Artificial Intelligence, Ph.D.
Program Quick Facts
Credits
72
Start Terms
Fall
|Spring
Available
On Campus
|Online
Tuition
$3,365.10
estimated cost per semester
Dakota State University’s Doctor of Philosophy in Artificial Intelligence is a research-driven program designed for working professionals and experienced technologists who want to deepen their expertise, lead innovation, and shape the future of AI. Grounded in computer science, data science, and cybersecurity, the program prepares students to conduct advanced research in areas such as machine learning, deep learning, computer vision, natural language processing, distributed AI, and ethical AI. Through flexible online and on-campus options, doctoral candidates develop real-world solutions and advanced leadership skills for careers in academia, industry, government, and national defense.
Curriculum and experience highlights
Research-driven AI education
The Ph.D. in Artificial Intelligence emphasizes original inquiry, advanced scholarship, and high-impact contributions to the field. Students explore the theory, design, and application of intelligent systems while developing the research skills needed to advance AI knowledge.
Flexible doctoral study
The program is designed for full-time or part-time students, with courses offered across fall, spring, and summer terms. Students may pursue the degree on campus or 100% online.
Notable courses
Develop the mathematical foundations needed to understand and advance modern AI methods.
Study the principles, models, and methods that support machine learning research and application.
Explore neural network architectures and deep learning techniques used in modern AI systems.
Examine ethical, professional, and societal considerations in the design and deployment of AI.
Study the security risks, adversarial threats, and defensive strategies associated with AI systems.
Why choose DSU for artificial intelligence?
Reputable, cutting-edge education
DSU is a nationally recognized leader in technology-driven education. The Ph.D. in Artificial Intelligence builds on the university’s strengths in computer science, cybersecurity, cyber operations, data science, and applied research. This doctoral program is one of the first of its kind in the nation, reinforcing DSU’s position at the forefront of emerging areas within the global cyber landscape.
Industry-focused Research
Advance artificial intelligence through original research in areas such as autonomous systems, computer vision, natural language processing, generative deep learning, scalable systems, and adversarial modeling. Collaborate with DSU’s applied research partners on real-world challenges in cybersecurity, smart grid technologies, assistive technologies, secure tools, and ethical innovation.
Faculty
Meet the growing demand
Demand for AI professionals continues to accelerate nationwide, and South Dakota has emerged as one of the country’s fastest-growing states for cybersecurity and AI industry growth, with the sector expanding 350% over the past decade. Currently, students seeking doctoral-level AI education must leave the state of South Dakota to pursue those opportunities. DSU’s Ph.D. in Artificial Intelligence helps fill that gap by preparing graduates for advanced research and leadership roles in healthcare, agriculture, cybersecurity, finance, education, energy, public safety, and national defense. You will graduate prepared to lead innovation in these critical sectors.
Your future at DSU begins today.
Next steps
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May 1 for admission to the following fall semester
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September 15 for admission to the following spring semester