Edited By Christine Skopec
Review & Contribution By Ryan Adams
Unlock the future with a Machine Learning Degree Online. Master algorithms, advance AI, and shape innovation from anywhere, at your pace.
Machine Learning, a field of artificial intelligence and computer science, employs algorithms and data to comprehend human development and learning and enhance statistical accuracy. An online bachelor’s in machine learning degree online equips individuals with skills in designing software, algorithms, and predictive models, enabling machines to identify patterns and act without constant feedback autonomously. This online degree in machine learning program offers in-depth, advanced, and hands-on learning experiences in developing and deploying AI frameworks. Job prospects in this domain are expected to grow by approximately 36%, surpassing the average for other professions. Graduates may pursue careers as data scientists, business intelligence developers, big data engineers, AI data analysts, and more.
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Southern New Hampshire University
PROGRAM: Find Best Degree
Southern New Hampshire University is a private, nonprofit, accredited institution with more than 3,000 on campus students, over 170,000 online students, making it one of the fastest growing universities in the nation. Founded in 1932, we’ve been relentlessly reinventing higher education ever since and have gained national recognition for our dedication to helping students transform their lives and the lives of those around them.
We’re proud to provide affordable, accessible education that students can pursue on our 300-acre campus in Manchester, NH, or via our innovative online platform.
SNHU has earned the GetEducated.com Best Buy and Best of Business – Best Online Degree awards and is consistently ranked as a top Military Friendly® School by G.I Jobs®.
Find the Best Machine Learning Degree Online Programs
Finding the best online machine learning program can be challenging as this field overlaps with undergraduate programs in artificial intelligence, data analysis, etc. There are many factors, like the quality of faculty and accreditation achieved by institutions, concentrations, electives offered, etc. The teams at FBD have evaluated many programs and colleges from all over the U.S. using a proprietary methodology and prepared a list of institutions offering the best machine learning online degree programs.
| Univ | Address | Tuition | Grad Rate |
| Carnegie Mellon University | 5000 Forbes Avenue, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15213 | $63,829 | 92% |
Universities and programs are ranked by various factors, such as affordability, curriculum and coursework, reputation and availability, program length, statistics, the potential of employment, and return on investment for the students. For a more in-depth analysis, please read about our rankings methodology page.
What to Expect from a Machine Learning Degree Online Program
The undergraduate program in machine learning focuses on core machine learning and predictive modeling algorithms, as well as different paradigms like deep learning and artificial neural networks. Through the program, students explore applications that range from natural language processing to drawing meaningful conclusions from large sets of distributed data. As students of this program, they become proficient in core programming languages, and it helps them tackle coursework in algorithm analysis, operations research, data structures, etc. The online degree in machine learning encompasses 120 credits and can be completed in an average of two years. After graduating with a bachelor’s, students can expect to be employed as an AI engineer, machine learning engineer, data scientist, business intelligence developer, big data engineer, and more.
Curriculum and Coursework
Those enrolled in the machine learning online degree program are expected to have a background in the principles and skills of basic computer science, familiarity with probability theory, basics of multivariable calculus and linear algebra, and more. The program’s curriculum helps students gain primary knowledge that a machine learning engineer is expected to know, including computer science and computer programming, data science, mathematics, etc. Each university will have varied requirements for students. However, there may be courses like English language and communication skills, data structures and algorithms, discrete mathematics, programming in JAVA, applied mathematics, and more. Some of the standard courses across curricula include:
Data Analysis and Tools
This course helps students understand how to analyze and collect data about organizations or businesses to improve their data-driven decisions. It includes learning about using data for strategic benefit and success. Students may gain knowledge of various data analysis methods and techniques, including regression analysis, factor analysis, cohort analysis, cluster analysis, time series analysis, and so on.
College Algebra
The introductory course in algebra is a critical course that helps students familiarize the learners with many fundamental mathematical concepts, including polynomials, linear and quadratic equations, logarithms, exponential functions, etc. A college algebra course is essential to understand the correct analytical skills learned at the college algebra level. It has practical applications in science, health care, business, and other non-technical domains like design, teaching, and other parts requiring analytical thinking.
Introductory Data Analysis
This course helps obtain raw data and convert helpful information for users’ decision-making. Students understand how data is collected and analyzed to answer questions, disprove theories, or test hypotheses. They learn to answer big questions backed by data analyses and summarize conclusions. This course may include understanding the data analysis process, including defining questions, collecting and cleaning data, analyzing and sharing results, etc.
