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Bachelor's Degree

Online Bachelor of Science in Artificial Intelligence (BS)

Gain hands-on experience designing, developing, and deploying AI systems. This artificial intelligence degree program at American Public University (APU) prepares students with career-relevant skills as they learn how to build and use AI technology to solve real-world problems.

Next Start: Apr 6
Register By: Apr 3
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Program Overview

About APU’s Online Artificial Intelligence Degree Program

This bachelor’s degree in artificial intelligence prepares students to use and develop AI systems to solve problems ethically and efficiently. The program examines the ongoing evolution of artificial intelligence, and students consider how the technology will continue to advance.

American Public University has entered a licensing agreement with the Massachusetts Institute of Technology’s Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence Laboratory (MIT CSAIL). Students pursuing this Bachelor of Science will complete two MIT CSAIL courses: ARIN210 Machine Learning in Business and ARIN211 User Experience Design.

Coursework incorporates hands-on activities that integrate industry-standard tools. Students build transferable, career-relevant skills as they learn how AI systems apply to various industries.

The curriculum is designed to accommodate learners with advanced programming skills as well as beginners. APU gradually introduces AI majors to programming languages and today’s best practices for software development throughout this online degree program.

While this bachelor’s degree program does not award any professional certifications, APU’s courses may be helpful in preparing to earn AI certifications.

Cost Per Credit
$360 | $2501
$3242
Admissions
0 entrance exams
Credits
Transfer up to 90 Credits3
Curriculum
120 credits
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Careers & Outcomes

APU’s Online Program Provides a Career-Relevant Education in AI

This online AI degree program heavily integrates hands-on learning, with coursework that explores the connection between front-end inputs and back-end functions. Students practice creating, refining, and evaluating effective AI prompts while they develop their technical skills and learn to build AI-powered systems.
What You Will Do When You Study Artificial Intelligence Online at APU

APU’s curriculum prepares students to use AI and machine learning technologies to solve real problems efficiently and effectively. Courses explore the extensive capabilities of these advanced tools, and learners reflect on the ethical considerations that challenge AI professionals.

Artificial intelligence majors will also:

  • Analyze real-world scenarios and apply their understanding of artificial intelligence models and systems to identify solutions
  • Design, implement, and evaluate artificial intelligence-based solutions to meet a given set of requirements in the context of the discipline’s theory and technologies
  • Utilize modern artificial intelligence-based tools to augment productivity in developing AI software systems and in all workplace activities
  • Communicate effectively in a variety of professional contexts
  • Recognize professional responsibilities and make informed judgments in artificial intelligence practice based on legal and ethical principles
  • Function effectively as a member or leader of a team engaged in artificial intelligence projects

View Program Outcome Assessment Results

Discover Career Opportunities You Can Pursue with an Artificial Intelligence Bachelor’s Degree

This online degree program is designed to equip aspiring AI engineers and software development professionals with practical skills. Assignments provide hands-on experience building intelligent systems that use machine learning and natural language processing to analyze data and solve complex problems. Students will learn how to build a wide range of AI-powered applications, including wrappers, chatbots, retrieval-augmented generation (RAG) systems, and other tools.

Graduates may have potential career opportunities as:

  • Artificial intelligence engineers, who support the development, testing, and deployment of AI systems and applications using machine learning and software tools
  • Machine learning engineers, who develop and evaluate machine learning models to support data-driven products and services
  • Data scientists or AI analysts, who apply AI techniques to generate meaningful insights and support decision-making in organizational settings
  • AI product or solutions specialists, who support AI-enabled products by translating requirements into technical solutions and evaluating system performance

APU’s curriculum also helps lay the groundwork for more advanced academic study in artificial intelligence, computer science, and other related fields.

Gain Real-World Skills When You Study Artificial Intelligence Online at APU

Students majoring in artificial intelligence will develop a broad set of career-relevant skills as they learn how to apply AI technology to real-world scenarios. APU’s comprehensive curriculum examines how to write effective prompts, optimize workflows, and create intuitive AI applications.

Graduates will also demonstrate the ability to:

  • Analyze real-world problems and apply AI models to propose effective solutions
  • Design, implement, and evaluate AI-based solutions using machine learning, data, and software development principles
  • Develop AI-enabled software using programming, data structures, databases, and modern development tools
  • Evaluate the performance and reliability of AI models using appropriate metrics, datasets, and validation techniques
  • Assess ethical, legal, and societal implications of artificial intelligence systems and applications
  • Communicate technical and non-technical AI concepts effectively in professional environments
  • Apply prompt engineering techniques to optimize outputs from generative AI and large language models
Ready to Get Started?
Complete our short online application to start the admission process. You’ll be asked to choose an academic program when you complete the form, but you can change this at any time. There is no fee to apply and the process takes just a few minutes. Start Your Application
“ Artificial intelligence is transforming industries from healthcare to finance to technology. This program prepares students to design, build, and deploy AI systems that solve real business problems. Graduates gain the technical foundation and ethical perspective needed to innovate responsibly in a rapidly evolving marketplace. ”
Jared Gill, PhD
Department Chair
Artificial Intelligence
Courses

