What Is a Master of Engineering With a Concentration in AI and Machine Learning?

Artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) are revolutionizing industries across the globe. These technologies transform how we live and work, from healthcare and finance to transportation and manufacturing. For engineers looking to stay at the forefront of this rapid innovation, earning a Master of Engineering (MEng) with a concentration in AI and Machine Learning can be a game-changing career move.

The Master of Engineering (MEng) with a concentration in AI and Machine Learning is a professional, non-thesis graduate program designed to enhance your technical expertise and leadership capabilities. By focusing on AI and ML, this degree equips you with the skills and knowledge needed to develop intelligent systems, analyze data at scale, and build tools that shape the future of technology.

Why Specialize in AI and ML as an Engineer?

AI and ML are among the most in-demand and fastest-growing areas in technology. Engineers who understand how to design and deploy AI solutions are essential to driving innovation in nearly every sector. Specializing in these fields offers:

• Career growth: The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts a 26% growth in computer and IT occupations from 2023 to 2033.
• High earning potential: Roles in AI and ML frequently command six-figure salaries.
• Diverse applications: Engineers apply AI/ML to everything from self-driving cars to personalized medicine.
• Industry relevance: As AI evolves, engineers with this expertise will be at the center of technological advancement.

What Will You Learn in an AI and ML Master’s Program?

UIC’s online Master of Engineering degree program offers a rigorous curriculum combining technical knowledge and real-world application. Courses cover core concepts in AI and ML, innovation, engineering law, and leadership development, making it one of the top AI degree programs available for aspiring engineers.

Key Skills and Topics You’ll Master: 

• Foundations of AI and ML: Students receive hands-on experience with various AI tools, including search, reinforcement learning, probabilistic models, and game theory. They will also learn to apply ML techniques to real-world applications and evaluate their performance.
• Mathematical and Statistical Methods: Students will receive a refreshed understanding of mathematical and statistical topics relevant to AI, plus a proficiency in Python.
• Natural Language Processing (NLP): Students will develop knowledge in background theory and natural language processing techniques and gain the skills to enable computers to interact with humans using NLP.
• Deep Neural Networks (DNN): Students will learn the application and understanding of DNN in pattern recognition and AI, as well as the ability to classify various types of input data, including images, video, speech, and text.
• Ethics and Legal Aspects: Students will receive an overview of the legal system and its application to engineering, plus receive a familiarity with intellectual property law, contract principles, and environmental law.
• Project Management and Innovation: Students will learn tools and strategies to lead teams and implement AI in industry settings.

What Can You Do with a Master’s in AI and Machine Learning?

A MEng degree with a concentration in AI and Machine Learning can open the door to high-impact, high-paying careers in a wide range of industries. According to Glassdoor, Indeed, and PayScale, roles and salaries within the AI industry for MEng graduates include:

• Natural Language Processing Engineer – $111,000 avg. salary
• Data Scientist – $125,000 avg. salary 
• AI Research Scientist – $130,000 avg. salary 
• AI Product Manager – $135,000 avg. salary 
• Machine Learning Engineer – $160,000 avg. salary 
• Computer Vision Engineer – $135,000 avg. salary 

UIC’s Online MEng Degree: Program Structure and Tuition

UIC’s Master of Engineering with a concentration in AI and Machine Learning is designed for working professionals. Here’s how it’s structured:

• Program Length: Complete the degree in as few as 12 months full-time, or go part-time to fit your schedule.
• Course Format: 100% online, asynchronous, with accelerated 8-week terms.
• Total Courses: 9 courses totaling 36 credit hours.
• Tuition: $32,256 — significantly lower than the average tuition for a master’s degree.

With a flexible format and industry-relevant coursework, UIC’s online MEng degree helps engineers advance their careers without putting their lives on hold.

How to Apply to UIC’s Online Master of Engineering Program

Ready to elevate your engineering career with a focus in AI and ML? UIC’s online MEng program is accepting applications now.

Connect with an enrollment specialist to learn more about application requirements, deadlines, and how this program can help you reach your goals.