California Machine Learning Masters Degree Programs

The Master of Science in Electrical and Computer Engineering with a concentration in Machine Learning and Data Science at USC provides rigorous training in data science, machine learning, and signal processing. The 32-unit curriculum blends theory and practical applications, preparing graduates for high-demand roles like machine learning engineer, data scientist, and software engineer. Students can pursue a thesis or directed research, gaining hands-on experience. Located in Los Angeles, the program offers strong industry connections, with top employers including Amazon, Google, and Meta. The average reported salary is $136,400. International students benefit from OPT STEM extension eligibility. GRE scores are not required for 2027 applications. Scholarship consideration is available for fall applicants. This on-campus program is ideal for those seeking a deep technical foundation in machine learning and data science.

• No entrance exam required
• Test optional
• 32 total credit hours
• Starts spring/fall
• $136,400 median earnings
• No thesis or capstone required
• Financial aid available
• Scholarships available
• Eligible for OPT STEM extension
• Average reported salary $136,400

The MS in Electrical Engineering with a concentration in Machine Learning and Data Science at USC Viterbi offers a rigorous, focused curriculum covering theory, methods, and applications of data science, machine learning, and signal processing. Students can complete the program in just 2-3 semesters on campus. Graduates are prepared for top roles like Software Engineer, Electrical Engineer, and Computer Vision Engineer at leading companies such as Apple, Google, and Amazon. This program stands out for its hands-on training and strong industry connections. Whether you're launching your career or advancing in tech, you'll gain the skills to solve real-world problems in AI and data science.

• Complete in Complete your masters in 2-3 semesters!
• Top job titles: Software Engineer, Electrical Engineer, Computer Vision Engineer
• Top employers: Apple, Intel, Google, Boeing, Amazon, Cisco, Qualcomm
• Available exclusively on campus
• Focused training in data science and machine learning

Dominican University of California's MS in Business Analytics and Artificial Intelligence offers a machine learning concentration that prepares students for data-driven leadership. The curriculum covers machine learning for business, data analysis, cloud computing, and ethics, with hands-on projects using AI tools. Designed for career changers and professionals, the hybrid format includes evening and weekend classes, allowing students to complete the degree in one year. No prior coding or statistics background is required. Graduates pursue roles as data scientists, AI analysts, and business intelligence managers. The STEM-designated program provides international students with up to three years of OPT. Personalized advising, career counseling, and scholarships up to 30% of tuition support student success.

• $1,226 per credit
• 12-Month program
• Complete in One Year
• 36 total credit hours
• Apply by 2026-07-01
• 1 start dates per year
• Starts fall
• 1 letters of recommendation (minimum)
• Financial aid available
• Scholarships available

San Jose State University's Master of Science in Statistics with a specialization in Machine Learning offers a rigorous curriculum blending probability, statistics, and programming. Students gain hands-on experience developing machine-learning algorithms that enable computers to learn from data autonomously. This program is designed for those aiming to become practicing statisticians in business, government, or industry, with a strong emphasis on AI applications. Coursework covers advanced statistical modeling, data analysis, and algorithm design, preparing graduates to tackle real-world challenges. The campus-based program fosters collaboration with faculty in the Department of Mathematics and Statistics, providing a supportive learning environment. Graduates emerge with the skills to pursue roles such as data scientist, machine learning engineer, or statistician in various sectors. The specialization's focus on the intersection of statistics and machine learning sets it apart, equipping students with practical, in-demand expertise.

• Develops skills in probability, statistics, and programming
• Prepares for careers in business, government, or industry
• Focus on machine-learning algorithm development

Santa Clara University's Master of Science in Electrical and Computer Engineering offers a focused concentration in Signal Processing and Machine Learning. This 46-unit program covers signal processing algorithms, machine learning techniques, and their real-world applications. Students take a core course and electives in areas like deep learning or communications, with hands-on labs and optional thesis research. Graduates pursue careers as machine learning engineers, data scientists, or signal processing specialists in tech. The program features personalized faculty advising, six focus areas for breadth, and no forced thesis requirement. Located in Silicon Valley, the program provides strong industry connections.

