The AI boom continues to gain momentum, with U.S. universities accelerating their expansion into AI-related programs.
Recently, Rice University announced the launch of a new Master of Artificial Intelligence (MAI) program, scheduled to welcome its inaugural cohort in Fall 2027. Applications are now open.
Unlike traditional master's programs that focus on broad computer science knowledge or data analytics, this new program emphasizes the design, development, training, and deployment of AI systems, helping students master the core technologies and engineering practices required in the field of artificial intelligence.
For students planning to apply for Fall 2027 admission who wish to delve deeper into AI technology, this is another noteworthy new option!
Source: rice
Rice Launches New AI Master’s Program
Program Overview
The MAI program at Rice is offered by the Department of Computer Science within the George R. Brown School of Engineering and Computing. It is a non-thesis professional master’s degree designed with a strong emphasis on career readiness.
The program follows an in-person instruction model and requires the completion of 30 credits. Typically spanning three semesters, full-time students can expect to complete the degree in 12 to 16 months.
As a professionally oriented master’s degree focused on employment outcomes, the MAI program places greater emphasis on practical application, highlighting the integration of AI technologies with engineering practices.
Source: rice
Curriculum
The curriculum for Rice’s MAI program covers mathematics, computer science, and artificial intelligence. It focuses primarily on AI fundamentals, deep learning, and large-scale AI systems, balancing theoretical knowledge with practical application.
Representative courses include:
Artificial Intelligence: Students learn the fundamental principles and algorithms of AI systems, gaining an understanding of how AI perceives, reasons, and makes decisions in complex environments.
Deep Machine Learning: This course covers the mathematical foundations of modern machine learning, Transformer architectures, and techniques for training large models.
Large-Scale Systems for AI: Focuses on the systems and infrastructure required for deploying AI at scale, including data processing, GPU acceleration, and distributed training technologies.
Source: Rice
In addition, the program offers specialized professional skills courses, elective courses, and seminar sessions.
On the practical side, students are required to participate in a team Capstone project, collaborating from conception and development through testing and evaluation to complete a functional AI application system.
Simultaneously, the program includes a mandatory internship component, providing students with the opportunity to apply their knowledge in real-world work environments.
Application Requirements
The Rice University MAI program primarily targets applicants with a background in computer science or related technical fields, including recent graduates as well as working professionals seeking to further enhance their AI engineering capabilities.
Academic Requirements
- A bachelor's degree in Computer Science or a related field
- An undergraduate GPA of 3.0 or higher
- Foundational mathematical knowledge in areas such as linear algebra, calculus, and probability & statistics
- Proficiency in programming, data structures and algorithms, computer organization, and systems
Application Materials
- Undergraduate transcripts
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)/Resume
- Statement of Purpose
- Three letters of recommendation
- GRE scores are recommended but not strictly required
- Proof of English language proficiency
- Application fee of $85 USD
Source: Rice
Application Timeline
February 10, 2027: Priority deadline for scholarship consideration
May 1, 2027: Deadline for international applicants
July 1, 2027: Deadline for domestic U.S. applicants
*The university offers scholarships based on comprehensive criteria such as academic performance. Eligible applicants are automatically considered for these awards upon submission of their applications.
Rice University has continued to expand its investment in the field of artificial intelligence in recent years. Following the launch of an undergraduate major in Artificial Intelligence in Fall 2025, the school introduced this standalone Master’s program in AI, further enriching the professional offerings in this domain.
If you are planning your applications for Fall 2027 and have interests in AI, Computer Science, Data Science, or related fields, it is highly recommended to keep an eye on Rice University’s newly launched AI program!