Explore Core Courses from APU’s Artificial Intelligence Curriculum

APU’s Bachelor of Science program emphasizes career-readiness. Core courses explore the wide range of real-world applications for generative AI and large language models. Artificial intelligence majors complete numerous hands-on lab exercises as they consider how AI tools will transform countless industries. To conclude their studies, learners complete a final capstone project that showcases their advanced technical abilities and problem-solving skills.
Quick Facts:
  • 120 credits
  • Transfer up to 90 credits3
  • Courses start monthly
  • 8- to 16-week courses
Featured Artificial Intelligence Courses
This course provides students with practical skills to streamline teamwork in AI development through a beginner friendly introduction to version control, version control systems, and git version control. Students learn git and github as essential tools for managing a repository, creating branches, tracking changes, and collaborating effectively on a shared repo in a central place. Through hands-on examples and guided projects, learners practice making commits, reviewing work, and learning how to resolve conflicts that arise during collaborating on coding tasks. The course also introduces best practices for managing files, addressing bugs, and contributing to open-source communities. By the end of the course, students understand core basics of collaborative development and build the ability to enhance productivity and teamwork in professional AI and software development environments. (Prerequisite: ARIN305)
This AI ethics course examines the societal and economic impacts of artificial intelligence, focusing on the ethical challenges, ethical implications, and ethical issues associated with modern AI systems and artificial intelligence technologies. Students explore AI risks such as data privacy, security risks, AI biases, and unfair outcomes, alongside workforce disruption and social implications. The course introduces key ethical frameworks, ethical considerations, and ethical practices used to support responsible AI, trustworthy AI, and effective AI governance across the AI lifecycle. Topics include machine learning, generative AI, training data, data governance, AI regulation, and the role of government regulation and the private sector in managing AI development. Through applied discussions and case studies, students learn to address issues, evaluate potential risks, and promote AI ethics that respect human rights while supporting innovation and sound decision making. (Prerequisite: ARIN100)
This course explores advanced topics in artificial intelligence, focusing on advanced topics shaping the future of AI systems and artificial intelligence systems. Students examine scaling laws, computational power, and the role of inference-time compute in large language models, deep learning, and neural networks. Additional topics in artificial intelligence include reinforcement learning, edge computing, large datasets, expanding context windows, and emerging natural language processing capabilities. Through theoretical analysis and applied exploration, students gain knowledge of state of the art AI techniques, machine learning algorithms, and advanced applications across various industries and business applications. This advanced topics in artificial course equips learners with the tools, techniques, and insight needed to stay ahead of rapidly evolving emerging technologies in artificial intelligence. (Prerequisite: ARIN350)
This artificial intelligence capstone course provides a culminating capstone experience in which students apply foundational concepts, practical skills, and technical expertise developed throughout the program. In this capstone project, learners develop, create, and evaluate a comprehensive AI solution addressing real world challenges and real world applications. Projects may incorporate machine learning, deep learning, natural language processing, computer vision, and modern ai tools, with emphasis on hands on experience, deployment considerations, and professional communication. Students work as a team to manage a complete project lifecycle, demonstrating ability, analysis, and evaluation skills. The course concludes with a formal presentation and assessment, allowing learners to showcase a professional portfolio that supports career readiness and reflects applied artificial intelligence knowledge.
All Course Requirements for the Online Bachelor of Science in Artificial Intelligence
Browse required courses for this program. Printable Catalog Version
Courses Start Monthly
Next Courses Start:
Apr 6, 2026
Register By:
Apr 3, 2026
Request Info Apply Now
Student Experience

Build Lasting Connections with Classmates and Faculty While You Study AI Online at APU

American Public University hosts more than 100 student clubs, including honor societies, professional organizations, and social groups. As aspiring AI professionals, students in this Bachelor of Science program may be especially interested in the Technology Professionals Group. Members meet regularly to discuss current events and the latest trends affecting information technology.

The University also provides online students with access to mentorship and campus leadership opportunities. Learn more about student life at APU.

Signature Skills: A Learning Revolution

Integrated into our student curriculum, these signature skills teach you how to move through the world with confidence. The road to success is paved with signature skills learned at APUS.

  • Digital Literacy Badge Icon

    Encouraging students to use current technologies, critically evaluate emerging tools, and responsibly engage with digital and AI systems.


  • Critical Thinking Badge Logo

    Strengthening the ability in all students to analyze information objectively, question assumptions, explore alternatives, and develop skills essential for navigating continual change.