Introduction to Machine Learning
This course provides foundational algorithms, data analysis, and statistical modeling knowledge. Students explore key concepts such as supervised and unsupervised learning, reinforcement learning, and neural networks, preparing them for advanced studies and applications in artificial intelligence.
Probability and Statistics
This course equips students with foundational knowledge essential for advanced data analysis and modeling. Topics include probability theory, statistical inference, hypothesis testing, and Bayesian methods. Students gain the skills needed to analyze data, make predictions, and optimize machine learning algorithms.
Some of the other common courses are:
- Natural Language Processing
- Computer Imaging
- Deep Learning
- Introduction to Databases
- Algorithm Analysis
- Linear Algebra
- Motion Dynamics
- Data Structures
- High-level programming
- Vector Calculus
- Distributed data management
- Predictive modeling
Learning Outcomes and Skills Gained
The program teaches students how to use machine learning models to generate output using machine learning algorithms and data ingestion. Knowledge about predictive algorithms is also gained to understand how to create predictive models and gain predictions based on data that trained the model. Students learn the skills used in automated systems that can be applied to various fields like transportation, space exploration, and many components of daily life. Through the degree, students gain various skills that are transferrable to the professional field, including the ability to:
- demonstrate understanding of various frameworks of machine learning and artificial intelligence within autonomous systems;
- create autonomous systems by cognitively using modern-day programming languages;
- develop and implement various machine learning algorithms and test them in different autonomous systems frameworks;
- improve machine learning models to develop an understanding of the various kinds of associations existing between several data elements;
- use machine learning techniques to improve the accuracy of predictive models of data;
- demonstrate understanding of deep learning methods that incorporate neural networks iteratively learning from data;
- demonstrate learning of advanced mathematical knowledge to recognize many types of data sets and define rudimentary tendencies and patterns in data;
- demonstrate the use of machine learning platforms like Microsoft, Google, Amazon, etc., for advanced programming algorithms and techniques to create systems capable of ingesting particular data types.
Types of Degrees Machine Learning Students Can Obtain
Machine learning programs are often integrated with data science or artificial intelligence degrees. Sometimes, the Bachelor of Arts or Science programs in Artificial Intelligence provide machine learning as a concentration or elective in some instances. The most common machine learning online degree in the United States is the Bachelor of Science in Machine Learning Program.
Bachelor of Science in Machine Learning
The Bachelor of Science in Machine Learning provides a broad foundation for machine learning and patterns of statistical recognition. Students learn about supervised and unsupervised learning, reinforcement learning and control, learning theory, and other applications of machine learning and design for developing machine algorithms. Through the degree, they gain proficiency in non-trivial computer programming in Python and more, probability theory, multivariate calculus, etc.
Areas of Specialization for Machine Learning Students
Specialization subjects aid individuals in becoming experts in a distinct domain or skill set within their field of study. Individuals can cultivate a lucrative and fulfilling career path by specializing in a particular area and attaining expertise. Online degree programs in machine learning do not typically offer concentrations due to their integration within broader fields such as computer science, data science, and artificial intelligence.
Full-Time and Part-Time Programs
It could take about 4 to 5 years to complete a bachelor’s in machine learning online. The time to complete the program can also be influenced by online, offline, and hybrid modes, including synchronous and asynchronous classes. Students prefer online classes because they can complete the program at their own pace and focus on different priorities like work, personal chores, and more. They will take less time to complete the program if it is completed in an accelerated form. The duration of the program would also depend on how many credits students complete in a semester. Here is a quick summary of the duration of the program:
- Time to complete part-time machine learning bachelor’s degree: 4-6 years
- Time to complete full-time machine learning bachelor’s degree: 4 years
Accelerated Machine Learning Programs
Accelerated programs help students complete their degree in less time than the regular 4-5 years. The machine learning online degree programs in accelerated formats can be completed in less time, reducing the overall duration of the program. Some accelerated programs combine bachelor’s and master’s in machine learning. Hence, students can complete both of these degrees in less time. Accelerated programs are opted for by those who want to work while completing their academic programs or have other personal commitments.
