The growing application of advanced technology in our daily lives has led to a high demand for professionals with qualifications in the field of artificial intelligence. The best PhDs in Artificial Intelligence offer tech professionals an opportunity to help meet this increased demand and land the highest-paying artificial intelligence jobs.
A careful look at some important factors for a PhD in Artificial Intelligence, such as program cost, length, and location, will help in determining the right artificial intelligence PhD program for you. This article also discusses some of the best artificial intelligence jobs and what you can expect to earn as a PhD in Artificial Intelligence salary.
What Is a PhD in Artificial Intelligence?
A PhD in Artificial Intelligence is a doctorate program with an artificial intelligence research focus. Students are required to complete original research in various areas of applied artificial intelligence. These areas may include machine learning, artificial neural networks, speech recognition, and processing. PhD students will be assigned an academic advisor who will guide the student throughout their research.
How to Get Into an Artificial Intelligence PhD Program: Admission Requirements
The requirements to get into an artificial intelligence PhD program are a minimum of a Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Science or a related field, such as computer engineering, data science, or statistics. Students will also need a strong background in programming and system analysis, and fluency in several computer languages. There may also be course prerequisites in areas such as English, writing, deep learning, and neural cognitive modeling.
Further requirements may include transcripts of your undergraduate or graduate coursework and standardized tests scores such as the GRE. You may also be required to submit a statement of purpose that includes a description, proposal, or preliminary idea of your research areas of interest for your doctoral thesis.
PhD in Artificial Intelligence Admission Requirements
- Bachelor’s or master’s degree
- Transcripts
- Letters of recommendation
- Statement of purpose
- Standardized test scores
- Strong background in programming languages such as Python and Java
- Knowledge of artificial intelligence subjects such as deep learning, neural and cognitive modeling, or computing
Artificial Intelligence PhD Acceptance Rates: How Hard Is It to Get Into a PhD Program in Artificial Intelligence?
It can be hard to get into a PhD program in Artificial Intelligence. Some programs are highly selective, and acceptance is not always based on merit alone. However, acceptance into some PhD programs is relatively easy if you meet all of the admissions requirements.
How to Get Into the Best Universities
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Best PhDs in Artificial Intelligence: In Brief
| School | Program | Online Option |
|---|---|---|
| Arizona State University | PhD in Computer Science | No |
| Capitol Technology University | PhD in Artificial Intelligence | Yes |
| Cornell University | PhD in Computer Science | No |
| Drexel University | PhD in Computer Science | No |
| Oregon State University | PhD in Artificial Intelligence and Robotics | No |
| Pace University | PhD in Computer Science | No |
| Syracuse University | PhD in Computer and Information Science and Engineering | No |
| University of Colorado | PhD in Computer Science | No |
| University of Michigan | PhD in Computer Science and Engineering | No |
| University of Texas at San Antonio | PhD in Computer Science | No |
Best Universities for Artificial Intelligence PhDs: Where to Get a PhD in Artificial Intelligence
The best universities for artificial intelligence PhDs are Arizona State University, Syracuse University, and Drexel University. They have some of the best artificial intelligence laboratories, high acceptance rates, and the right networks of people. Below is a detailed list of the best schools to get a PhD in Artificial Intelligence.
Can You Get a PhD in Artificial Intelligence Online?
Yes, you can get a PhD in Artificial Intelligence online. Some universities in the United States offer online artificial intelligence doctorate programs, like Capitol Technology University. The amount of time required to complete the online artificial intelligence program is about the same as the in-person program, depending on the institution.
Best Online PhD Programs in Artificial Intelligence
| School | Program | Length |
|---|---|---|
| Capitol Technology University | Online PhD in Artificial Intelligence | 3 years |
| Colorado Technical University | PhD in Big Data Analytics | 3 years |
| Grand Canyon University | Online PhD in Artificial Intelligence | 3 years |
| Harrisburg University | PhD in Data Science | N/A |
| Northcentral University | PhD in Data Science | 40 months |
How Long Does It Take to Get a PhD in Artificial Intelligence?
It takes about three to five years to get a PhD in Artificial Intelligence. That duration may be longer for people with particularly lengthy or complex research work or for those working part-time toward their PhD.
The reason for the longer duration could be a result of the institution’s requirements, the amount of research required before a thesis can be submitted, a student’s cooperation with their academic supervisor, or the program’s format, that is, whether it is full-time or part-time.
Is a PhD in Artificial Intelligence Hard?
No, a PhD in Artificial Intelligence is not that hard. Getting a PhD in computer-related programs can indeed be difficult, but when compared with other fields of theoretical study in computer science, a PhD in Artificial Intelligence is relatively easier.
