Washington has two current master’s options on this site with direct artificial intelligence and machine learning content. Both programs are based in Seattle and support online study, but they serve different academic and career goals.
The Seattle University MS in Artificial Intelligence provides a fixed, dedicated AI curriculum. The University of Washington MS in AI & Machine Learning for Engineering uses a stackable model that pairs core AI and ML study with an engineering specialization.
Washington AI and Machine Learning Master’s Programs
| School | Degree | Format | Credits | Estimated Tuition | Length |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Seattle University | MS in Artificial Intelligence | Online, asynchronous | 49 quarter credits | $52,577 before fees | 2 years |
| University of Washington | MS in AI & Machine Learning for Engineering | Online; some campus or hybrid options | 39–42 quarter credits | $40,375–$43,088 | 2–4 years |
Tuition figures are estimates based on each university’s published rates or program estimate. Mandatory fees and future tuition increases can raise the final cost.
Best Washington Program by Goal
- Dedicated artificial intelligence curriculum: Seattle University requires machine learning, advanced machine learning, AI systems, generative AI, governance, ethics, and a multi-quarter capstone.
- AI and machine learning for engineering: University of Washington combines a required AI/ML certificate with a specialization in areas such as controls, systems operations, materials, modern AI methods, or human-centered AI.
- Lower estimated tuition: UW lists an estimated total of $40,375–$43,088, compared with Seattle University’s estimated $52,577 before mandatory fees.
- Fixed two-year online plan: Seattle University follows a 49-quarter-credit, six-quarter sequence that is online and asynchronous.
- Part-time flexibility: UW allows a two-to-four-year path and offers a fully online route through compatible certificate combinations.
How the Programs Differ
Seattle University: Broad AI Training
Seattle University offers the more unified AI degree. All students complete a common curriculum that moves from artificial intelligence and machine learning into advanced machine learning, big data systems, AI systems, and generative AI. Students also study governance and ethics and choose between computer vision and natural language processing.
The program suits students who want a direct AI credential without building a degree from separate certificates. Its asynchronous format and fixed two-year schedule make planning simple. A three-quarter industry capstone gives students time to develop an applied team project.
University of Washington: Engineering Applications
UW offers the more specialized engineering route. Students complete 16 credits in AI and machine learning for engineering, add an approved discipline-specific certificate, and finish an eight-credit capstone. The core covers machine learning foundations, data-driven optimization, physics-informed machine learning, neural networks, reinforcement learning, and responsible AI.
This program fits engineers who want to apply machine learning to robotics, controls, manufacturing, operations, materials, or other physical systems. The stackable format provides more choice, but the selected certificate affects the total credits, price, delivery format, and completion time.
Tuition and Program Length
UW is the lower-cost option based on current published estimates. Its program costs approximately $40,375–$43,088 for 39–42 quarter credits. The range reflects differences among the second-certificate options. Students should also plan for quarterly fees and possible tuition increases during a multi-year schedule.
Seattle University publishes a rate of $1,073 per quarter credit for 2026–27. At 49 required credits, estimated tuition is $52,577 before mandatory fees. The standard plan takes six quarters, or two years. Seattle University plans to convert graduate programs from quarters to semesters in summer 2027, so future students should confirm how that change affects credits and pricing.
Online and Campus Options
Seattle University classifies its MS in Artificial Intelligence as fully online and asynchronous. Students do not need to attend scheduled campus classes, and the program begins in September.
UW supports a fully online route for part-time students who select compatible certificates. Its required AI/ML certificate is mostly asynchronous. Some specialization options are campus based, while others are offered online or in more than one format. Students should verify the format of their intended certificate before applying.
Admissions and Academic Preparation
Both programs expect quantitative and programming preparation, but UW lists a deeper engineering foundation.
- Seattle University: Applicants should have prior work in probability and statistics, Python programming, and integral calculus. Most applicants do not need the GRE.
- University of Washington: Applicants need calculus, differential equations, linear algebra, physics, and programming experience. UW requires a minimum 3.0 GPA and does not require the GRE.
Seattle University may fit career changers who can complete a short list of prerequisites. UW is a stronger match for applicants who already hold an engineering, physics, chemistry, computing, or related quantitative background.
Choosing Between the Two Programs
Choose Seattle University if you want a dedicated AI degree, a fixed asynchronous schedule, required work in generative AI and responsible AI, and a long industry capstone. Choose UW if you want to connect machine learning with a specific engineering field, prefer a stackable program, or want the lower current tuition estimate.
Neither program is a low-cost option. Students who can study outside Washington may also want to compare the site’s online machine learning master’s programs and artificial intelligence master’s programs.
Bottom Line
Washington’s two profiled programs cover distinct needs. Seattle University provides a broad, dedicated AI curriculum in a predictable two-year online format. The University of Washington provides a flexible engineering-focused degree with several specialization paths and a lower estimated price. Prospective students should choose based on subject focus first, then compare format, prerequisites, schedule, and total cost.
Related Programs
- Seattle University - Seattle
- University of Washington - Seattle