acquire the degree.
How Hard Is an Online Doctorate in Machine Learning?
Getting an online doctorate in machine learning is very hard, as are most graduate programs. Besides the rigorous research, strict requirements, deadlines, qualification examinations, and dissertations, other challenges may exist, such as limited student connection with the faculty members, isolation, financial issues, and lack of an adequate work-life balance.
Getting a doctorate in any field is not easy. In fact, there is research to suggest that online doctorate students face challenges regarding culture and academia. As a result of these challenges, many students drop out from their PhD programs.
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What Courses Are in an Online Machine Learning PhD Program?
The courses in an online machine learning PhD program include an introduction to machine learning and deep learning, artificial intelligence, statistical theories, data mining, system simulation, computer programming, and software development.
Main Areas of Study in a Machine Learning PhD Program
- Machine learning
- Deep learning
- Artificial intelligence
- Databases and data mining
- Statistical theory
- Software engineering
- Systems simulation
How Much Does Getting an Online Machine Learning PhD Cost?
On average, it costs $19,314 per year to get a PhD in Machine Learning, according to the National Center of Education Statistics (NCES). However, this figure is not fixed, as the total tuition for a PhD program varies from school to school.
Private institutions generally cost more than public institutions, but there are funding opportunities for PhD students. Some PhD programs may guarantee financial aid for all their students regardless of merit.
How to Pay for an Online PhD Program in Machine Learning
You can pay for an online PhD in Machine Learning by taking advantage of student loans, scholarships, grants, teaching and research assistantships, graduate assistantships, and fellowship assistantships. As a result, most PhD students spend less than the tuition fee displayed on a school’s website.
How to Get an Online PhD for Free
You cannot get an online PhD in Machine Learning for free. However, there are ways to reduce the cost, or get partial tuition discounts and stipends through graduate assistantships, fellowships, scholarships, or grants.
What Is the Most Affordable Online PhD in Machine Learning Degree Program?
The most affordable online PhD in Machine Learning based on cost per credit is at Aspen University in Phoenix, Arizona. It charges $375 per month, which, when multiplied by the 67 months it takes to complete the program, results in a total of $25,125 for the entire program. This is more affordable compared to a school like Clarkson University, which charges $1,533 per credit hour.
Most Affordable Online PhD Programs in Machine Learning: In Brief
| School | Program | Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| Aspen University | DSc in Computer Science | $375/month |
| University of the Cumberlands | PhD in Information Technology | $500/credit |
| University of North Dakota | PhD in Computer Science | $545.16/credit |
| Wright University | PhD in Computer Science and Engineering | $660/credit |
| City University of Seattle | PhD in Information Technology | $765/credit |
Why You Should Get an Online PhD in Machine Learning
You should get an online PhD in Machine Learning because having a PhD offers you a stronger advantage in terms of employability, salary, and in your career in general that would otherwise be unavailable with just a bachelor’s and master’s degree.
Top Reasons for Getting a PhD in Machine Learning
- Research opportunities. PhD students get the opportunity to be involved in rigorous and innovative research that may positively impact humanity, add to the world’s knowledge, and improve the lives of others.
- Expertise development. A PhD is the highest level of academic degree, and as a result, PhD holders have expert-level knowledge in whichever field they acquire a PhD in. However, it is advised to only get a PhD if you are very interested in the field and willing to explore your interest and expand your understanding through cutting-edge research.
- Access to better jobs. There are lots of bachelor’s and master’s degree graduates in the job market, and earning a PhD will help you stick out from the crowd. A PhD reveals career opportunities that may not be available to bachelor’s and master’s degree grads.
- Networking opportunities. During a PhD program, students are in contact with top lecturers and academic experts by attending guest lectures, conferences, seminars, and workshops. Students can network with colleagues and classmates, which helps put them in a good position after their academic journey.
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What Is the Difference Between an On-Campus Machine Learning PhD and an Online PhD in Machine Learning?
The difference between an on-campus machine learning PhD and an online PhD in Machine Learning is primarily the mode of learning. Online PhDs are as rigorous and effective as their on-campus counterparts.
However, there may be some slight differences between the two in terms of cost, schedule, quality, and funding. Some of the differences that may exist are discussed below.
Online PhD vs On-Campus PhD: Key Differences
- Affordability. An online PhD is more affordable compared to the traditional on-campus alternative. An on-campus PhD can cost as much as $30,000 per year, while an online PhD may be as low as $20,000 per year.
