University of South Florida MS in Artificial Intelligence

The University of South Florida offers a 31-credit Master of Science in Artificial Intelligence through the Bellini College of Artificial Intelligence, Cybersecurity and Computing. The program can be completed in about two years and is available in online and in-person formats. It welcomes applicants with and without a computer science background and includes substantial coursework in machine learning, deep learning, natural language processing, computer vision, and other AI fields.

Quick Facts

SchoolUniversity of South Florida
LocationTampa, Florida
DegreeMaster of Science in Artificial Intelligence
Credits31 credits
FormatOnline or Campus
Estimated TuitionAbout $13,343 Florida resident / $30,823 nonresident
LengthAbout 2 years
AI / ML FocusArtificial intelligence, machine learning, deep learning, NLP, computer vision, robotics

Curriculum

USF built the MSAI around foundational computing and applied artificial intelligence. Students without a computer science background complete computing essentials courses before moving deeper into AI. Students who already have a CS background can replace some of those foundation requirements with focused electives.

Core and foundation coursework includes Introduction to Artificial Intelligence, Mathematics for Artificial Intelligence, Ethical Issues in Artificial Intelligence, AI Applications, programming, algorithms, data structures, and discrete structures. The exact foundation sequence depends on the student’s prior computing background.

AI electives include courses such as Data Mining, Deep Learning, Natural Language Processing, Computer Vision, Autonomous Mobile Robots, Trustworthy AI Systems, Advanced Robotic Systems, and Robot Intelligence and Computer Vision. Special topics may cover security and privacy in machine learning, hardware accelerators for ML, social network analysis, NLP, and smart and connected health.

Credits and Program Length

The MS in Artificial Intelligence requires 31 credit hours. USF states that students can complete the program in two years. Elective work begins later in the program and includes both broadening and deepening options so students can build expertise around their goals.

Tuition and Cost

For Fall 2026 through Summer 2027, USF lists standard graduate tuition and required per-credit fees at $430.43 per credit for Florida residents and $994.29 per credit for non-Florida residents. At 31 credits, that produces an estimated program tuition and per-credit fee total of $13,343 for Florida residents and $30,823 for nonresidents.

USF also assesses flat student fees of $37 per term. These estimates do not include those term-based fees, books, living expenses, or other individual charges. Tuition rates can change. Students should confirm their rate with USF Student Accounting Services before enrolling.

Admissions

The program accepts students from both computing and non-computing backgrounds. Applicants need evidence of mathematics, problem-solving, and quantitative reasoning ability. The GRE is not required. USF’s 2026 program brochure lists unofficial transcripts, a statement of purpose, a resume or CV, and three letters of recommendation among the application materials. English proficiency documentation is required when applicable.

The 2026 brochure lists June 1 as the application deadline for fall entry and October 15 for spring entry. Applicants should verify current deadlines and requirements with the official USF MSAI program page.

Machine Learning and AI Focus

This program is a strong fit for MastersInMachineLearning.org because machine learning is a central part of the degree rather than a single elective. USF identifies research and coursework in machine learning, neural networks, deep learning, natural language processing, computer vision, robotics, autonomous systems, knowledge representation, and trustworthy AI.

Students can also work around AI applications in healthcare, finance, education, marketing, and other industries. USF reports research groups spanning AI and cognitive computing, cybersecurity, computing hardware and sensors, human-centered computing, and networks and systems.

Online or Campus Format

USF offers the MSAI in both in-person and online formats. The university notes that online classes may be delivered live at scheduled times or asynchronously, depending on the course and instructor. Students who need a fully asynchronous schedule should check individual course delivery before registering.

Who Is This Program Best For?

USF’s MSAI is a good option for students who want a dedicated artificial intelligence degree with direct access to machine learning coursework. It also stands out for applicants moving into AI from another quantitative field because USF provides a foundation path for students without a prior computer science degree. Florida residents receive a major tuition advantage under the university’s published graduate rates.

Bottom Line

The University of South Florida offers a focused 31-credit AI master’s degree with online and campus options, a stated two-year completion time, and strong coverage of machine learning, deep learning, NLP, computer vision, and robotics. Based on 2026-27 published rates, estimated tuition is about $13,343 for Florida residents before term-based flat fees, making the program especially attractive for in-state students.