• 6 concentration options
• 46 total credit hours
• 3.0 GPA minimum
• No thesis or capstone required
• Optional thesis up to 9 units
• Advisor-approved program of studies
• Transfer up to 9 quarter units
• Residence: 37 units at SCU
• Six-year completion limit

The Master of Science in Data Science and Artificial Intelligence offers a concentration in Algorithms, AI & Machine Learning, covering artificial intelligence, data mining, pattern analysis, deep learning, and generative AI. The curriculum blends theory with hands-on training in software system building, preparing graduates for data science roles or doctoral studies. Core areas include machine learning algorithms, big data platforms, statistical learning, and data visualization. Students complete a culminating experience—an applied research project or master’s thesis—and may pursue optional industrial research. This 30-credit program equips students with computational and system-building skills for careers in tech and research.

• 5 concentration options
• Entrance exam required
• Exams: GRE, TOEFL, IELTS
• 30 total credit hours
• 3.0 GPA minimum
• 2 letters of recommendation (minimum)
• Thesis or capstone option
• Applied Research Project or Master's Thesis
• Hands-on training in software systems
• Prepares for PhD or industry leadership

The Master of Science in Computer Science with a concentration in Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning at California State University, East Bay, combines a strong theoretical foundation with hands-on application. Core courses cover advanced algorithms, theory of computation, operating systems, web systems, and cybersecurity. The AI and Machine Learning concentration includes advanced AI, computer vision, and machine learning. You'll complete a capstone project, exam, or thesis. Small classes foster close interaction with faculty, and many courses are offered in the late afternoon or evening for working students. Located near Silicon Valley, the program offers internship and career opportunities at top tech companies. Graduates pursue roles as software engineers, data analysts, AI specialists, and more. The department awards scholarships annually and encourages a diverse student body. With a GRE requirement and a minimum 3.0 GPA, this program prepares you for advanced careers in AI and computing.

• 3 concentration options
• Entrance exam required
• Exams: GRE
• 3.0 GPA minimum
• Prerequisite courses required
• Thesis or capstone option
• Scholarships available
• Small class sizes
• Evening classes available
• Proximity to Silicon Valley

The Health Data Science MS at UCSF integrates machine learning with data science and biostatistics, preparing students for roles in clinical research and biomedical innovation. This two-year campus program, taught by faculty in Epidemiology & Biostatistics, covers precision medicine, electronic health records, and analysis of complex datasets. Designed for quantitative science learners and biomedical scientists, the curriculum emphasizes applying machine learning methods to real-world health data. Graduates will be equipped to work in research institutions, hospitals, and the pharmaceutical industry, driving data-driven healthcare solutions. The program offers a strong foundation in data science methods and epidemiological thinking, making it distinct for those seeking to specialize in machine learning within health data science.

• 2-Year program
• Complete in two-year program
• Focus on biomedical applications
• Covers machine learning and biostatistics
• Prepares for clinical research careers
• Faculty from Epidemiology & Biostatistics
• Intended for quantitative science learners
• Also for biomedical scientists
• Addresses precision medicine and EHRs

Claremont Graduate University's MS in Statistics & Machine Learning is a 32-unit, 2-year program designed for students who want to blend deep statistical theory with cutting-edge machine learning techniques. The curriculum covers core areas in statistics, machine learning, and applied statistics, with courses like Statistical Learning, Mathematics of Machine Learning, and Advanced Big Data Analysis. Students work closely with faculty who have expertise in applied mathematics, data science, and computational science, and can pursue an independent study leading to a publication-quality report. The program is STEM-designated, offering international students up to 36 months of OPT. Graduates pursue careers in data science, machine learning engineering, and analytics at top firms like Northrop Grumman, Jet Propulsion Laboratory, and Stanford University. The Claremont Center for the Mathematical Sciences provides a vibrant research community, and the Engineering & Computational Mathematics Clinic offers hands-on industry project experience. With spring, summer, and fall start dates, the program is flexible for both recent graduates and working professionals.

• No entrance exam required
• $2,070 per credit
• 2-Year program
• 32 total credit hours
• Starts spring/summer/fall
• 2 letters of recommendation (minimum)
• $80 application fee
• Financial aid available
• Scholarships available
• STEM designated program