Everything You Need to Know About an Artificial Intelligence Degree: From Bachelor's to PhD
Updated on Feb 27, 2025 | 12 min read | 1.4k views
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Updated on Feb 27, 2025 | 12 min read | 1.4k views
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Imagine self-driving cars, like those from Tesla, cruising down highways, navigating traffic, and making real-time decisions for safety and efficiency. This technology is the result of AI engineers who are shaping the future with every line of code.
AI’s contribution is not restricted to automation. From improving healthcare diagnoses to enhancing customer experiences, AI is driving innovation across every industry. According to PwC, AI is expected to contribute USD 15.7 trillion to the global economy by 2030 (PwC), further amplifying its economic potential.
If you're looking to enter the world of artificial intelligence and build a professional career, you're in the right place. This blog will answer all your questions about pursuing an AI degree and how to build a successful career in this exciting field. Dive in!
Stay ahead in data science, and artificial intelligence with our latest AI news covering real-time breakthroughs and innovations.
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is the process through which machines simulate human intelligence, particularly computer systems. These processes include learning (acquiring information), reasoning (solving problems), and self-correction.
AI can range from simple tasks like automating repetitive tasks to complex systems like self-driving cars.
Artificial intelligence is a multi-disciplinary field that combines computer science, data analysis, machine learning, and neural networks. Here’s how it combines these streams.
Now, let’s take a closer look at the key qualifications you should be aware of before diving into an AI program.
Here are the key academic requirements for an artificial intelligence degree.
An artificial intelligence degree typically requires specific qualifications (ex, a B.E. or B.Tech), foundational knowledge (ex, proficiency in programming languages), and sometimes an entrance exam score (ex, GATE score).
Work experience may not always be required. However, relevant work experience or internships can strengthen your application and provide practical knowledge. For example, working as an intern in firms specializing in AI.
Certain institutions may recommend certifications in programming, data science, or machine learning to enhance your qualifications for the degree. For example, Google’s AI/ML Professional Certificate.
Some institutes need entrance exam scores, such as the GATE (for engineering courses) or GRE for advanced AI degrees.
Now that you know the foundation, let's explore the specific skills that will help you thrive in an AI degree program!
A strong knowledge of technical concepts like programming, NLP, mathematics, and data science is needed for an artificial intelligence degree.
Here’s the breakdown of the skills required for this degree.
Proficiency in languages like Java, Python, and C++ is essential. These languages are commonly used in AI development, data manipulation, and building machine learning models.
Understanding the fundamentals of NLP will help you in developing AI systems that can interpret, analyze, and generate human language.
A solid foundation of data science concepts, such as data cleaning, exploration, and visualization, will help you while working with AI models.
Knowledge of data structures such as linked lists, arrays, trees, graphs, and hash tables is necessary for developing efficient algorithms, optimizing performance, and solving complex problems in Artificial Intelligence.
Essential mathematical knowledge, such as linear algebra, statistics, probability, and calculus, is necessary for developing AI algorithms and understanding machine learning models.
Problem-solving skills will help you tackle complex challenges and design effective solutions.
Want to elevate your analytical skills and open doors for a career in data science? Join the free course on the basics of inferential statistics.
Now that you have a basic idea of artificial intelligence degree requirements, let’s explore different degrees in detail.
A bachelor’s degree in artificial intelligence will teach you core concepts and skills to work in AI fields like machine learning, data science, robotics, and automation.
Here are some of the bachelor’s in artificial intelligence degree courses.
Degree Course | Eligibility | Duration |
B.Tech in Computer Science and Engineering with Specialization in AI & ML | 10+2 with Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics | 4 years |
B.Tech in Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning | 10+2 with Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics | 4 years |
B.Tech in AI and Robotics | 10+2 with Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics | 4 years |
B.Tech in AI and IoT (Internet of Things) | 10+2 with Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics | 4 years |
B.Sc in Artificial Intelligence | 10+2 with Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics | 3 years |
BCA in Artificial Intelligence | 10+2 with Mathematics | 3 years |
The artificial intelligence degree course will give you hands-on skills in aspects like data science, AI algorithms, programming languages, and machine learning.
