University of Bridgeport is proud to offer the only master’s in Artificial Intelligence degree in Connecticut! As the artificial intelligence field grows, more and more students are seeking a higher degree to advance or enter a career in engineering.

When looking at your options for an advanced engineering degree, you may wonder what the difference between a master’s in Artificial Intelligence vs. a master’s in Computer Science is. Below explores some key differences and similarities between the two degrees:

Differences

1. Curriculum

The Artificial Intelligence degree curriculum focuses heavily on robotics, data sciences, computer vision, and cybersecurity. Courses address the role of artificial intelligence in all aspects of our lives, including the medical field and business intelligence. The master’s in Computer Science curriculum focuses instead on programming, algorithms, operating systems, and engineering colloquium. Students learn how to solve technical problems as they arise.

2. Potential careers

Students earning a master’s in Computer Science can have a wide range of career outcomes, regardless of whether they are already in the engineering field. They can work in computer systems or networks, IT operations or security, or as a programmer or web administrator. The CS degree is incredibly versatile, allowing students to advance in a variety of engineering departments.

Artificial Intelligence, on the other hand, focuses on a niche area of engineering and prepares students for careers in technology innovation, robotics, and autonomous vehicles. AI degree graduates can work with companies creating drones, self-driving cars, or customer behavior prediction.

3. Format

Since the Artificial Intelligence coursework focuses on robotics and is heavily hands on, it’s only offered in person. Computer Science degrees, on the other hand, have the option to be completed online or in person. An online program can be the perfect option for working professionals as it allows you to complete the coursework at the times that work best for you.

Similarities

1. Advancement

Both degrees allow for advancement within the engineering field. Earning a master’s degree can allow students to move into a supervisor role at their company or apply for leadership positions elsewhere. An advanced degree allows a candidate to better market themselves and stand out to recruiters. It can also allow students to teach at the community college level. Students interested in teaching at a four-year university can use the master’s as a stepping stone before applying to PhD programs.

2. Career change

Both master’s degrees allow students to change careers after earning their bachelor’s degree. University of Bridgeport’s Artificial Intelligence program accepts students from all academic backgrounds. For the master’s in Computer Science, there is a preference for students applying with a STEM or Engineering bachelor’s degree. However, students can be admitted with a bachelor’s from another field and take prerequisite courses prior to starting the core curriculum.

3. Flexible Degree Plan

At University of Bridgeport, both the master’s in Artificial Intelligence and the master’s in Computer Science allow for flexible degree plans. This allows students to tailor the degree to meet their academic and career goals. For the master’s in Artificial Intelligence, students choose multiple areas to concentrate in to create their 30-credit degree. For Computer Science, students are allowed 15 credits of electives.

Take the Next Step

Submit your free University of Bridgeport application or email gradadmissions@bridgeport.edu with any additional questions you have!