Oklahoma Masters in Machine Learning Degree Programs

In Oklahoma, AI and Machine Learning are fueling significant investments in data center infrastructure, strategic state-led initiatives, and a growing emphasis on tech workforce development. This dynamic environment is creating substantial opportunities for graduates with advanced degrees in Machine Learning.

For example:

• Google is committing over $3 billion in Oklahoma, including significant expansions to its data center in Pryor.
• Core Scientific is establishing a $182 million, 100-megawatt high-performance computing facility in Muskogee.
• Jericho Energy Ventures (JEV) is launching AI Modular Data Centers directly on its producing oil and gas JV projects in Oklahoma
• Emirati billionaire Hussain Sajwani’s DAMAC has pledged $20 billion to expand AI and cloud infrastructure in Oklahoma and other states.

Despite these advances, many Oklahoma employers report difficulty filling ML engineer and data‐scientist roles.

With a specialized master’s in machine learning degree, you can gain the skills to power Oklahoma’s next generation of intelligent applications.

2026 Best Schools for MML Degrees in Oklahoma

If you're looking for the best schools for MML degrees in Oklahoma, mastersinmachinelearning.org has done the research to help you find top programs. Our rankings highlight institutions that excel in machine learning education, based on thorough criteria. We focus on factors like faculty expertise, curriculum quality, and career outcomes to guide your decision. For a detailed look at how we rank these schools, check out our methodology at https://www.mastersinmachinelearning.org/ranking-methodology/.

#1

University of Oklahoma-Norman Campus

Norman, OK - Public 4-Year - ou.edu

Master's - Master of Science in Computer Science (Machine Learning)

Online Learning - Visit Website

The University of Oklahoma's online Master of Science in Computer Science with a Machine Learning concentration is a 33-credit program that can be finished in 21 months, offering flexibility for working professionals. It covers advanced topics such as artificial intelligence and data mining, preparing graduates for high-demand tech careers. Admission requires a bachelor's degree in a related field with a 3.0 GPA and specific prerequisites, but no GRE is needed. The program blends asynchronous and live classes, making it accessible from anywhere with rolling admissions.

• 33-credit program
• Completed in 21 months
• Fully online format
• Machine Learning concentration
• No GRE required
• 3.0 GPA requirement
• Related bachelor's degree needed
• Blend of async and live classes
• Covers AI, data mining
• Prepares for tech careers

#2

Oklahoma City University

Oklahoma City, OK - Private 4-year - okcu.edu

Master's - Master of Science: Applied Artificial Intelligence & Machine Learning

Campus Based - Visit Website

Oklahoma City University's Master of Science in Applied Artificial Intelligence & Machine Learning is a STEM-designated program emphasizing deep learning and its business applications. Students engage with neural networks and generative AI through hands-on projects, preparing for leadership roles in tech. Admission requires a math or engineering undergraduate degree. No entrance exam is mentioned, but applicants should verify requirements. The program is campus-based and AACSB accredited, starting Fall 2025.

• STEM-designated program.
• Focus on deep learning.
• Hands-on projects included.
• Covers generative AI.
• Requires math/engineering degree.
• Prepares for tech careers.
• Business applications focus.
• AACSB accredited school.
• Fall 2025 start.
• Emphasizes practical implementation.

Master's - Master of Science in Computer Science: Data Science (Machine Learning & Artificial Intelligence) (Machine Learning & Artificial Intelligence)

Campus Based - Visit Website

Oklahoma City University's Master of Science in Computer Science: Data Science with a concentration in Machine Learning & Artificial Intelligence focuses on Python, R, statistical analysis, and model construction. This STEM program blends theory with practical experience for careers in data science and AI. Admission requires a bachelor's degree with a 3.0 GPA, a personal statement, and a recommendation letter; no entrance exam is specified, but check for updates. It is a 33-credit hour campus program.

• STEM-designated program.
• Focus on Machine Learning & AI.
• Hands-on model construction.
• Python and R programming.
• 33 credit hours.
• Campus-based learning.
• Bachelor's degree required.
• 3.0 GPA admission threshold.
• Personal statement needed.
• One recommendation letter.

Show 1 More Programs ˅

*U.S. Department of Education, IPEDS 2024, National Center for Education Statistics.

How to Choose the Right School for You

This analysis of Oklahoma’s 2 machine learning programs examines the contrast between accessible public education and specialized private training, helping you navigate options in this emerging tech market.

Key Decision Factors

Program Focus & Industry Alignment

• University of Oklahoma: Traditional computer science approach with online flexibility
• Oklahoma City University: Applied AI focus with hands-on business applications

Format & Accessibility

• Online vs Campus: OU offers fully online format while OCU requires campus attendance
• Timeline: Both programs designed for approximately 21-month completion
• Entry Requirements: Both eliminate GRE requirements for accessibility

Cost Analysis & Value Proposition

Significant Cost Advantage

• University of Oklahoma: $7,300-$10,900 (in-state), $20,300-$30,400 (out-of-state)
• Oklahoma City University: $10,700-$16,100 (competitive private pricing)

Value Analysis

• OU: Exceptional value for fully online public education with strong flexibility
• OCU: Reasonable private tuition with STEM designation and hands-on focus
• Both programs offer strong ROI in Oklahoma’s growing tech market

Program Structure & Requirements

University of Oklahoma (Online Flexibility)

• Credits: 33-credit program structure
• Duration: Completable in 21 months
• Format: Fully online with blend of asynchronous and live classes
• Prerequisites: Bachelor’s degree in related field, 3.0 GPA minimum
• Admission: No GRE required for accessibility
• Focus: Traditional CS with ML concentration, AI, and data mining

Oklahoma City University (Applied Focus)

• Structure: STEM-designated campus-based program
• Focus: Applied AI and ML with deep learning emphasis
• Curriculum: Neural networks, generative AI, large language models
• Prerequisites: Math or engineering background preferred
• Experience: Hands-on projects solving real-world business problems
• Timeline: Fall 2025 start with practical implementation emphasis

Specialized Focus Areas

Traditional ML Foundation (University of Oklahoma)

• Computer Science Depth: Comprehensive CS theoretical foundations
• Data Mining: Advanced data extraction and analysis techniques
• Artificial Intelligence: Broad AI applications and methodologies
• Industry Versatility: Preparation for diverse ML career paths
• Online Accessibility: Serves working professionals statewide

Applied Business AI (Oklahoma City University)

• Deep Learning Specialization: Focus on neural networks and advanced architectures
• Generative AI: Current technologies like large language models
• Business Applications: Real-world problem-solving approach
• Hands-On Projects: Practical implementation experience
• STEM Designation: Benefits for international students and career advancement

Oklahoma Industry Connections

Energy Sector Opportunities

• Oil & Gas Analytics: Predictive maintenance, exploration data analysis
• Renewable Energy: Wind power forecasting, grid optimization
• Energy Trading: Algorithmic trading and market analysis
• Corporate Headquarters: Devon Energy, Chesapeake Energy AI initiatives

Emerging Tech Sectors

• Agriculture Technology: Precision farming, crop yield prediction
• Aerospace: Tinker Air Force Base defense contractor opportunities
• Healthcare: Oklahoma medical centers adopting AI technologies
• Financial Services: Regional banking and insurance AI applications

Decision Framework

For Working Professionals

Top Choice: University of Oklahoma

• Fully online format accommodates full-time work schedules
• Blend of asynchronous and live classes provides flexibility
• No GRE requirement for quick admission process
• 21-month completion timeline manageable with career demands
• Strong value at $7,300-$10,900 in-state tuition

For Hands-On Learning

Top Choice: Oklahoma City University

• Campus-based format ensures direct faculty interaction
• Hands-on projects provide practical implementation experience
• Focus on current technologies like generative AI and LLMs
• STEM designation benefits international students
• Small private school environment with personalized attention

