Western Connecticut State University

What you'll study

Students gain a solid mathematical and computational foundation and then progress to advanced AI topics. Core topics and courses listed in the program materials include:

• Mathematical foundations: Multivariable mathematics for machine learning, Probability and statistics for machine learning, Analysis and optimization.
• Foundations of AI and core algorithms: Foundations of Artificial Intelligence; courses covering learning algorithms and neural models.
• Deep learning and neural networks: Neural Networks and Deep Learning.
• Sequential decision-making and autonomy: Reinforcement Learning; Autonomous Systems.
• Natural language processing: Natural Language Processing.
• Ethics and safety: Philosophy, Ethics, and Safety of Artificial Intelligence.
• Capstone options: Final project, thesis, or approved internship (typically 3 credit hours).

The catalog provides a sample 1-year plan: Fall semester includes Multivariable Mathematics for Machine Learning (MAT 531), Probability and Statistics for Machine Learning (MAT 532), Foundations of Artificial Intelligence (CS 510), Neural Networks and Deep Learning (CS 525), and Philosophy, Ethics, and Safety of Artificial Intelligence (PHI 527). Spring term includes Analysis and Optimization (MAT 533), Reinforcement Learning (CS 534), Natural Language Processing (CS 533), and Autonomous Systems (CS 532), with the capstone course taken in a later term or summer.

Entry requirements

Applicants must have completed an undergraduate degree. The program requires the following WCSU courses or equivalents as prerequisites:

• MAT 141: Foundational Discrete Mathematics
• MAT 181: Calculus I
• MAT 182: Calculus II
• MAT 207: Proofs or MAT 304: Discrete Mathematics for Computer Science
• MAT 222: Introduction to Statistics
• MAT 272: Linear Algebra
• CS 140: Introduction to Programming
• CS 172: Intermediate Java Programming or CS 170: Language C++
• CS 250: Introduction to Data Structures, Algorithms, and Complexity, or CS 221 together with CS 315: Design and Analysis of Algorithms
• One of CS 305, CS 350, or CS 360 (software engineering topics)
• CS 321: Artificial Intelligence

Prospective students should submit all undergraduate transcripts and a 500-word essay explaining their interest in the program. The program accepts full-time and part-time enrollment. Application materials are sent to the Office of Graduate Studies at Western Connecticut State University or by email to graduateadmissions@wcsu.edu.

Career prospects

Graduates emerge with practical and theoretical skills applicable to roles in machine learning engineering, AI research, robotics and autonomous systems, NLP engineering, and data-driven product development. The mix of mathematical foundations, applied courses, and a thesis/project/internship prepares students for technical industry roles or further research at the doctoral level.

Scholarships & funding angle (general)

The catalog does not list specific scholarships for this program. Prospective students should consult the university’s Office of Graduate Studies and financial aid office for information on graduate assistantships, fellowships, tuition waivers, scholarships, and internship funding opportunities that may apply to master's students.