PhD programs are very research-focused. What makes the PhD in Artificial Intelligence easier is that more emphasis is placed on empirical evaluation than on performance. That is, you have to prove that your method makes sense intuitively, not that it actually works. For your AI PhD, you can even show how an already established method works in a new area.
How Much Does It Cost to Get a PhD in Artificial Intelligence?
It costs about $19,792 per year to get a PhD in Artificial Intelligence, according to the National Center for Education Statistics. This average varies depending on the type of university involved. For public institutions, annual tuition averages about $12,410, while private universities charge about $26,597 per year. These rates are for in-state students only.
It is important to note that additional fees and costs also apply, such as application fees and department fees. However, most PhD programs have guaranteed financial support, although it doesn’t usually cover the entire cost of the degree.
How to Pay for a PhD in Artificial Intelligence: PhD Funding Options
Some of the PhD funding options available for students include research assistantships, where PhD students assist a member of faculty with their research. Students can also participate in a teaching assistantships, where they assist a professor in various academic-related areas. Instead of being paid for their work, students receive partial or full tuition or a stipend.
Another option for PhD funding is tuition waivers, which are awarded based on things like merit, race, or occupation. There also may be financial scholarships or loans available to help with costs.
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What Is the Difference between an Artificial Intelligence Master’s Degree and PhD?
One difference between an artificial intelligence master’s degree and a PhD is that a master’s degree program consists mostly of classwork and projects, with little intensive research work, while a PhD in Artificial Intelligence predominantly involves intensive research work aimed at finding answers and solutions to existing questions and problems.
It is harder to get a PhD than a master’s degree. In the field of artificial intelligence, master’s students will focus on multiple areas of learning, such as building multi-agent systems, economic systems, or artificial agents. PhD students will be more focused on solving a specific issue, requiring intense focus and strong critical-thinking and problem-solving skills, and making advancements in the field.
Master’s vs PhD in Artificial Intelligence Job Outlook
There is a difference in the job outlook for AI master’s degree holders and AI PhD holders. Those with a PhD in Artificial Intelligence have more job opportunities overall and can expect a higher salary than those with a Master’s Degree in Artificial Intelligence.
Some examples of jobs in artificial intelligence that require a PhD are big data engineer and architect, research scientist, natural language processing engineer, software architect, senior software engineer, and machine learning engineer. Those requiring a master’s degree include computer and information research scientist, data analyst, and artificial intelligence developer.
Difference in Salary for Artificial Intelligence Master’s vs PhD
A PhD in Artificial Intelligence is a terminal degree that brings with it higher salaries than a Master’s in Artificial Intelligence does. Someone with a PhD in the field of artificial intelligence earns about $115,000 per year, according to PayScale.
On the other hand, an artificial intelligence master’s degree holder earns $102,000 per year on average. This means that those with an AI PhD can expect to make about $13,000 more every year than those with an AI master’s degree.
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Why You Should Get a PhD in Artificial Intelligence
You should get a PhD in Artificial Intelligence because it opens the door to more employment opportunities and higher salaries. If you’re already employed, you may be able to keep your job for part or even all of your PhD program. Artificial intelligence is a growing and in-demand field, so obtaining the highest level of education will set you up for continuous opportunities.
Reasons for Getting a PhD in Artificial Intelligence
- More employment opportunities. With a PhD in Artificial Intelligence, landing a good job shouldn’t be a problem. The degree opens the door to more and better career opportunities.
- High-paying jobs. A Doctorate in Artificial Intelligence brings with it not only more career opportunities but also better salaries. PayScale shows that the average salary of a PhD degree holder in the field of artificial intelligence is about $115,000. However, the earning potential with this degree is considerably higher, as much as $200,000 per year for positions like principal scientist.
- Expertise in a versatile field. A doctorate degree in artificial intelligence will provide you with a deep understanding of AI theories and strong technical skills, which you can use to help solve future problems in a wide variety of fields.
- Plentiful research opportunities. With a PhD in Artificial Intelligence, you have the opportunity to engage in numerous research projects, which will increase your overall knowledge in the AI field and imbue you with the ability to find solutions to a wide variety of problems.
Getting a PhD in Artificial Intelligence: Artificial Intelligence PhD Coursework
Getting a PhD in Artificial Intelligence requires significant coursework in addition to the research element of the degree. Some common course topics include advanced data structures and algorithms, natural language learning, intermediate statistics, machine learning in practice, and regression analysis.
Foundations of Machine Learning
This course aims to teach students the founding principles of machine learning, its theory, and the techniques involved. The course includes different categories of machine learning including supervised learning, unsupervised learning, and reinforcement learning.