For Budget Optimization

Clear Winner: University of Oklahoma

• Lowest cost option with quality public education
• Online format eliminates relocation and housing costs
• In-state tuition provides exceptional value
• No additional fees for online delivery format

for Career Changers

Better Option: Oklahoma City University

• Applied focus eases transition from other fields
• Hands-on projects build practical portfolio
• Business applications relevant across industries
• Campus environment provides support network
• Math/engineering background preference but not absolute requirement

Technology Focus & Career Preparation

Current Technology Integration

• University of Oklahoma: Traditional ML algorithms, data mining, AI foundations
• Oklahoma City University: Cutting-edge generative AI, neural networks, LLMs
• Both programs emphasize practical implementation and real-world applications

Career Readiness

• Programming Skills: Both programs develop Python, R, and relevant frameworks
• Industry Applications: Energy, agriculture, healthcare, and business analytics
• Portfolio Development: Project-based learning creates demonstrable skills
• Professional Network: Access to Oklahoma’s growing tech community

Red Flags & Considerations

Limited Program Options

Oklahoma’s small number of ML programs means less specialization choice compared to major tech states.

Regional Market Focus

Programs primarily serve regional industry needs, which may limit exposure to coastal tech innovations.

Newer Programs

Both programs appear relatively new, so track records and alumni networks may be limited.

Unique Oklahoma Advantages

University of Oklahoma

• Flagship state university reputation and resources
• Fully online format serves entire state population
• Strong value proposition with quality education
• Established computer science department foundation

Oklahoma City University

• STEM designation provides career and visa benefits
• Focus on current AI technologies and applications
• Small class sizes with personalized faculty attention
• Hands-on approach builds practical skills quickly

Final Recommendation

For Maximum Flexibility: Choose University of Oklahoma for online convenience and exceptional value.

for Hands-On Experience: Select Oklahoma City University for practical AI training and current technology focus.

For Budget Consciousness: University of Oklahoma provides quality education at lowest cost.

For Industry Readiness: Oklahoma City University’s applied approach and hands-on projects offer faster job preparation.

Oklahoma’s machine learning programs provide solid foundational education with strong value propositions. The state’s growing tech sector, energy industry transformation, and lower cost of living create attractive opportunities for ML graduates. Both programs eliminate GRE requirements and offer reasonable completion timelines, making advanced education accessible to working professionals and career changers. Choose based on your learning preferences, budget constraints, and desired level of hands-on experience.

Who’s Hiring Machine Learning Engineers in Oklahoma

Oklahoma’s emerging tech ecosystem offers diverse opportunities for machine learning professionals, from autonomous vehicle development to global consulting and social media platforms. The state provides competitive compensation across traditional industries, cutting-edge AI research, and major technology companies.

Autonomous Vehicle and Technology Giants ($134K-$208K)

General Motors leads compensation at $134,000-$205,000 for Senior Machine Learning Engineers working on autonomous vehicle simulation in Oklahoma City. This remote role focuses on the Smart Agents group, developing ML/AI models that control other characters in autonomous vehicle training simulations. The position requires 4+ years of robotics or latency-sensitive backend experience, expertise in TensorFlow or PyTorch, and strong C++/Python skills. Candidates work on generative AI models (GPT) and reinforcement learning policies for testing and training AV driving systems.

Meta (Facebook) offers $70.67/hour to $208,000/year plus bonus, equity, and benefits for Software Engineers specializing in Machine Learning. This role requires 6+ years of software engineering experience (3+ with PhD) and 2+ years in machine learning, recommendation systems, or AI. The position involves developing highly scalable classifiers, adapting ML methods for parallel environments, and working on massive social data and prediction problems. Meta emphasizes full ML lifecycle ownership and cross-functional team leadership.

Consulting and Professional Services ($105K-$228K)

EY (Ernst & Young) provides two distinct opportunities: Senior Consultant positions at $105,800-$174,800 (up to $198,600 in high-cost areas) for candidates with 3-6 years of AI/ML experience, and Manager roles at $124,300-$227,900 (up to $259,000 in premium markets) requiring 6-10 years of experience with 2-4 years managing technical teams. Both positions emphasize Python proficiency, generative AI frameworks (OpenAI, LlamaIndex, LangChain), and extensive client interaction. The Manager role specifically targets telecommunications, media, and technology (TMT) sectors with expertise in 5G/LTE protocols and network optimization.