Here are the key skills you’ll gain from an artificial intelligence degree.
Also Read: 12 Best Robotics Projects Ideas & Topics for Beginners & Experienced
Now that you’ve covered artificial intelligence degree requirements, let's explore the career opportunities available after earning a bachelor's in AI.
As an artificial intelligence degree graduate, you can explore career opportunities in fields such as machine learning, data science, and AI development. You'll have the chance to contribute to cutting-edge technologies across industries like technology, automotive, healthcare, and cybersecurity.
The following table contains job roles and salaries of roles associated with artificial intelligence.
Job Roles | Average Annual Salary |
Data Analyst | INR 6L |
Business Intelligence Developer | INR 7L |
Machine Learning Engineer | INR 11L |
Data Scientist | INR 12L |
AI Researcher | INR 8L |
Source: Glassdoor
Want to know the practical use of artificial intelligence? Join upGrad’s free course on artificial intelligence in the real world.
After a quick overview of the bachelor's in artificial intelligence degree, let's explore the details of a Master's in artificial intelligence degree.
The master’s degree in artificial intelligence provides in-depth knowledge and specialized skills needed to work on advanced AI technologies. In the master’s course, you’ll be studying topics like neural networks, robotics, machine learning algorithms, and natural language processing in detail
Here’s a list of different master’s in artificial intelligence degree courses.
Course Name | Eligibility | Duration |
M.Tech in Artificial Intelligence | B.Tech or B.E. in Computer Science, IT, or related field | 2 years |
M.Tech in Data Science and Artificial Intelligence | B.Tech or B.E. in Computer Science, IT, or related field | 2 years |
M.S. in Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning | B.Tech or B.E. in Computer Science, IT, or related field | 2 years |
M.Sc in Artificial Intelligence | B.Sc or B.Tech in Computer Science, Mathematics, or related field | 2 years |
M.S. in Artificial Intelligence and Robotics | B.Tech or B.E. in Computer Science, Electronics, or related field | 2 years |
M.Tech in AI and IoT | B.Tech or B.E. in Computer Science, Electronics, or related field | 2 years |
Here are the skills you’ll gain from a master’s in artificial intelligence degree.
Also Read: Be A Big Data Analyst – Skills, Salary & Job Description
The skills gained during your master’s in artificial intelligence degree will help you get jobs such as AI researcher, data engineer, data scientist, and robotics engineer.
The following table contains job roles and average salaries of roles you can get after a master’s degree in artificial intelligence.
Job Role | Average Annual Salary |
Data Engineer | INR 9L |
Computer Scientist | INR 26L |
Data Scientist | INR 12L |
AI Engineer | INR 10L |
AI Consultant | INR 14L |
Source: Glassdoor
Also Read: Top 10 Artificial Intelligence (AI) Jobs & Salary Offered in 2024
Now that you have a general understanding of the master's degree in artificial intelligence, let's explore the PhD degree in AI.
A PhD degree is a research-oriented program that focuses on advancing knowledge and innovation in the field of AI. During the degree, you’ll be studying different AI techniques, solving complex problems, and conducting research in areas such as machine learning and computational linguistics.
Here’s a list of different types of PhD in artificial intelligence degrees.
Course Name | Eligibility | Duration |
PhD in Robotics and Artificial Intelligence | Master’s degree in Robotics, AI, Computer Science, or a related field. | 3-5 years |
PhD in Natural Language Processing (NLP) and AI | Master’s degree in AI, Linguistics, or Computer Science. | 3-5 years |
PhD in Computational Intelligence and AI | Master’s degree in AI, Computational Science, or a related field. | 3-5 years |
PhD in AI Ethics and Policy | Master’s degree in Computer Science, AI, Philosophy, or a related field. | 3-5 years |
PhD in AI and Cognitive Computing | Master’s degree in Cognitive Science, Computer Science, AI, or a related field. | 3-5 years |
PhD in AI and Data Science | Master’s degree in Computer Science, Data Science, AI, or a related field. | 3-5 years |
Also Read: Data Science for Beginners: A Comprehensive Guide
After completing a PhD in Artificial Intelligence, you can step into leadership roles at tech companies, academic institutions, and research organizations. Given the high demand for AI experts, you'll have strong career prospects and the potential for substantial earnings.