Requirements for Getting into a Machine Learning Degree Online Program
Most colleges have a list of admission criteria that students must meet to be able to pursue an online bachelor’s degree in machine learning. The admission procedure for programs in machine learning is competitive as there is much demand for these programs. Institutions may have varying criteria for admissions; however, the most common machine learning degree online admission requirements are:
- Previous official transcripts from high school or college level
- An undergraduate degree with a cumulative grade point average of 2.5 or more on a 4.0 scale (this would differ based on the programs)
- General education development diploma results
- ACT and SAT scores
- Personal statement or statement of purpose
- Personal essay (differs with institution requirement)
- Some colleges require PSAT scores
How to Ensure a Machine Learning Degree Online Program Is Accredited
The accreditation process ensures that colleges regularly measure their performance and that students receive a quality education. When a college receives accreditation, applicants can be assured that the programs will be of a certain standard of quality and expertise. Schools sometimes receive both national and regional levels of accreditation. Generally, institutions providing the machine learning online degree acquire regional accreditation. Some of the accrediting bodies across the United States are listed below:
- New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE)
- Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)
- Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
- Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
- Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU)
- Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC)
Database of Accredited Postsecondary Institutions[1] and Programs provides data about the list of institutions and programs recognized by accrediting agencies and agencies approved by the state. To understand the accreditation process, students can refer to the Council for Higher Education Accreditation[2], a national organization providing accreditation to most academic programs across the United States.
Where to Find Free Online Courses for Machine Learning Bachelor’s Students
In machine learning, prospective students can access many free online courses, enriching their understanding of the subject. These courses often explore industry practices, offering valuable insights. Completion may result in certificates, though it’s important to note that these may lack the accreditation of formal courses. Nonetheless, they serve as invaluable resources for expanding knowledge and skill sets in machine learning. Some free machine learning courses are:
| Course | Provided by | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Machine Learning Introduction for Everyone[3] | Coursera | This course helps students understand data science and machine learning. They learn about the history of machine learning, applications, models, lifecycles, tools, etc. Students can develop concrete skills in machine learning, differentiate between unsupervised and supervised learning, and evaluate classifications of accuracy, precision, recall, and confusion matrices. |
| Data Science: Machine Learning[4] | Harvard University | This is an 8-week program wherein students learn about the fundamentals of machine learning, performing cross-validation to avoid overtraining, popular algorithms of machine learning, building recommendation systems, and understanding regularization systems. |
| Machine Learning[5] | edX | This course helps individuals learn the fundamentals of machine learning and algorithms to improve data-driven learning without human intervention. It helps participants learn about various models and methods that enable them to apply the principles in real-world situations, ranging from identifying trending topics to building recommendation engines to plotting the path of a movie. |
Ways to Pay for a Machine Learning Degree Online Program
The cost of machine learning degree online programs could range from $11,766-$60,000 in the United States. The cost of these undergraduate programs could depend on the tuition fees and travel costs that a student would need to pay. Due to such charges, students might work part-time or full-time to fund their education. Here are a few ways students can fund their master’s in machine learning degree online programs:
FAFSA
FAFSA, or The Free Application for Student Aid, is an application form that determines the status of a candidate’s eligibility for federal financial aid. To understand more about FAFSA, read the FAFSA guide.
Federal direct loans
These are loans of low interest, which governments fund. Students will not be needed to repay these loans until they graduate from the programs or are unemployed.
Scholarships
Scholarships are a possibility of funding that students do not need to pay back to the organization providing the scholarship unless they cannot fulfill the terms of the aid being granted. Institutions can provide this funding based on academic merit or achievements in music, sports, art, etc.
Private student loans
Some students would also need to take up private educational loans provided by national banks, financial institutions, and federal governments. Grants and Donors are also available for those who find it difficult to repay such loans.
Grants
Grants may be awarded to students based on their merit. Federal and state governments, non-profit institutions, and educational institutions provide them for specific purposes.
