Columbia Engineering Launches New AI Master’s Program
Columbia Engineering has announced a new Master of Science in Artificial Intelligence (MSAI) program, set to begin in . The program aims to address the growing demand for skilled AI professionals by combining core computer science and engineering principles with specialized concentrations across a wide range of disciplines.
The MSAI program will offer both an on-campus and a fully online learning experience, both adhering to the same rigorous academic standards. The online program will utilize a cohort-based approach designed to foster a strong learning community. This dual format aims to broaden access to advanced AI education while maintaining a high level of academic quality.
Interdisciplinary Focus
A key differentiator of the Columbia program is its emphasis on interdisciplinary application. Students will be able to specialize in concentrations leveraging the Engineering School’s strengths in areas like advanced computing, robotics, biomedical engineering, and infrastructure. The program extends beyond engineering, offering concentrations in fields such as policy, medicine, public health, architecture, statistics, and even the arts, and media.
“The MSAI fills a gap between pure technical degrees, like computer science and data science, and programs focused on specific domains such as health or finance,” explained Vishal Misra, RKS Family Professor of Computer Science and vice dean of computing and AI, and co-director of the program. “With Columbia’s extensive AI research presence, students have all the resources they need to support their education in this highly interdisciplinary area.”
Program Structure and Requirements
The 30-credit program requires students to complete four core AI foundational courses and four courses within their chosen concentration. Students can also opt for a two-semester capstone project, providing an opportunity to collaborate with industry partners on real-world AI challenges.
Applicants will be expected to demonstrate proficiency in programming (particularly Python), data structures and algorithms, linear algebra, and calculus/probability. Recognizing that students may come from diverse academic backgrounds, the program will offer preparatory or bridge courses to ensure all students have the necessary foundational skills.
Garud Iyengar, Avanessians Director of the Data Science Institute and professor of industrial engineering and operations research, and also a co-director of the program, noted, “While we expect many students will have a computer science, computer engineering, or software background, the program is designed to accommodate students from other disciplines and professionals with different backgrounds without diluting the rigor of the core curriculum. For example, someone with a healthcare background and basic programming skills can learn AI to become a specialist in AI for healthcare, whereas someone with a computer science background may want to deepen their foundation in a domain like finance or policy. The mix of backgrounds will enrich all aspects of the program.”
Columbia’s Broader AI Initiatives
The MSAI program builds upon Columbia University’s existing commitment to artificial intelligence research and education. The Engineering School currently boasts over 70 full-time faculty members and more than 10 research centers dedicated to AI. The school also hosts a regular Lecture Series in AI, featuring prominent figures in the field, and recently introduced an undergraduate minor in AI.
Dean Shih-Fu Chang of Columbia Engineering emphasized the program’s unique scope, stating, “With its unique rigor and broad scope, this program is the first AI graduate program to include such comprehensive cross-disciplinary concentrations. 21st-century society demands that these kinds of educational pathways be made possible for our students. We’re proud to offer such a unified and rigorous AI curriculum with opportunities to apply AI in various domains so that students are prepared for success in their chosen field.”
Career Prospects
Graduates of the MSAI program will enter a job market experiencing significant demand for AI talent. The program is designed to equip students with both the technical depth in AI and the domain-specific knowledge required by employers across various sectors. Potential career paths include AI/ML engineer, applied scientist, and data scientist with a focus on AI.
The program’s location in New York City, a major hub for finance, healthcare, media, and law, is expected to provide graduates with a competitive advantage. Industries are actively seeking professionals to develop AI models and tools, implement algorithmic trading strategies, detect fraud, analyze medical imaging, and generate AI-driven content.
Application Information
The application process for the term is currently open. The initial deadline for the on-campus program is , while the deadline for the online program is . Further information about the program and the application process can be found on the program websites.
Support from Across Columbia
The program has garnered support from various schools within Columbia University. Katrina Armstrong, Dean of the Faculties of Health Sciences and the Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, highlighted the collaboration with the Department of Biomedical Informatics to integrate AI into medicine and health. Keren Yarhi-Milo, Dean of the School of International and Public Affairs, emphasized the importance of combining technical expertise with ethical considerations and responsible AI governance. Kathleen Sikkema, Interim Dean of the Columbia Mailman School of Public Health, noted the potential of AI to transform healthcare and promote global well-being. Sarah Cole, Dean of the School of the Arts, expressed excitement about the new concentration in Arts, Creativity, and Media.
