Natural language processing (NLP) is a branch of artificial intelligence and machine learning focused on how computers process, analyze, and generate human language. Graduate study can cover language models, text classification, information extraction, embeddings, transformers, speech and language systems, and generative AI.
Our current inventory includes 11 master’s programs classified under nlp. We include programs only when natural language processing has meaningful curriculum support rather than appearing as a single incidental elective.
Natural Language Processing Master’s Programs
| School | Location | Degree | Format | Tuition | Length |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avila University | Goodyear, AZ | MS in Technology Management: Artificial Intelligence | campus | $27,000 | Up to 24 months |
| Boston University MS in Artificial Intelligence | Boston, MA | MS in Artificial Intelligence | Campus | Est. $73,024 | 2–3 semesters |
| DePaul University MS in Artificial Intelligence | Chicago, IL | MS in Artificial Intelligence | Online or Campus | Est. $48,144 | |
| Mercer University MS in Data Science | Atlanta, GA | MS in Data Science | Online | Est. $26,316 | 18–24 months |
| Mercy University MS in Computer Science – Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning | Dobbs Ferry, NY | MS in Computer Science – Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning | Online, Hybrid, or Campus | Est. $41,292 | |
| Northwestern University MS in Machine Learning and Data Science | Evanston, IL | MS in Machine Learning and Data Science | Campus | $23,662 per quarter | 15 months |
| University of Illinois Chicago Master of Engineering in AI and Machine Learning | Chicago, IL | Master of Engineering – AI and Machine Learning | Online | Est. $32,256 | 12 months |
| University of South Florida | Tampa, FL | Master of Science in Artificial Intelligence | Online or Campus | Approx $13.3K resident / $30.8K nonresident | 2 years |
| University of Texas at Dallas | Richardson, TX | MS in Computer Science | Campus | Est. $28,951 resident | 18–24 months |
| Utica University MS in Computer Science – Artificial Intelligence | Utica, NY | MS in Computer Science – Artificial Intelligence | Campus | Est. $24,000 | |
| Western Governors University | Salt Lake City, UT | M.S. in Computer Science, Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning | Online | $4,625 per 6-month term + $200 fee (starting Oct. 2026) | About 20–24 months; competency-based |
What You Study in Natural Language Processing
NLP coursework usually builds on programming, machine learning, probability, statistics, and linear algebra. Advanced topics can include computational linguistics, text mining, language representation, sequence models, attention, transformers, large language models, information retrieval, and natural language generation.
The curriculum varies by program. Some degrees approach NLP through computer science or machine learning. Others place it inside a broader artificial intelligence curriculum alongside deep learning, computer vision, and generative AI.
NLP, Large Language Models, and Generative AI
Modern large language models are closely connected to NLP and deep learning. Students interested in LLMs should look beyond course titles and check whether a program covers neural networks, transformers, language modeling, model evaluation, and practical AI development.
A broad AI degree can provide useful LLM preparation without being an NLP specialization. For this directory, we assign the nlp classification only when the program shows substantial NLP study.
How to Compare NLP Programs
Check NLP depth. Look for multiple courses or required study in natural language processing, language models, computational linguistics, text analytics, or closely related areas.
Review the machine learning foundation. Strong NLP study usually depends on solid coursework in machine learning, deep learning, probability, and optimization.
Look for current methods. Programs that cover transformers, generative models, embeddings, or modern language-model techniques may offer stronger preparation for current NLP work.
Compare cost and format. Review tuition, delivery format, program length, admissions requirements, and the full AI or machine learning curriculum before choosing a degree.
Who Is an NLP-Focused Program Best For?
NLP can fit students who want to build systems that work with text, speech, search, conversational interfaces, language models, or generative AI. Relevant roles can include machine learning engineer, NLP engineer, applied scientist, AI engineer, and data scientist.