  • Growth Mindset Badge Logo

    Helping students thrive in dynamic workplaces by reinforcing adaptability, resilience, innovation, and self-awareness.


MyClassroom Streamlines The Online Learning Experience.

APUS Signature Skills
View transcript (Scroll to see full transcript)

Welcome to a learning revolution.

APUS signature skills.

Digital literacy, critical thinking, a growth mindset entwine themselves around the student journey.

They’re in everything we do!

[Signature Skills homepage is shown]

Meant to inform our approach to you, and your ability to thrive beyond the classroom,

these signature skills teach you how to move through the world with confidence.

The road to success is paved with signature skills learned at APUS.

[APUS logo appears]

APU is here to support your student journey

We know your well-being is vital to your success. That's why we offer a range of supportive resources to help you throughout your academic journey.

  • Career Coaching
  • 24/7 Mental Health Support
  • Admissions & Advising Support
  • Student Life

Career Coaching

Get individualized guidance to help you explore career options, strengthen professional skills, and prepare for the next step in your journey. Whether you’re just entering the workforce, changing fields, or advancing your professional knowledge, our career services team is here to help you translate your goals into action.

Learn More

24/7 Mental Health Support

Your well-being is essential to your success. That’s why APU offers access to confidential, flexible, and around-the-clock mental health support. Through our partnerships with telehealth apps, you can connect with peers and professionals anytime you need to manage stress, maintain balance, or find motivation.

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Admissions & Advising Support

From your first course to the day you graduate, our admissions and advising teams are here to guide you every step of the way. You’ll receive personalized assistance with enrollment, program selection, and degree planning from professionals who understand the needs of adult learners.

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Student Life

At APU, learning extends far beyond the classroom. Enrich your college experience and expand your network by getting involved in any of our student organizations. From cultural and social organizations to program-specific honor societies, you’ll find a group to help you thrive during and after your studies.

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Tuition & Costs

Choose APU for an Affordable Bachelor of Science in Artificial Intelligence

Low-cost tuition rates and generous transfer credit opportunities help make higher education accessible and affordable for APU’s online students. University grants further help reduce out-of-pocket expenses for learners in this Bachelor of Science program.
  • $0 Application Fee
  • $0 Textbooks & Ebooks
  • $0 Transfer Credit Evaluation
Estimate Your Tuition Costs:

Earning a degree is a valuable investment, but it needs to fit into your budget. Our tuition estimator can help you estimate your tuition and fees, so you can plan a manageable path to your educational goals. For full details, please refer to the financial aid cost of attendance (COA). This estimate does not include course materials, supplies, equipment, software and other expenses such as lab fees. You may be eligible for partnership grants through your employer. Speak with your admissions representative for more details.

Standard Rate for undergraduate programs.
$360 Undergraduate Cost Per Credit
120 Credits
+$350 Graduation Fee
0 90
Total Estimated Tuition & Fees
The Preferred Military Rate is available to all U.S. active-duty servicemembers, National Guard members, Reservists, and their families.4
$250 Undergraduate Cost Per Credit
120 Credits
+$350 Graduation Fee
0 90
Total Estimated Tuition & Fees
The Veteran Grant is available to honorably discharged veterans from all military branches, and their families.5
$324 Undergraduate Cost Per Credit
120 Credits
+$350 Graduation Fee
0 90
Total Estimated Tuition & Fees
Prospective and current students are eligible for the Opportunity Grant of 10% off undergraduate or master's-level tuition.6
$324 Undergraduate Cost Per Credit
120 Credits
+$350 Graduation Fee
0 90
Total Estimated Tuition & Fees
Apply Now

This is only an estimate and is subject to change. Your tuition amount will vary depending on your unique circumstances, such as your program specialization, transfer credits and any applicable tuition discounts. This estimate does not include course materials, supplies, equipment, software and other expenses such as lab fees. To help you determine your eligibility for Federal Student Aid programs, use the Net Price Calculator (NPC). Note: this is not a replacement for the FAFSA application.


APU Removes Barriers

Quality Education Shouldn’t Break the Bank

We offer special rates and grants for eligible students and limit fees to help keep the cost of higher education within reach. Find out how you can save on tuition expenses with our:

  • Transfer Credits
  • Financial Aid
  • Private Loans & Scholarships
  • Military & Veteran Benefits
Learn More About Ways to Save at APU

Transfer Credits

APU makes it easy to earn credit for the work you’ve already done. We accept transfer credits from prior college coursework, professional training, exams, and certifications. We’ll evaluate your transcripts at no cost and help you maximize eligible credits so you can save time, reduce costs, and stay focused on reaching your education goals sooner.

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Financial Aid

We’re committed to making quality education accessible and affordable. APU participates in federal financial aid programs, including grants and loans for those who qualify. Our Financial Aid Office can provide personalized guidance to help you understand your options, complete required forms, and make an informed decision about paying for your education.