The following table contains job roles and salaries of roles you can get after a PhD in artificial intelligence.
Job Role | Average Annual Salary |
College Professor | INR 6L |
AI Architect | INR 34L |
Deep Learning Engineer | INR 10L |
Computer Vision Scientist | INR 11L |
NLP Researcher | INR 19.5L |
Source: Glassdoor, Ambitionbox
Boost your Machine Learning career by mastering NLP. Join the free course on Introduction to Natural Language Processing (NLP).
Now that you're familiar with the different artificial intelligence degrees, let's explore how you can get started in the field of AI.
Artificial intelligence is one of the rapidly growing fields, offering high returns on the right skills. From traditional degrees to online courses and certifications, there are various options for learning AI.
Here are different ways to get started with artificial intelligence.
A Bachelor's degree in AI or related fields like Computer Science lays a solid foundation for AI concepts such as algorithms, data science, and machine learning.
A Master's degree in AI offers specialization in machine learning, deep learning, robotics, and natural language processing.
Want to gain advanced knowledge and skills to excel in artificial intelligence? Join the course on Master of Science in Machine Learning and AI.
If you wish to contribute original research to the field of AI, a PhD is ideal. It involves extensive research and development in areas like neural networks, robotics, and AI ethics.
Online AI degree programs provide flexibility for working professionals or those who want to start learning AI from the comfort of their homes. upGrad’s advanced certificate program in Generative AI is one such course on AI.
Want to take your artificial intelligence knowledge to the next level through advanced studies? Enroll in the Master’s Degree in Artificial Intelligence and Data Science.
Bootcamps will teach you AI in a short time, usually in 6 to 12 weeks. Their focus is on practical, job-ready skills in AI development and data science.
Want to master cutting-edge technology in artificial intelligence? Join the course on the Advanced Certificate Program in Generative AI.
Short-term certification courses are ideal if you’re looking to upskill quickly. These certifications provide hands-on experience in tools like Python, TensorFlow, and Keras.
Want to learn Python for data analysis, machine learning, and more? Join the free course on Programming with Python: Introduction for Beginners.
The right Artificial Intelligence degree will equip you with both theoretical knowledge and practical skills, along with valuable industry connections and career opportunities. However, selecting the right program can be a challenging task.
Here are different factors that will help you choose the right artificial intelligence degree.
Ensure the curriculum covers essential AI topics like natural language processing (NLP), machine learning, deep learning, computer vision, data science, and reinforcement learning.
Choose a program from a well-recognized institution that is accredited by national or international bodies. Look for universities that have partnered with leading tech companies or research institutes.
Consider the overall cost of the degree. Check whether the program offers scholarships, grants, or loan options to reduce financial burden.
Choose a program that provides access to internships or industrial training. Look for programs that offer regular workshops, hackathons, or guest lectures from industry experts.
Decide whether you want to pursue a full-time degree or a part-time program. If flexibility is important to you, consider online or hybrid courses.
Check whether a recognized academic body accredits the program. If you plan to work abroad, check if the degree is recognized internationally.
Choose a program that offers career counseling, job fairs, or recruitment drives with leading tech companies. Research the program’s placement record.
Confused about how to plan the next step in your career? Join the free course on career planning fundamentals.
Now that you've gained a detailed understanding of the artificial intelligence degree, let's explore how you can build a successful career in AI.
An artificial intelligence degree not only equips you with essential skills but also validates your expertise in artificial intelligence technologies.
If you’re looking for flexibility, an online artificial intelligence degree can help you gain the knowledge and skills without the constraints of traditional classroom learning.
upGrad is one such platform that offers online AI courses. With over 1 crore+ learners, 1400+ hiring partners, and 250+ industry experts, upGrad provides you with the skills and opportunities to accelerate your career.
Here are courses offered by upGrad in artificial intelligence and related fields.
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