Advanced Data Structures and Algorithms
Through this course, students learn the branches of data science and how data is managed and organized to make it easily accessible. The knowledge gained from this course will equip the student with the skills needed for developing effective and useful software designs and algorithms.
Matrix Algebra
This course teaches students how to use matrix algebra in experimental design. Students learn how to analyze complex data and use linear algebra to explore theories that involve two or more matrices. This skill is very useful when conducting research.
Probability and Random Variables
The course on probability and random variables in the field of artificial intelligence aims to teach PhD students how to reduce uncertainty when there is a margin of error as a result of the inadequacy of perfect information.
Machine Learning in Practice
In this course, students will put all that they have learned in the machine learning field into practice. They will apply their skills and knowledge in the areas of mathematics, computing, engineering, and data analysis to real-world datasets and examples.
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How to Get a PhD in Artificial Intelligence: Doctoral Program Requirements
To get a PhD in Artificial Intelligence, students must meet specific criteria that vary with each school and program. Some of the more common ones include a competency requirement, a project requirement, a breadth requirement, a teaching requirement, and approval of the thesis. Students also need to pass the necessary examinations before a PhD in Artificial Intelligence can be awarded.
Potential Careers with an Artificial Intelligence Degree
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PhD in Artificial Intelligence Salary and Job Outlook
The job outlook for artificial intelligence PhD holders is very good, as we are living in a time of rapid technological advancements. The US Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) predicts a growth of 22 percent in jobs like computer and research scientist through 2030. With an average salary of $115,000 for AI PhD holders, as stated above, you can expect to earn a great salary with your degree.
What Can You Do With a PhD in Artificial Intelligence?
With a PhD in Artificial Intelligence, you can get employed by top tech companies and work on a broad array of AI applications, programs, and systems. These include facial-recognition software, self-driving cars and drones, digital personal assistants, and more. AI students gain employment as computer scientists, AI experts, machine learning engineers, computational linguists, and robotics engineers after graduation. Here are some of the best jobs for artificial intelligence PhD holders.
Best Jobs with a PhD in Artificial Intelligence
- Big Data Engineer/Architect
- Software Architect
- Machine Learning Engineer
- Software Engineer
- Data Scientist
What Is the Average Salary for a PhD in Artificial Intelligence?
The average salary for a graduate with a PhD in Artificial Intelligence is $115,000, according to PayScale. The exact salary you can expect will depend on a wide range of factors, which include your job title and responsibilities, the industry in which you are employed, your specific experience and knowledge, and the company’s geographic region.
Highest-Paying Artificial Intelligence Jobs for PhD Grads
| Artificial Intelligence PhD Jobs | Average Salary |
|---|---|
| Artificial Intelligence Researcher | $131,490 |
| Senior Software Engineer | $126,668 |
| Machine Learning Engineer | $112,567 |
| Robotics Engineer | $95,300 |
| Computational Linguist | $83,335 |
Best Artificial Intelligence Jobs with a Doctorate
The best artificial intelligence jobs with a doctorate degree are software architect, big data engineer/architect, machine learning engineer, data scientist, and software engineer. According to BLS, AI is taking a bigger role in our security, which will lead to even more job prospects in the field.
Is a PhD in Artificial Intelligence Worth It?
Yes, a PhD in Artificial Intelligence is worth it. Artificial intelligence and cognitive technology are expected to be the catalyst for the next scientific revolution. In a data-rich world, creating AI technology that can learn via developing and drawing conclusions based on human behavior could change the future and offer limitless industrial, social, and scientific possibilities.
As the world becomes more dependent on advancing technologies and intelligent machines, there is an ever-growing market for PhD holders in the field of artificial intelligence. A PhD in Artificial Intelligence will provide you with expertise in the field and qualify you for high demand careers in the field.
Additional Reading About Artificial Intelligence
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PhD in Artificial Intelligence FAQ
A PhD in Artificial Intelligence offers numerous lucrative career opportunities such as robotics engineer, senior software engineer, and machine learning expert. You will also be qualified to teach in a postsecondary institution.
The best places to pursue a PhD in Artificial Intelligence are accredited universities and colleges. Some of the top such institutions in the US include Arizona State University, Drexel University, and Syracuse University.
For students interested in a career in artificial intelligence, a computer science doctoral degree is a popular option. Many colleges and universities offer computer science doctorate programs with a focus on artificial intelligence or machine learning.
Because artificial intelligence is still a relatively new field, it’s difficult to know exactly how profitable the AI sector is. The value of artificial intelligence to the global economy will be $13 trillion by 2030, according to a report by the European Parliament. The world’s growing dependency on technological innovations and intelligent machines indicates that more growth is coming in this field.
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