The University of Texas at Dallas offers a 33-credit Master of Science in Computer Science with dedicated Intelligent Systems and Data Sciences tracks. Both tracks include substantial artificial intelligence, machine learning, or data science coursework, which makes the program a strong fit for this site.
Quick Facts
| Fact | Details |
|---|---|
| School | University of Texas at Dallas |
| Location | Richardson, Texas |
| Degree | Master of Science in Computer Science |
| Credits | 33 semester credits |
| Format | Campus, with daytime and evening courses |
| Tracks | Intelligent Systems; Data Sciences; five other CS tracks |
| Estimated tuition | About $28,951 for Texas residents or $54,451 for nonresidents |
| Estimated length | 18–24 months full time |
| Thesis option | Thesis or non-thesis |
Curriculum
The 2026 UT Dallas graduate catalog requires 15 credits of track-specific core courses and at least 18 credits of approved electives. All students complete a minimum of 33 semester credits, although students who need prerequisite courses may exceed that total.
The Intelligent Systems core includes Natural Language Processing, Design and Analysis of Computer Algorithms, Artificial Intelligence, and Machine Learning. Students also choose Database Design or Advanced Operating Systems.
The Data Sciences track requires Statistical Methods for Data Science, Big Data Management and Analytics, Design and Analysis of Computer Algorithms, and Machine Learning. Its fifth core course may cover Natural Language Processing, Video Analytics, Statistical Methods in AI and Machine Learning, Social Network Analytics, or Database Design.
Credits and Program Length
The MS requires 33 credits. A full-time student taking 9–12 credits per semester can reasonably plan for about 18–24 months, although UT Dallas does not promise one fixed completion time.
Students without an undergraduate computer science background may need leveling courses in programming, discrete structures, algorithms, or operating systems. Those extra courses can increase both the time and cost of the degree.
Tuition and Cost
The 2026–27 UT Dallas tuition tables charge by semester course load rather than one flat per-credit rate. Using the variable tuition plan and a 12-credit, 12-credit, and 9-credit schedule, estimated tuition and required ECS supplemental fees total about $28,951 for Texas residents and $54,451 for nonresidents.
The estimate adds the published semester totals to the Erik Jonsson School of Engineering and Computer Science fee of $95 per credit. It assumes completion of exactly 33 credits and excludes books, housing, transportation, insurance, and any leveling courses.
UT Dallas also publishes guaranteed tuition plans with higher initial rates. Students should compare both plans because the better option can depend on enrollment pace and the number of semesters needed.
Admissions
Applicants should hold a bachelor’s degree with two semesters of calculus, one semester of linear algebra, and a strong programming foundation. UT Dallas lists a minimum 3.0 GPA in the last 60 undergraduate credits and recommends at least a 3.3 GPA in quantitative courses.
The application requires three recommendations and a statement of purpose. GRE scores are optional supplemental material under the current catalog, and the program admits students for fall, spring, and summer entry.
Machine Learning and AI Focus
The Intelligent Systems track provides the clearest AI route. Four of its five core courses directly address artificial intelligence, machine learning, natural language processing, or the algorithms that support those fields.
The Data Sciences track fits students who want to combine machine learning with statistics, big-data systems, analytics, and database work. Electives allow either track to add topics such as computer vision, video analytics, and advanced AI or ML methods when offered.
Campus Format
UT Dallas classifies this as a campus program in Richardson. The computer science department offers daytime and evening courses, which can help working professionals, but the university does not present the full degree as an online program.
The evening schedule also allows part-time enrollment. Part-time students should expect a longer completion period and should calculate tuition based on their actual credit load each semester.
Thesis or Non-Thesis Plan
Students may choose a thesis or non-thesis plan. The thesis route combines at least 27 course credits with 6 thesis credits under a supervising professor.
The non-thesis route requires at least 33 course credits. This option may suit students who want broader coursework and a direct path into industry roles.
Who Is This Program Best For?
Choose UT Dallas if you want a campus-based computer science degree with a defined AI or data science track, access to both daytime and evening classes, and the option to complete a research thesis.
Students who need a fully online degree or a low fixed total price should compare other Texas programs. Nonresidents should pay close attention to the large tuition difference.
Bottom Line
UT Dallas offers one of the stronger computer science options for AI and machine learning study in Texas. The 33-credit degree provides focused Intelligent Systems and Data Sciences tracks, flexible evening courses, and a thesis option, but nonresident tuition is a major tradeoff.
- East Texas A&M University - Commerce
- Rice University - Houston
- Tarleton State University - Stephenville
- Texas A&M University-Kingsville - Kingsville
- Texas Woman’s University - Denton
- University of North Texas - Denton
- University of Texas at Arlington - Arlington
- University of Texas at Austin - Austin
- University of Texas at El Paso - El Paso
- University of Texas at Tyler - Tyler