Scholarships for Machine Learning Degree Online Students
Scholarships are a good way for students to support their machine learning degree online scholarships. Meritorious applicants can apply for such scholarships, which will help them reduce their expenses considerably. Those who get scholarships to fund their education will be less burdened and can focus on their education and growth. Applicants of this program should note that few direct scholarships may be available in machine learning. Therefore, they should look up generic scholarships provided to science and technology programs, artificial intelligence, data science, and related programs. Here are some machine learning degree online scholarships students can explore:
| Scholarship | Description | Award/Amount | Application Deadline |
|---|---|---|---|
Great Minds in STEM Scholarship[6] | The Great Minds in STEM or GMiS scholarships are provided to applicants who demonstrate merit through academic leadership, campus activities, and achievements. The students must pursue technology, science, engineering, data science, and related programs. | $500-$5,000 | April 30 |
Association for the Advancement of Artificial Intelligence[7] | The Association for the Advancement of Artificial Intelligence (AAAI) provides scholarships to aid students in pursuing studies or research in artificial intelligence. These scholarships are geared towards nurturing talent and fostering innovation in AI-related domains. By offering financial support and acknowledgment to outstanding students, they contribute significantly to advancing research and applications in artificial intelligence. | Varies | December annually |
Career Opportunities and Salaries After Graduating with a Machine Learning Degree Online
Machine Learning is very lucrative, and bachelor’s in machine learning graduates have many opportunities. They can explore roles across industries that require expertise in data analysis, pattern recognition, and algorithm development. These positions offer avenues for professional growth and advancement, allowing graduates to apply their skills in diverse and dynamic environments. Many career paths in the machine learning domain pay very well, including
- Machine Learning Engineer
- Data Scientist
- Nlp Scientist
- Business Intelligence Developer
- Human-Centered Machine Learning Designer
- Research Scientist
- Data Engineer
- Business Intelligence Analyst
- Artificial Intelligence Engineer
- Computer Vision Engineer
Some of these professions that machine learning online degree graduates can take up are explained below:
| Occupation | Skills Required | Median Annual Salary | Job Growth (up to 2031) | Job Description |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Data Scientists[8] | Analytical skills, technical skills, and statistical skills | $103,500 | 35% (much faster than average) | Data scientists use various analytical tools and methods to help them extract meaningful insights from data. They also use machine learning to classify data. They analyze and interpret complex digital data using website statistics, primarily assisting businesses in their decision-making. |
Machine Learning Engineer[9] | Technical skills, statistical skills, written communication, and analytical skills. | $117,338 | No Data Available | A machine learning engineer designs self-running software and brings machines the ability to make automatic and predictive models. They work with other professionals to take information and feed data into discovered models. These professionals are also expected to use theoretical models within data science. |
Computer and Information Research Scientists[10] | Analytical, communication, detail-oriented, interpersonal, logical, math, and problem-solving skills. | $136,620 | 23% (much faster than average) | Computer and information research scientists explore computing challenges and develop models and theories to address them. They also collaborate with engineers and scientists to solve complex computing challenges and determine computing needs and system requirements. |
Operations Research Analysts [11] | Analytical, communication, critical thinking, interpersonal, math, and problem-solving skills | $85,720 | 25% (much faster than the average) | Operations research analysts use logic and mathematics to help organizations make informed decisions and solve challenges. Professionals can identify challenges in business, healthcare, logistics, and other fields. They also advise other decision-makers to take appropriate actions to solve problems. |
Certifications and Licensing for Machine Learning Degree Online Graduates
Prospective students or students currently enrolled in an online degree in machine learning
could look up professional certifications to help them advance their careers. The whole process of professional certification is standardized and regulated. Completing such certifications will enable students to grow in their interest fields. They can also prove to employers the in-depth knowledge and advanced skills they would possess through such certifications. Some certifications that can help undergraduates advance their careers are:
Professional ML Engineer Certification-Google Cloud [12]
This certification helps individuals build, design, and produce machine learning models, which can be used to solve business challenges using Google Cloud technologies and knowledge of the proven techniques and models in machine learning. It enables individuals to assess their ability to develop machine learning models, architect solutions in the domain, and design data processing and preparation systems.
AWS Certified Machine Learning – Specialty Certification[13]
This certification helps individuals gain credentials through which organizations hiring individuals can identify their critical skills to implement cloud initiatives. It is intended for those professionals who want specific data science or related roles and have some experience in developing and running machine learning or deep learning workloads in the AWS cloud and so on.
Professional Certificate Program in Machine Learning & Artificial Intelligence[14]
This certificate can guide individuals through the latest technology and advancement approaches in artificial intelligence technologies like predictive analytics, deep learning, algorithmic methods, natural language processing, and more. It allows individuals to learn how to conduct research and develop cutting-edge technologies by using best practices and building effective artificial intelligence systems.