- Flexibility. Online PhD students have the liberty to conduct in-depth study and research at their own time as opposed to the schedule of an in-person PhD program. Moreover, most online PhD programs don’t have an enrollment date, and some online PhD work is asynchronous, meaning students can take classes from anywhere at their convenience.
- Quality. Traditionally acquired PhDs are thought to be superior to their online counterparts by some employers and academics, probably due to sentiment. However, the quality of an online PhD is dependent on the research subject, the school’s reputation, and accreditation.
- Availability of funding. Funding available for online PhD programs may be limited due to some geographical constraints. For example, online PhD students cannot take up teaching assistantship positions unless they are willing to be physically present.
How to Get a PhD in Machine Learning Online: A Step-by-Step Guide
To get a PhD in Machine Learning, you need to first apply online to a PhD program. If accepted, you must enroll in the required classes and complete the academic coursework, research, and a series of academic milestones, which include attaining candidacy, passing the qualification examinations, proposing, writing, and defending your dissertation.
Online PhD in Machine Learning Salary and Job Outlook
The job outlook for machine learning jobs is 22 percent between 2020 and 2030, with the number of new jobs expected in this time frame being 7,200, according to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics. The average salary for computer and information research scientists, which is a category that machine learning professionals belong to, is $131,490 per year.
What Can You Do With an Online Doctorate in Machine Learning?
With an online doctorate in machine learning, you can qualify for specialization roles and lead machine learning positions, including senior machine learning engineer and computer research scientist.
Depending on your preferences, you may also opt for a research and academic career path to become a university professor. The list below is a list of the best jobs for PhD in Machine Learning graduates.
Best Jobs with a PhD in Machine Learning
- Senior Machine Learning Engineer
- Computer and Information Research Scientist
- Data Scientist
- Software Engineer
- Postsecondary Teacher
Potential Careers With a Machine Learning Degree
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What Is the Average Salary for an Online PhD Holder in Machine Learning?
The average salary for a PhD in Machine Learning holder is $108,000 per year, according to PayScale’s salary for skills in machine learning. The average salary a PhD holder receives depends on the location and position you apply for.
Highest-Paying Machine Learning Jobs for PhD Grads
| Online Machine Learning PhD Jobs | Average Salary |
|---|---|
| Senior Machine Learning Engineer | $153,255 |
| Computer and Information Research Scientist | $131,490 |
| Senior Data Scientist | $127,455 |
| Senior Software Engineer | $121,115 |
| Postsecondary Teacher | $79,640 |
Best Machine Learning Jobs for Online PhD Holders
The best machine learning jobs for online PhD holders are typically high-paying jobs that require advanced-level skills that coincide with the nature of the position they undertake. Below are some typical job titles that online machine learning PhD degree holders assume.
Is It Worth It to Do a PhD in Machine Learning Online?
Yes, it is worth it to do a PhD in Machine Learning online. Getting a PhD is not for everyone, as the process will require tremendous effort and discipline, but it can be rewarding. A PhD in Machine Learning online allows you to learn from some of the best minds in the field.
You can also specialize in an area of your choice, such as big data, natural language processing, or deep learning. Specializing in one area for your PhD in Machine Learning allows you to deep-dive into that subject and build doctorate-level expertise.
An online PhD in Machine Learning provides students with the same high-quality education as a traditional PhD but with more flexibility and affordability. You’ll have access to top-notch instructors, state-of-the-art technology, and a thriving online community of experts.
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Online PhD in Machine Learning FAQ
Yes, you should get an online PhD in Machine Learning if it is critical for your career prospects. An online PhD in Machine Learning allows you to learn at your own pace and keep your day job while you pursue your degree. In the end, it sets you up for the highest-earning jobs in the machine learning industry, with better pay and a larger professional network.
The type of research you will carry out as a machine learning student includes research in deep learning, neural networks, machine learning algorithms, supervised and unsupervised machine learning, predictive learning, and computer vision. Students will make use of quantitative and experimental methods of research as well as the use of optimal feature selection.
You can choose a concentration for an online machine learning PhD by factoring in your interests, strengths, and career goals. You may also consider recent trends, the average salary of machine learning professionals, or the career options the machine learning industry has to offer when choosing a machine learning concentration.
Examples of online machine learning PhD dissertations include experimental quantum speed-up in reinforcement learning agents, improving automated medical diagnosis systems with machine learning technologies, regulating deep learning and robotics, and the use of machines and robotics in medical procedures.
About us: Career Karma is a platform designed to help job seekers find, research, and connect with job training programs to advance their careers. Learn about the CK publication.