Learn More

Private Loans & Scholarships

In addition to federal financial aid, some APU students choose to explore private education loans or external scholarships to help fund their studies. We encourage all students to first complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to determine eligibility for federal student aid before considering private options. Be sure to research lenders carefully, compare terms, and understand your rights and responsibilities as a borrower.

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Military & Veterans Benefits

APU is proud to serve military servicemembers, veterans, and their families. We accept Tuition Assistance (TA) and other military education benefits to help reduce your out-of-pocket costs. Our Military Tuition Assistance team can help you navigate your benefits every step of the way. 
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Admissions

Apply to the Bachelor of Science in Artificial Intelligence Program Today

This online Bachelor of Science program provides students with a conceptual understanding of AI technology, as well as a broad set of career-relevant technical skills. APU’s courses are designed to accommodate students who are new to the computer science field while still providing an enriching experience for more advanced learners.

The curriculum integrates hands-on lab exercises and gradually introduces programming languages. Students learn how to develop AI tools with and without writing code.

Review our admission requirements and submit your application today.

  • No Entrance Exams No SAT® or ACT® required for undergraduate programs7
  • No Application Fee For undergraduate courses
  • Courses Start Monthly Enroll now, start next month
  • All APU undergraduate programs require a minimum of a high school diploma or equivalent (i.e., GED). Please read all undergraduate admission requirements before applying to this program and be prepared to submit the required documentation.
  • There is no fee to complete the APU admission application for this program. View steps to apply.
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Frequently Asked Questions

Learn More About Pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Artificial Intelligence

Find out more about what you will learn when you major in artificial intelligence. Get answers to common questions about program completion time, AI coursework, and how this APU’s program addresses the ethical considerations AI professionals must navigate.
Completion time may vary, depending on factors such as academic performance, transfer credit eligibility, and the total number of credits a student completes each semester. In general, however, a bachelor’s degree can typically be completed in four years with full-time study.
No. While having a strong background in STEM and computer science may be helpful, it is not necessary to succeed as an AI major. APU’s curriculum provides an in-depth overview of the discipline and covers everything from AI fundamentals to advanced programming concepts. Students will learn how to code and become familiar with programming languages as they progress through the required coursework.
There is no program-level accreditation for this Bachelor of Science in Artificial Intelligence. American Public University is part of American Public University System (APUS). APUS is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (hlcommission.org), an institutional accreditation agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education. The Commission accredits degree-granting institutions nationwide is also recognized by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation.
Students will consider how skilled AI professionals can navigate the ethical challenges surrounding machine learning and natural language processing. Through class discussions and written assignments, learners will reflect on key issues such as bias, fairness, data privacy, and job displacement.
Yes. While a BS in Artificial Intelligence is not required for professional certifications or licensure, APU’s curriculum helps support students’ readiness to pursue additional AI-related credentials.
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The University reserves the right to accept or deny credits according to policies outlined on our University website. Please see the University's transfer credit policy webpage for complete information.

Cost Per Credit Hour

The Preferred Military Rate is $250 per credit hour for undergraduate and master's-level courses. This rate is available to all U.S. active-duty servicemembers, National Guard members, Reservists, and military families, including parents, spouses, legal partners, siblings, and dependents.

See all military student benefits.

Cost of Attendance
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Next Steps
Courses Start Monthly

Next Courses Start: Apr 6, 2026

Register by: Apr 3, 2026

Request Info Apply Now
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  1. with Preferred Military Rate

  2. with Veteran Grant or Opportunity Grant

  3. The University reserves the right to accept or deny credits according to policies outlined on our University website. Please see the University's transfer credit policy webpage for complete information.

  4. All U.S. active-duty servicemembers, National Guard members, Reservists, and military families, (parents, spouses, legal partners, siblings, and dependents) are eligible for the Preferred Military Rate of $250/credit for undergraduate and master’s-level courses. The Preferred Military Rate, which is applied automatically, supersedes all other university grants and special rates, and cannot be combined with any other special promotions. Please note that a technology fee applies to master’s-level courses.

  5. All veterans and family members (parents, spouses, legal partners, siblings, and dependents) are eligible to receive a 10% Veteran Grant on standard undergraduate tuition and 15% for master’s-level tuition. Tuition grants cannot be combined with any other special rates, promotions, or grants and only one can be applied per course.

  6. Prospective and current APUS students are eligible for the Opportunity Grant of 10% off undergraduate or master’s-level tuition. This grant, which is applied automatically, supersedes all other university grants and special rates, and cannot be combined with any other special promotions. Only one can be applied per course.

  7. SAT® is a registered trademark of the College Board.
    ACT® is a registered trademark of ACT.