Western Governors University MS in Computer Science: AI & Machine Learning

Western Governors University offers an online Master of Science in Computer Science with an Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning specialization. The competency-based program requires 31 competency units across 10 courses and covers machine learning, deep learning, natural language processing, advanced AI, algorithms, systems, and governance.

Quick Facts

SchoolWestern Governors University
LocationSalt Lake City, Utah
DegreeM.S. in Computer Science, Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning
Requirements31 competency units; 10 courses
FormatOnline; competency-based
Tuition$4,385 per six-month term through September 30, 2026; $4,625 per term beginning October 1, 2026
Resource fee$200 per six-month term
LengthFlexible; WGU reports 61% of graduates finish similar programs within 20 months
AI/ML focusMachine learning, deep learning, NLP, advanced AI, and ethical AI

Curriculum

The curriculum combines five computer science foundation courses with five courses focused on AI, machine learning, and technology governance. WGU students usually complete one course at a time and advance after demonstrating competency.

Core Computer Science Courses

AI and Machine Learning Specialization Courses

The machine learning course covers supervised and unsupervised methods, model evaluation, cross-validation, hyperparameter tuning, ensemble methods, and Python. Deep Learning covers neural networks, gradient descent, backpropagation, CNNs, and RNNs. Natural Language Processing covers text preprocessing, sentiment analysis, named entity recognition, machine translation, LSTMs, and transformers.

Advanced AI adds meta-learning, zero-shot and few-shot learning, reinforcement learning, probabilistic reasoning, and advanced ensemble methods. The governance course adds risk management and compliance work that supports responsible AI deployment.

Credits and Program Length

The degree requires 31 competency units. WGU treats one competency unit as comparable to one semester credit of learning. Graduate students must enroll in at least eight competency units during each six-month term.

WGU’s published standard path places the program across four six-month terms, or about two years. WGU also reports that 61% of graduates finish similar programs within 20 months. Experienced students may finish faster because WGU allows them to complete additional courses during a term without paying extra tuition.

Tuition and Estimated Cost

For terms that begin through September 30, 2026, tuition is $4,385 per six-month term, plus a $200 e-books and resources fee. WGU has published a higher rate of $4,625 per term beginning October 1, 2026; the $200 resource fee remains listed separately.

At the October 2026 rate, tuition and the resource fee total $4,825 per term. A student who finishes in three terms would pay an estimated $14,475. Four terms would cost an estimated $19,300. These estimates exclude financial aid and any costs that WGU does not include in its published term price.

WGU charges a flat rate per term instead of a price per credit. Students who complete more courses in each term can reduce the total degree cost.

Admissions

Applicants need a bachelor’s degree from a regionally or nationally accredited institution. Applicants with a bachelor’s degree in computer science may enter the graduate program directly. Applicants whose bachelor’s degree is in another field must complete WGU Academy’s Foundations of Computer Science course before enrollment.

WGU does not require GRE or GMAT scores. Applicants must submit transcripts so WGU can verify the bachelor’s degree.

Machine Learning and AI Focus

This is a strong fit for the site because half of the curriculum directly addresses AI, machine learning, deep learning, NLP, or advanced AI. The remaining courses build supporting skills in algorithms, computer architecture, Linux, and risk management.

The AI and machine learning specialization includes preparation for the AWS Certified Machine Learning Engineer – Associate credential. WGU lists the certification as included with the specialization.

Online and Competency-Based Format

The program is fully online and uses independent study with faculty and program mentor support. There are no scheduled campus classes. Students work through assessments when they are ready, which can help experienced professionals move faster through familiar material.

This format requires steady self-direction. WGU states that some students devote about 15 to 20 hours per week, while others need more time depending on prior knowledge and pace.

Thesis or Capstone

The published 31-CU plan does not list a separate thesis or capstone course. Instead, the program uses course-level projects, papers, exams, and other competency assessments. Students who want a traditional research thesis should compare WGU with research-focused computer science programs.

Who Is This Program Best For?

The program may suit working software developers, data professionals, and technical specialists who want a flexible online master’s degree with substantial AI and machine learning coverage. It may also suit students who already know part of the material and can use WGU’s competency model to accelerate.

It may be less suitable for students who want live weekly lectures, a campus research lab, or a faculty-led thesis.

Bottom Line

WGU’s M.S. in Computer Science offers a clear AI and machine learning specialization in a flexible online format. The strongest points are the 31-CU curriculum, direct coverage of machine learning, deep learning, NLP, and advanced AI, and flat-rate tuition that rewards faster completion. Students should budget about $14,475 for three terms or $19,300 for four terms at the October 2026 rate.

Program details: WGU M.S. in Computer Science | AI and Machine Learning program guide | WGU technology tuition