UC Berkeley has recently officially announced a new program for Fall 2027:
Master of Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning
Master of Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning (MAIML)
Source: UCB
The program is offered by the College of Computing, Data Science, and Society (CDSS), and is jointly designed and taught by professors from the Department of Electrical Engineering & Computer Sciences (EECS) and the Department of Statistics.
Applications for the MAIML program will open on September 24, 2026, with the first cohort enrolling in Fall 2027.
UC Berkeley Launches New AI Program
Program Overview
UC Berkeley’s newly launched Master of Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning is a professional master’s program designed for students with STEM backgrounds.
The program focuses on cultivating students’ computational and statistical foundations in artificial intelligence and machine learning, enabling them to further understand, develop, improve, and responsibly deploy and apply cutting-edge AI and ML systems.
The curriculum covers areas such as data science, machine learning, probability theory, statistical inference, and AI ethics. It also incorporates specialized elective courses, industry events, and immersive Silicon Valley experiences, helping students bridge technical skills with real-world industry applications.
The MAIML program is particularly suited for students aspiring to pursue careers in roles such as Machine Learning Engineer or AI Researcher.
Curriculum Structure
The MAIML program is full-time and conducted in-person over two semesters, allowing students to complete their studies within one academic year.
Source: UCB
The program runs from August to May of the following year, requiring the completion of 24 units of coursework and a Comprehensive Exam.
The first semester primarily consists of foundational courses in data science, probability and statistics, and machine learning. Core courses include:
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Principles and Techniques of Data Science
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Foundations of Probability and Statistical Inference
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Introduction to Machine Learning or Modern Statistical Prediction and Machine Learning
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Communication Skills for Data Professionals
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Comprehensive Examination Preparation
In the second semester, students are required to take:
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Applied Case Studies & Responsible AI Seminar
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Three elective courses
The currently announced elective tracks include Artificial Intelligence, Computer Vision, Deep Neural Networks, Reinforcement Learning, Natural Language Processing, Optimization, Theoretical Statistics, Applied Statistics and Machine Learning, Bayesian Statistics, Time Series, Causal Inference, among others.
Beyond classroom learning, the program also features a dedicated Silicon Valley Immersion.
Source: UCB
Prior to the start of the spring semester, students will participate in a two-day Silicon Valley immersion trip, visiting tech companies, startups, and venture capital firms to understand how artificial intelligence and machine learning are applied in products, business models, and corporate strategies.
The activities will also include company visits, live demonstrations, panel discussions, and networking events with alumni, industry professionals, and corporate executives. For students aspiring to enter the tech industry after graduation, these arrangements provide additional opportunities to gain insights into industry practices and expand their professional resources.
Overall, the MAIML program is distinctly technology-oriented, with coursework focused on machine learning, statistics, algorithms, and foundational AI technologies.
Admission Requirements
Academic Requirements
Applicants must hold a bachelor’s degree or equivalent from an accredited institution, with an undergraduate background relevant to the following fields:
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Computer Science
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Data Science
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Statistics
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Applied Mathematics or other closely related disciplines
The minimum GPA requirement is 3.0/4.0 (B).
Quantitative Competence and Knowledge Base
Applicants need to demonstrate strong quantitative analytical skills and possess a solid foundation in mathematics, programming, and computer science, including:
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Object-Oriented Programming
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Data Structures and Algorithms
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Linear Algebra
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Statistics
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Probability
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Software Engineering
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Multivariate Calculus
These competencies can be demonstrated through relevant coursework completed during undergraduate studies, or through work or research experience.
Standardized Test Scores
Submission of GRE scores is not mandatory; however, applicants may choose to submit them as supplementary evidence of their quantitative abilities.
Source: UCB
International applicants must meet the English language proficiency requirements set by the Graduate Division.
Essays
Applicants are required to submit:
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Statement of Purpose
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Personal History Statement
The Statement of Purpose should explain how this program will help the applicant achieve their future career goals.
Applicants may also use either the Statement of Purpose or the Personal History Statement to describe how they have met the program's prerequisite requirements.
Resume / Letters of Recommendation / Work Experience
A professional resume must be submitted with the application. The resume should cover the applicant's educational background, work experience, and relevant skills, and must not exceed two pages in length.
The program requires three letters of recommendation, including at least one academic letter. If the applicant has prior work experience, it is recommended that at least one professional letter of recommendation be provided.
Relevant work or research experience is not a mandatory condition for admission, but working professionals are welcome to apply.
Source: UCB
Application Timeline
Applications for Fall 2027 admission will open on September 24, 2026. The application deadline is January 11, 2027. No materials will be accepted after the deadline.
Source: UCB
UCB Artificial Intelligence: A Must-Have for You
The University of California, Berkeley boasts leading research and teaching capabilities in the fields of artificial intelligence, computer science, data science, and statistics.
The MAIML program is also currently UC Berkeley's only master's program that provides in-depth training in both theory and practice, centered on the computational and statistical foundations of machine learning and artificial intelligence.
Source: UCB
Compared to some new "AI+" interdisciplinary application programs, the MAIML program has stronger technical attributes and more explicit requirements for foundational knowledge in machine learning, statistics, algorithms, and programming. It is not a "career-switching" AI master's program particularly friendly to students with non-technical backgrounds.
Additionally, with its one-year study model, faculty from EECS and Statistics departments, and Silicon Valley industry resources, this program is worth serious attention for applicants aiming to enter technical roles in AI/ML in the future.
For students who already have a solid foundation in computer science, data science, statistics, or mathematics during their undergraduate studies and plan to focus on applying for artificial intelligence and machine learning directions in the Fall 2027 cycle, MAIML adds a new option to their application list.
Apply for the New UCB AI Master's Program with CheersYou (清柚教育)
If you are interested in the UC Berkeley MAIML program but are unsure whether your undergraduate background, quantitative foundation, prerequisite courses, and relevant experiences match the program's requirements, CheersYou can combine your academic background, project experience, and career planning to further help you assess program fit and application difficulty, as well as organize your overall school selection and application strategy.
To learn if you are suitable for applying to MAIML, or if you wish to obtain more targeted advice for your Fall 2027 applications, please feel free to contact CheersYou for further consultation.