Licensing in the field of machine learning in the United States depends on various factors, such as level of expertise, employer, education, and state where the individual works. Generally, a bachelor’s degree in machine learning is enough to start working as a professional. However, those who want to work in related fields like data science in advanced roles will need to obtain licensing.
Additional Resources for Machine Learning Degree Online Graduates
Additional resources for students pursuing a bachelor’s degree in machine learning online could be membership in prestigious organizations, membership in nationally recognized bodies, etc. Membership in such organizations helps students access many resources like internships in machine learning and artificial intelligence, research projects, or project grants in data science and interact with esteemed professionals in the machine learning field. They also get the opportunity to observe the inner workings of the domain closely. Some such organizations are listed below:
| Title/Resource | Description |
|---|---|
| Association for the Advancement of Artificial Intelligence | The Association for the Advancement of Artificial Intelligence is one of the premier scientific societies dedicated to advancing scientific understanding of the mechanisms underlying intelligent behavior and thought and its embodiment in machines. |
| The National Artificial Intelligence Initiative | This association is an initiative taken up as a follow-through on the National Artificial Intelligence Initiative Act of 2020. It aims to ensure the continued leadership of the US in the research and development areas of artificial intelligence. They want to present resources to spread awareness of this field’s ethical considerations and how AI activities must be coordinated across federal agencies. |
| Data Science Council of America | The Data Science Council of America exemplifies leadership among data science organizations. It drives the initiatives, policies, and decision-making processes of critical moments in data science and empowers the industry’s leaders and stakeholders to develop versatile data talent. |
| Institute for Operations Research and Management Science | The Institute for Operations Research and Management Science, or INFORMS, promotes best practices in analytics, data science, management science, and more. It enhances professionals’ ability to participate in different programs and benefit from professional development services. |
| United States Data Science Institute | The United States Data Science Institute facilitates the transformation, capability, and innovation of organizations, academia, non-profit organizations, and governments in data science. They are committed to raising the global standards that data science professionals have. |
FAQs About Machine Learning Degree Online Programs
Can you get a machine learning degree online?
Yes. Many undergraduate degrees offer this machine learning program online. Due to the nature of the program, which requires much practical application of the degree and training students over entire datasets, it requires out-of-core algorithms. These programs often allow working professionals to balance their studies with other commitments. Therefore, it may be more feasible for some candidates to take up this program online rather than on campus.
Is there a difference between machine learning and artificial intelligence?
What can you do with a machine learning degree online?
How long does it take to complete a master’s in machine learning?
Is an online degree in machine learning worth it?
Can I collaborate with fellow students and faculty in an online master’s in machine learning program?
Citations:
Database of Accredited Postsecondary Institutions
Council for Higher Education Accreditation
Machine Learning Introduction for Everyone- Coursera
Data Science: Machine Learning- Harvard
Great Minds in STEM Scholarship
Association for the Advancement of Artificial Intelligence
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics: Occupational Outlook for Data Scientists
Payscale- Machine Learning Engineer
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics: Occupational Outlook for Operations Research Analysts
Professional ML Engineer Certification-Google Cloud
AWS Certified Machine Learning – Specialty Certification
Professional Certificate Program in Machine Learning & Artificial Intelligence
Disclaimer:
The average tuition (based on degree type for in-state students), average graduation rates, and rankings are based on data from various sources, including the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS), and are variable over time. All rankings and statistics are subject to change. The rankings are solely the opinion of Find Best Degrees (FBD) and are based on our proprietary methodology. They do not represent the views of the institutions or organizations mentioned, nor do they represent any official government census or survey. Furthermore, any views or opinions expressed on this page are of FBD’s researchers and teams. Unless otherwise specified, they do not represent the thoughts and opinions of the individuals, institutions, or organizations mentioned. This page’s content is provided solely for informational purposes, with data drawn from various sources, including IPEDS. FBD and its employees make no guarantees regarding the accuracy or completeness of any information found on this page or by following any link. FBD will not be held liable for any errors or omissions in this material nor any losses, injuries, or damages resulting from the exposure or use of this information. Although the information on this page is/was correct at the time of publication, readers should exercise caution because some or all of the provided information may have changed over time, potentially resulting in inaccuracies. For more information, please read our Terms of Service. Trademarks and logos are the property of their registered owners.