Drexel University MS in Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning

Drexel University offers a dedicated MS in Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning through the School of Computer and Information Sciences. The 45-credit degree is available fully online or on campus and combines technical AI foundations with applied coursework, electives, and a two-course capstone.

Quick Facts

FactDetails
SchoolDrexel University
LocationPhiladelphia, Pennsylvania
DegreeMS in Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning
Credits45 quarter credits; 46 with the optional on-campus co-op course
FormatOnline or campus
ConcentrationsApplied; Computational
LengthAbout 2 years
Online tuition$1,400 per quarter credit for 2026-27
Estimated online tuition$63,000 for 45 credits, plus fees

Program Overview

Drexel’s program focuses on mathematical foundations, algorithms, tools, and practical AI and machine learning applications. Students work with real datasets and complete coursework across data science, computation, AI systems, and responsible technology.

Curriculum

The 45-credit plan includes 9 credits of concentration core courses, 15 credits of major-specific electives, 15 credits of flexible electives, and a 6-credit capstone sequence.

Applied Concentration

The applied concentration is the more accessible option for students who want to use AI and machine learning in practical settings. Core choices include Programming Foundations, Applications of Machine Learning, and Applied Artificial Intelligence.

  • Applied Machine Learning for Data Science
  • Recommender Systems
  • Natural Language Processing with Deep Learning
  • Explainable Artificial Intelligence
  • Human-Artificial Intelligence Interaction

Computational Concentration

The computational concentration places more weight on computer science theory and technical model development. Its core includes Introduction to Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, and Deep Learning.

  • Introduction to Computer Vision
  • Responsible Machine Learning
  • Advanced Artificial Intelligence
  • Robust Deep Learning
  • Cognitive Systems
  • Natural Language Processing with Deep Learning

Credits and Program Length

Students complete 45 quarter credits without co-op. Full-time on-campus students who choose the graduate co-op complete 46 credits, including a one-credit professional development course. Drexel lists two years as the average online duration. The catalog also presents a two-year part-time plan and a two-year full-time plan with co-op.

Tuition and Cost

For 2026-27, Drexel lists online tuition at $1,400 per quarter credit. The estimated tuition for the 45-credit degree is $63,000. A 46-credit plan would cost about $64,400 at the same rate.

These estimates do not include the $125 annual online graduate program fee, books, or future tuition increases. Drexel offers special online tuition rates for eligible alumni, military members, and partner-organization employees.

Admissions

Applicants to the applied concentration need a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution. The computational concentration expects a bachelor’s or master’s degree in computer science, software engineering, or a related STEM field, plus suitable computing preparation or experience. Drexel lists a 3.0 GPA standard.

  • Completed application
  • Official transcripts
  • Resume
  • Statement of purpose of about 500 words
  • One recommendation required; two suggested

GRE scores are not required. Drexel recommends them for international applicants and domestic applicants whose undergraduate GPA is below 3.0.

Online, Campus, and Co-op Options

Students can complete the degree fully online or on campus in Philadelphia. The six-month graduate co-op is available only to full-time, on-campus students. Online students receive the same concentration choices and complete the program through Drexel’s 10-week quarter terms.

Drexel plans to move to semesters in fall 2027, so students starting then should confirm the revised credit plan.

Machine Learning and AI Focus

This is a direct AI and machine learning degree, not a broad computer science program with a small AI elective set. Both concentrations include focused AI or ML core courses. Students can also study deep learning, computer vision, natural language processing, explainable AI, responsible ML, recommender systems, and applied ML engineering.

Capstone

All students complete Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning Capstone I and Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning Capstone II. The sequence applies program knowledge to a real-world or research problem and gives students a substantial final project.

Who Is This Program Best For?

Drexel may fit working professionals who need a fully online AI degree, Philadelphia-area students who want campus study and possible co-op experience, and students who want a choice between applied and computational study. The computational concentration fits applicants with stronger computer science preparation. The applied concentration offers a clearer route for students from a wider range of academic backgrounds.

Bottom Line

Drexel offers a focused and flexible AI and machine learning master’s with two concentration paths, a capstone, and online or campus study. The main tradeoff is cost: estimated online tuition is $63,000 before fees for the 45-credit plan.

Official Program Sources