Originally, I was looking for a dedicated master’s in artificial intelligence, something like an M.S. in AI. But as I explored my options, I found that many of those programs either weren’t focused in the way I had hoped, or they leaned heavily toward business applications like finance, low-code tools, or general analytics. Others lacked the depth I was seeking in core AI topics such as natural language processing, deep learning, neural networks, and computer vision—areas that, through my research, I came to see as essential components of a well-rounded AI education.
After looking closely at several universities, I found that Western Governors University’s MSCS AI/ML program was the right fit for me.
A program that fits how I learn and work WGU’s MSCS AI/ML program combines core computer science knowledge with advanced AI and ML topics. The curriculum covers artificial intelligence, machine learning, neural networks, and deep learning, which is exactly the areas I want to strengthen. What really makes WGU stand out in this program, in my opinion, is the project-based and CBE model. It encourages you to do the assignments rather than tests which in an AI program, I’d expect more of.
The math question addressed directly One question I see come up often about WGU’s AI/ML track is about the level of mathematical rigor. I appreciated that Nick Mahoney, the program’s dean, addressed this transparently during an AMA session in the WGU Computer Science Discord community (discord.gg/EA8ArXgE).
He explained: “We don’t have distinct mathematical courses at the Masters level at this time. However, what we have done is we’ve actually taken mathematical concepts like within linear algebra or various algorithms and have applied it in our AI and ML track. We’ve done this as you can see within the foundations of computer science course where we actually baked in precalculus into the course itself without having to require an additional course.”
Nick went on to point out that the AI/ML track is considered the most challenging track at WGU due to its focus on algorithms, the math behind them, and the expectation that students justify their approaches through coding and research. The math isn’t absent — it’s integrated directly into the applied work where it matters.
Why I chose WGU after exploring other options Before choosing WGU, I looked at several traditional university programs. In one, nearly every assignment required group work, making it harder to move at my own pace and focus deeply on technical work. Another claimed to be fully online but restricted important electives to in-person students. And one had a core course taught at an advanced Java level without listing Java as a prerequisite, putting students at an unnecessary disadvantage. WGU offered the clarity and structure I was looking for: a flexible, affordable, and practical program designed for adult learners who want to build meaningful skills without unnecessary barriers. Preparing for the future WGU’s MSCS AI/ML program gives me the chance to build applied AI, machine learning, and ethical foundations that align with my career goals. The curriculum is on par with other programs I researched, but the structure and support make it a better fit for me. I’m excited to progress through the program at my own pace, focus on mastering the material, and prepare for the next steps in my career.
A program that fits how I learn and work WGU’s MSCS AI/ML program combines core computer science knowledge with advanced AI and ML topics. The curriculum covers artificial intelligence, machine learning, neural networks, and deep learning, which is exactly the areas I want to strengthen. What really makes WGU stand out in this program, in my opinion, is the project-based and CBE model. It encourages you to do the assignments rather than tests which in an AI program, I’d expect more of.
The math question addressed directly One question I see come up often about WGU’s AI/ML track is about the level of mathematical rigor. I appreciated that Nick Mahoney, the program’s dean, addressed this transparently during an AMA session in the WGU Computer Science Discord community (discord.gg/EA8ArXgE).
He explained: “We don’t have distinct mathematical courses at the Masters level at this time. However, what we have done is we’ve actually taken mathematical concepts like within linear algebra or various algorithms and have applied it in our AI and ML track. We’ve done this as you can see within the foundations of computer science course where we actually baked in precalculus into the course itself without having to require an additional course.”
Nick went on to point out that the AI/ML track is considered the most challenging track at WGU due to its focus on algorithms, the math behind them, and the expectation that students justify their approaches through coding and research. The math isn’t absent — it’s integrated directly into the applied work where it matters.
Why I chose WGU after exploring other options Before choosing WGU, I looked at several traditional university programs. In one, nearly every assignment required group work, making it harder to move at my own pace and focus deeply on technical work. Another claimed to be fully online but restricted important electives to in-person students. And one had a core course taught at an advanced Java level without listing Java as a prerequisite, putting students at an unnecessary disadvantage. WGU offered the clarity and structure I was looking for: a flexible, affordable, and practical program designed for adult learners who want to build meaningful skills without unnecessary barriers. Preparing for the future WGU’s MSCS AI/ML program gives me the chance to build applied AI, machine learning, and ethical foundations that align with my career goals. The curriculum is on par with other programs I researched, but the structure and support make it a better fit for me. I’m excited to progress through the program at my own pace, focus on mastering the material, and prepare for the next steps in my career.