Program Overview

TXST’s master of science in artificial intelligence offers an innovative curriculum that prepares graduates for high-impact roles in the fast-growing field of AI. The program provides in-depth knowledge of generative AI, machine learning, data analytics and ethical AI applications, blending foundational theory with advanced, hands-on experience.

Students learn from dedicated faculty who are active researchers and industry collaborators while gaining access to state-of-the-art facilities, including a multi-GPU server for high-performance computing. Located in the Austin-San Marcos innovation corridor, the program connects students to a thriving tech ecosystem, providing exceptional opportunities for internships, research and career advancement.

Course Work

The master of science in artificial intelligence program offers a 30-credit-hour curriculum designed to equip students with advanced knowledge and practical skills for success in the AI job market. The non-thesis option includes a combination of graduate core courses and specialized AI electives. Students interested in pursuing research or a doctoral degree may choose the thesis option. Areas of study include machine learning, generative AI, robotics, deep learning, natural language processing, computer vision, and ethical AI applications.

DegreeConcentrationHoursThesis OptionLocation
Degree
M.S.
Concentration
Artificial Intelligence
Hours
30
Thesis Option
Non-thesis
Location
San Marcos
Degree
M.S.
Concentration
Artificial Intelligence
Hours
30
Thesis Option
Thesis
Location
San Marcos

What Experts Say

“The master's in artificial intelligence degree is a great addition to the degrees offered by Texas State University. Once again, the computer science department demonstrates its commitment to teaching relevant, leading-edge skills to graduate students so they can pursue outstanding careers in industry.ˮ

— Herschel Koska, Chair of CS Industrial Advisory Board

Program Details

The master of science in artificial intelligence is designed to be accessible to students from a variety of academic and professional backgrounds. For those without a computer science degree, the program’s unique Pathways Program provides the foundational skills needed to succeed. To support working professionals, flexible course options allow students to balance their studies with their careers while advancing their expertise in the rapidly growing field of AI.

Program Mission

The educational objectives of this program include:

  • preparing students with advanced knowledge in AI theory and applications for leadership roles in industry and research
  • developing students' skills in designing, implementing, and evaluating complex AI systems to solve real-world problems
  • fostering a deep understanding of the ethical and societal implications of AI technology to ensure responsible innovation

Career Options

Emphasizing theory, research, and practical skills, the program prepares students for a wide range of careers in the rapidly growing AI industry. Graduates are in high demand for roles such as AI scientist, machine learning engineer, AI software developer, data scientist, NLP engineer, computer vision engineer, and AI research scientist. Career opportunities include large tech companies like Google, Amazon, and Dell, as well as innovative startups, government agencies, and research institutions.

Program Faculty

The program faculty are accomplished researchers and dedicated educators with expertise across the AI spectrum. Key research areas include:

  • Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning
  • Generative AI and Deep Learning
  • Ethical and Responsible AI
  • Computer Vision and Image Processing
  • Natural Language Processing (NLP)
  • Robotics and Autonomous Systems
  • Data Science and Engineering
  • High Performance Computing

Our faculty publish in top-tier journals and conferences and have received prestigious funding from federal agencies (NSF, DOD, DOE) and industry leaders.

Contact us for general questions about your application, funding opportunities, and more. If you have specific questions after reviewing the program details, contact the program's graduate advisor.

Application Deadlines

DEADLINESU.S. CITIZEN INTERNATIONAL
Fall - PriorityFebruary 1February 1
Fall - StandardAugust 1June 1
Spring - PrioritySeptember 1September 1
Spring - StandardNovember 1October 1

For important information regarding deadlines and decision timelines, review the Application Policy Information page.

Admission Requirements

The items required for admission consideration are listed below. Additional information for applicants with international credentials can be found on our international webpages.

  •   Review important information about the online application.

    • $55 nonrefundable application fee, OR
    • $90 nonrefundable application fee for applications with international credentials

    Review important information about application fees.

    • Baccalaureate degree from a regionally accredited university. (Non-U.S. degrees must be equivalent to a four-year U.S. Bachelor’s degree. In most cases, three-year degrees are not considered. Visit our International FAQs for more information.)*
    • A copy of an official transcript from each institution where course credit was granted.
    • A 2.75 overall GPA or a 2.75 GPA in the last 60 hours of undergraduate course work (plus any completed graduate courses).

    *The Pathways Program is designed for highly motivated applicants from backgrounds other than computer science. It provides the essential foundational knowledge in programming, data science, and algorithm design required for success in our rigorous graduate curriculum. Before beginning graduate coursework, Pathways students must complete the following four undergraduate courses with a grade of "C" or better: CS 5301, CS 2325, CS 3358, CS 3360, and CS 4379G.

    Review important information about transcripts. Official transcripts, sent directly from your institution, will be required if admission is granted.

  • GRE

    • Official GRE (general test only) with competitive scores in the verbal reasoning and quantitative reasoning sections.
      • The GRE may be waived if the student holds a master's or doctoral degree from a regionally accredited U.S. institution.
      • If the student holds a master's or doctoral degree (or the equivalent thereof) from an accredited international institution, the GRE may be waived on an individual basis.

    Approved English Proficiency Exam Scores

    Applicants are required to submit an approved English proficiency exam score that meets the minimum program requirements below unless they have earned a bachelor’s degree or higher from a regionally accredited U.S. institution or the equivalent from a country on our exempt countries list.

    • official TOEFL iBT scores required with a 78 overall 
    • official PTE scores required with a 52 overall
    • official IELTS (academic) scores required with a 6.5 overall and
      • minimum individual module scores of 6.0
    • official Duolingo scores required with a 110 overall
    • official TOEFL Essentials scores required with an 8.5 overall

    This program does not offer admission if the scores above are not met.
    Review important information about official test scores.

    • resume/CV
    • statement of purpose
    • three letters of recommendation

    Students admitted to the program will participate in a diagnostic interview with the graduate advisor. This interview will include a review of test scores, grades, and work history. In some cases, additional courses may be added to the degree program.

    Review important information about documents.

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