Remote and Contract Opportunities ($70/hour)

G2i Inc. offers $70/hour for remote Software Engineers specializing in AI code evaluation and training. This flexible contract position (15-40 hours weekly) requires 4+ years of Python experience and focuses on training large language models through code review, ranking, and RLHF (Reinforcement Learning with Human Feedback) pipelines. The role emphasizes constraint programming experience as a bonus and requires extreme attention to detail for explaining code quality differences.

Entry-Level and Career Development Opportunities

SynergisticIT in Enid provides entry-level Machine Learning Engineer positions for recent graduates, requiring bachelor’s degrees in Computer Science, Engineering, Mathematics, or Statistics. The company emphasizes project work experience and offers pathways for candidates with various visa statuses. Technical requirements include Java, Python, JavaScript knowledge, with preferred skills in Databricks, Snowflake, Tableau, and PowerBI. They focus on bridging the skills gap between employer requirements and graduate capabilities.

Sequoyah Technologies in Tulsa seeks Machine Learning Engineers for MLOps roles, requiring Python expertise, machine learning experience, and knowledge of TensorFlow and AWS. This position emphasizes close collaboration with data scientists and data engineers in operationalizing ML models, focusing on version control, CI/CD best practices, and cross-functional team collaboration.

Traditional Industry Integration

Inceed in Oklahoma City offers $83,000-$103,000 for Mechanical Engineer III positions that increasingly incorporate ML applications in industrial thermal systems. While not purely machine learning roles, these positions demonstrate Oklahoma’s traditional industries integrating AI technologies for combustion system optimization, burner management, and process controls.

Robotics Technology LLC seeks Machine Learning Engineers with QA experience, requiring bachelor’s or master’s degrees in Computer Science, Engineering, or Mathematics. The role emphasizes building and deploying various ML models (supervised, unsupervised, reinforcement learning) with strong programming skills in Python or R, and experience with cloud platforms (AWS, GCP, Azure) and containerization technologies.

Common Requirements Across Oklahoma Employers

Technical Skills: Python programming dominates all job postings, with TensorFlow and PyTorch being the most requested frameworks. Cloud platform experience (AWS, GCP, Azure) appears across multiple positions, while autonomous vehicle roles emphasize C++ and embedded systems knowledge.

Experience Levels: Entry-level positions welcome recent graduates with project experience, while senior roles require 4-6+ years of specialized experience. Consulting positions particularly value client-facing skills and cross-functional collaboration abilities.

Industry Specialization: Oklahoma’s energy heritage creates opportunities for ML applications in traditional industries, while the state’s growing tech presence attracts major companies like GM and Meta. Consulting firms leverage the state’s central location for nationwide client service.

Remote Work Flexibility: Many positions offer remote work options, with companies like GM, Meta, and G2i providing fully remote opportunities. This flexibility allows Oklahoma-based professionals to access opportunities typically concentrated in major tech hubs.

Soft Skills: All employers emphasize communication abilities, particularly the capacity to explain complex technical concepts to non-technical stakeholders. Leadership potential and mentoring capabilities are valued, especially in consulting and senior engineering roles.

Travel Requirements: Several positions mention travel obligations, particularly EY’s consulting roles and GM’s autonomous vehicle work, reflecting Oklahoma’s strategic location for serving clients across multiple regions.

Oklahoma’s machine learning job market reflects the state’s economic diversification, combining traditional energy and manufacturing expertise with emerging technology applications. The salary ranges demonstrate competitive compensation for ML professionals, particularly when combined with the state’s lower cost of living. Companies leverage Oklahoma’s central location and growing tech talent pool to serve national and international markets while offering professionals opportunities to work on cutting-edge AI applications across diverse industries.