Artificial intelligence (AI) is changing many industries, from healthcare to finance and beyond. If you’re interested in working in AI, choosing the right degree is essential. Here are the best degrees for artificial intelligence and explain why these fields are great options for anyone looking to build a career in AI.
1. Computer Science
A computer science degree is one of the best degrees for AI. It teaches the fundamentals of
Programming, algorithms, and data structures are all essential for AI work. Many computer science programs also offer specialized courses in AI topics like machine learning, robotics, and data science. For anyone serious about AI, computer science is one of the best degrees for AI to pursue.
Why it’s a good choice:
- Offers strong programming skills, which are essential for AI development.
- Many programs allow students to specialize in AI.
- Graduates are prepared for a variety of AI-related roles.
2. Data Science
AI depends on data to learn and make decisions. AI-related jobs are growing quickly. The World Economic Forum expects a 30% increase in roles like data analysts, machine learning specialists, and business intelligence analysts by 2027.
A data science degree is a great option if you’re interested in working with large datasets to develop AI systems. Data science teaches you how to analyze and interpret data, which is key to building AI models. If you enjoy working with data and want to focus on the practical side of AI, Data Science is one of the best degrees for AI.
Why it’s a good choice:
- Focuses on data analysis, which is critical for AI.
- Covers machine learning, an important part of AI.
- Opens doors to jobs in AI and data analytics.
3. Artificial Intelligence
Some universities offer a degree specifically in Artificial Intelligence. This degree dives deep into AI technologies like machine learning, neural networks, and robotics. If you want to focus solely on AI, this is an ideal degree.
Why it’s a good choice:
- Offers in-depth knowledge of AI.
- Covers a wide range of AI topics, from algorithms to applications.
- Prepares students for advanced roles in AI development.
4. Machine Learning
A machine learning degree is a great option if you want to specialize in teaching computers to learn from data. Machine learning is a major subset of AI, and it’s a growing field with many job opportunities. If you’re interested in making AI smarter, machine learning is one of the best degrees for artificial intelligence.
Why it’s a good choice:
- Focuses directly on the algorithms that power AI.
- Prepares students for jobs in AI research and machine learning engineering.
- Provides a deep understanding of how AI systems learn and improve.
5. Robotics
If you’re interested in combining AI with physical machines, a Robotics degree is a perfect fit. This program teaches you how to design and build robots that can perform tasks autonomously, often using AI for decision-making. For anyone interested in applying AI to physical machines, robotics is a top choice among degrees for AI.
Why it’s a good choice:
- Combines AI with engineering to build real-world systems.
- Prepares you for careers in developing robots and autonomous devices.
- Focuses on both software and hardware.
6. Cognitive Science
Cognitive science is the study of how humans think, learn, and process information. This field is highly relevant to AI because it helps inform the development of AI that mimics human thinking and decision-making. If you want to understand both human cognition and AI, Cognitive Science is one of the best majors for AI.
Why it’s a good choice:
- Combines AI with psychology and neuroscience.
- Provides insight into how to make AI systems more human-like.
- Great for those interested in AI that interacts with people.
7. Electrical Engineering
Electrical engineering is essential for anyone interested in the hardware side of AI. Many AI systems, like self-driving cars, require complex electrical systems. A degree in electrical engineering will give you the skills to build and maintain the hardware that powers AI.
Why it’s a good choice:
- Focuses on the electrical systems behind AI devices.
- Teaches skills like signal processing, which is important for AI.
- Prepares students for roles in AI hardware design.
8. Mathematics
Mathematics is crucial for understanding AI, especially in areas like machine learning and deep learning. A mathematics degree provides the strong analytical and problem-solving skills needed to develop and understand AI models.
Why it’s a good choice:
- Teaches the mathematical concepts behind AI algorithms.
- Covers areas like calculus, linear algebra, and probability, which are key for AI.
- Ideal for those who want to work on the theory behind AI.
9. Information Technology
An Information Technology (IT) degree can be a great fit for those interested in applying AI to real-world systems and managing AI technologies in businesses. This degree covers many practical aspects of AI, like deploying and maintaining AI systems. For those looking to work with AI in the real world, an IT degree is one of the best degrees for AI.
Why it’s a good choice:
- Focuses on the application and management of AI systems.
- Covers topics like cybersecurity and cloud computing, both of which are relevant for AI.
- Prepares students for operational roles in AI development.
10. Physics
A Physics degree teaches the problem-solving skills needed for AI, especially in areas like quantum computing and simulation. Physics students often work with complex systems and models, which is highly applicable to AI. If you’re interested in AI research or cutting-edge technologies, a Physics degree is a strong option for the best degree for artificial intelligence.
Why it’s a good choice:
- Develops analytical skills needed for AI.
- Covers computational techniques that are useful for AI.
- Ideal for those interested in AI research or quantum computing.
11. Software Engineering
Software engineering teaches you how to design and build the software that powers AI applications. AI systems require efficient, scalable software, and software engineers are responsible for creating it. If you want to work on the software side of AI, Software Engineering is one of the best degrees for AI.
Why it’s a good choice:
- Focuses on developing software for AI systems.
- Teaches programming and software design principles that are crucial for AI.
- Prepares students for jobs in AI software development.
12. Neuroscience
Neuroscience studies the brain and nervous system, and this knowledge can be used to develop AI systems that mimic how humans think. A degree in Neuroscience can lead to careers in AI that aim to replicate human brain functions. For those interested in AI that mimics human cognition, neuroscience is one of the best degrees for AI.
Why it’s a good choice:
- Focuses on the brain, which informs how AI can simulate human thought.
- Covers topics like neural networks, which are key to AI.
- Great for students interested in developing brain-inspired AI systems.
13. Bioinformatics
Bioinformatics is a field that combines biology and data science. As AI plays an increasing role in healthcare, bioinformatics is one of the best degrees for artificial intelligence, especially in fields like genomics and drug discovery.
Why it’s a good choice:
- Combines AI with biology to analyze complex biological data.
- Plays a big role in the future of healthcare and medicine.
- Perfect for students interested in AI in life sciences.
14. Human-Computer Interaction (HCI)
Human-Computer Interaction studies how humans interact with technology. As AI becomes more common, understanding how people use AI systems is crucial. HCI teaches you how to design AI systems that are easy for people to use.
Why it’s a good choice:
- Focuses on making AI systems user-friendly.
- Covers design principles that are key to AI products.
- Prepares students for roles in AI user experience and interface design.
15. Economics
Economics is the study of markets, decisions, and behaviors. AI is increasingly used in economics for things like market prediction and policy analysis. A degree in economics with a focus on AI can open up many exciting career opportunities.
Why it’s a good choice:
- Combines AI with economics to solve real-world problems.
- Useful in fields like finance, marketing, and government policy.
- Prepares students for roles where AI and economics intersect.
To bring it all together, choosing the right degree for artificial intelligence is about aligning your interests with the future of AI. While degrees in fields like computer science or data science are common, other areas like cognitive science, neuroscience, or economics also offer valuable perspectives on AI’s real-world impact. The important thing is to stay flexible and choose a path that will keep you prepared for the ever-evolving AI landscape.