AI Bachelor’s Degrees Online

Programming & Development

Mastering programming languages like Python, Java, C++, and R is essential for aspiring AI professionals. Integrated Development Environments (IDEs) like PyCharm, Eclipse, and RStudio enhance the coding experience and help debug and test code efficiently.

Machine Learning

Machine learning (ML) algorithms form the backbone of predictive modeling and data analysis in AI. TensorFlow, Keras, Amazon SageMaker, and PyTorch are among the leading platforms for building and training machine learning models. SciKit-Learn provides various easy-to-use machine learning tools for data mining and analysis.

Mathematics

An AI bachelor’s should include math coursework in calculus, linear algebra, probability, and statistics, as these are key to algorithm development in AI. Tools like MATLAB or Mathematica are widely used for their powerful computation capabilities to model and solve complex problems.

Data Structures and Algorithms

Proficiency in data structures and algorithms is necessary to manage and process data efficiently. Python, Java, and C++ come with extensive libraries that offer standardized implementations of these fundamental concepts.

Data Analysis and Visualization

The ability to preprocess, analyze, and visualize findings is crucial for interpreting complex datasets. Pandas and NumPy are indispensable Python libraries for data manipulation and numerical computations. Matplotlib, Seaborn, and Plotly are used to create static, animated, and interactive visualizations.

Neural Networks and Deep Learning

Understanding neural network architectures and how to train them is vital for advanced AI tasks. Frameworks like TensorFlow and Keras simplify the process of building and training complex neural networks, and PyTorch is valued for its flexibility and dynamic computational graph.

Prompt Engineering

AI prompt engineering is the strategic crafting of instructions - a.k.a. prompts - for large language models such as ChatGPT. Strong prompts leverage the LLM's capabilities to shape responses that align with specific tasks with precision and efficiency.

Natural Language Processing (NLP)

NLP skills are essential for creating systems that can understand and generate human language in AI. The Natural Language Toolkit (NLTK) and spaCy provide comprehensive libraries for Python programmers to work on linguistic data, and models like GPT and BERT represent the cutting edge of NLP capabilities.

Robotics

A solid AI bachelor’s should provide a foundational understanding of robotics, which is useful in designing and programming automated systems. The Robot Operating System (ROS) is a flexible framework for writing robot software, and simulation tools like Gazebo provide a realistic testing environment for robots without physical hardware.

Computer Vision

Computer vision allows machines to derive meaningful information from visual inputs like images and videos. OpenCV is a foundational tool for image processing tasks, while TensorFlow and PyTorch offer specialized libraries for implementing more complex computer vision algorithms in neural networks.

AI Ethics and Philosophy

Grasping AI's ethical and philosophical considerations ensures the responsible design and implementation of this burgeoning technology. While this part of the AI bachelor’s degree curriculum is less platform-centric, engaging with online ethical frameworks, databases, and forums keeps students informed about the myriad ethical debates in AI.

1. Maryville University

Maryville University’s Online Bachelor’s in Computer Science with an AI Specialization is a high-quality, flexible program with a world-class curriculum. Building on core CS topics in computer programming, software engineering, cloud computing, and data management, students specializing in artificial intelligence take valuable courses in Python development, machine learning, deep learning, robotics, computer vision, natural language processing, reinforcement learning, and AI ethics. Students who meet the prerequisites can take the specialty courses as a standalone 18-credit AI certificate for added value and flexibility.

• Format: Online
• Cost: Bachelor’s Degree: $67,200 (128 credits @ $525 each) | AI Certificate: $9,450 (18 credits @ $525)
• Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission

2. Colorado State University - Global Campus

CSU Global offers an Undergraduate Specialization In Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Robotics, which can be applied to its online bachelor’s degrees in computer science, information technology, and management information systems. This specialization teaches students to understand AI search methods, handle probabilistic uncertainty, deconstruct images for analysis, control robotic systems, and model environmental influences on robot navigation. Topics range from AI fundamentals to complex machine learning and computer vision subjects.

• Format: Online
• Cost: $42,000 (120 credits @ $350 per credit)
• Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission

3. Strayer University

Strayer University’s B.S. in IT with an Artificial Intelligence Concentration provides a robust education in AI principles and practical application. The curriculum features coursework in Python AI development, prompt engineering, neural networks, computer vision, natural language processing, and AI's ethical and societal implications. Program features include career services, a veteran support hub, a free laptop computer, and access to the school’s graduation fund (where for every three classes you pass, the 4th class is tuition-free).

• Format: Online or On-Campus (Multiple States)
• Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)

4. Davenport University

Davenport University’s Online B.S. in Computer Science with the Artificial Intelligence Specialty features a well-designed core curriculum and hands-on training in sought-after AI domains such as deep learning, computer vision, and advanced mathematics. Students can take this program in an accelerated learning format to save time and money while benefiting from small class sizes, personalized career coaching, and the school’s employment guarantee.

• Format: Online or On-Campus (MI)
• Cost: $75,240 (120 credits @ $627 per credit)
• Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission

5. Capella University

Capella University’s B.S. in IT with a Data Analytics & AI Specialization merges two of today’s hottest disciplines: data science and artificial intelligence. Students learn to manipulate, analyze, and present data in a cloud-based environment while using the power of AI to maximize efficacy and unlock new business opportunities. Qualifying bachelor’s students can apply up to 135 transfer credits from prior education and certifications to the 180 credits to complete this program, drastically reducing the cost and duration.

• Format: Online
• Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission