Advance leadership in artificial intelligence innovation.

This executive hybrid Ph.D. in Artificial Intelligence is designed for working professionals prepared to lead the development and responsible use of AI technologies across industries. The program combines advanced research with applied, hands-on learning, building deep expertise in machine learning, deep learning, natural language processing, reinforcement learning, and data engineering.

Structured in a flexible hybrid format, the program allows executives and senior professionals to balance doctoral study with professional responsibilities while engaging in rigorous research and real-world problem solving. This Ph.D. in Artificial Intelligence delivers the technical depth, scholarly foundation, and leadership focus required to drive innovation and informed decision-making in complex organizations.

For professionals seeking a comprehensive, executive-focused, and flexible Ph.D. in Artificial Intelligence, this hybrid program is designed to align with demanding careers and long-term leadership goals.

Anchor: Stats

By the Numbers

100%

Accredited

26%

Industry Growth

KY

College of Distinction

30

Max Class Size
Anchor: Programs & Requirements
Programs & Requirements

Programs & Requirements

Doctorate in Artificial Intelligence

The executive Doctor of Philosophy in Artificial Intelligence at the University of the Cumberlands, offered through the School of Computer and Information Sciences, delivers a comprehensive, research-based foundation in artificial intelligence while supporting the needs of working professionals through a flexible hybrid format. Students develop advanced expertise in AI systems and intelligent technologies while strengthening critical thinking, innovation, and problem-solving skills.

This executive doctoral program prepares graduates for senior-level and leadership roles such as AI Research Scientist, Machine Learning Engineer, Chief AI Officer, Data Science Director, AI Ethics Consultant, and AI Policy Advisor. Graduates are equipped to lead AI initiatives, guide responsible adoption, and drive meaningful advancements in artificial intelligence across diverse industries.

The hybrid format executive PhD in Artificial Intelligence program is a variation of our fully online program. It includes a residency component, ideal for working professionals who want a program that fits their busy schedules but isn't completely online. The hybrid format of the doctoral degree in artificial intelligence also works well for international students with visas who have a CPT/OPT component to their degree. The executive PhD in Artificial Intelligence program includes one mandatory residency weekend per semester, followed by 60 credit hours of advanced leadership and practical technical strategies in everything from information governance to emerging threats and their countermeasures.

Course Requirements

Anchor: Executive Student Resources
Executive students walking toward graduation ceremony

Executive Student Resources

UC's Department of International Graduate Services enjoys providing support resources for our international students. Find tutorials and information regarding offices and policies for the International Graduate Students and programs.

Executive Program Format

Our Executive Programs include hybrid course days designed for international graduate students studying in the U.S., or domestic students seeking a hybrid-format program.  We strive to incorporate professional experience and real-world application of course curriculum into our programs to enhance the learning experience.  Practical Training is an integral part of program coursework and available to all students.  At the University of the Cumberlands our degree programs focus on quality education at an affordable price.

Executive Program students take three (3) courses per semester.  The program semester is based on the existing UC semester calendar, with three (3) annual semesters: fall, spring, and summer.  Two of the courses each semester focus on the specific program content.  Additionally, students will be required to attend an intensive residency weekend as part of their course enrollment each term.  The third class includes an Applied Learning Practicum, in which students apply what they are learning in their other two courses to the real world via work or internship experiences.

Residency FAQs

Anchor: Mission & Goals

Mission & Goals

The mission of the PhD in Artificial Intelligence at Cumberlands is to prepare professionals to drive responsible innovation in AI through advanced research, technical mastery, and strategic decision-making.

Design intelligent systems that solve real-world problems.
Conduct AI research using advanced data and computational tools.
Build responsible AI that values ethics, transparency, and fairness.
Apply classroom knowledge in professional settings through internships.
Lead AI strategy and development across industries and organizations.
Anchor: Career Outcomes

Artificial Intelligence Careers & Outcomes

*All statistics from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics

AI Research Scientist: $140,910

AI Research Scientist: $140,910

Designs and conducts advanced research to develop new artificial intelligence models and algorithms.

Machine Learning Engineer: $131,450

Machine Learning Engineer: $131,450

Builds, tests, and deploys machine learning systems to solve problems using data.

Chief AI Officer: $206,420

Chief AI Officer: $206,420

Leads the strategic vision and integration of AI tech in all types of businesses.

Data Science Director: $112,590

Data Science Director: $112,590

Leads data-focused teams and projects that help organizations achieve critical objectives. 

AI Ethics Consultant: $152,000

AI Ethics Consultant: $152,000

Advises on the responsible design and use of AI that aligns with company goals, ethics, and standards for quality.

AI Policy Advisor: $125,350

AI Policy Advisor: $125,350

Develops guidelines and recommendations that impact public policy or private business practices. 

Anchor: FAQs

Common Questions

A group of Graduate students entering during the processional at Commencement.

Executive Program Admission Requirements

All students in our executive programs are required to meet a standard set of admissions requirements for graduate students.

Anchor: Faculty

Faculty Experts

Learn more about the professors you will interact with in the Department of Information Technology

Dr. Christian Youngblood

Dr. Christian Youngblood

Associate Professor
School of Computer Information Sciences

Dr. Christian Youngblood

Contact Information

christian.youngblood [at] ucumberlands.edu
Remote
Dr. Elyson De La Cruz

Dr. Elyson De La Cruz

Adjunct Professor
School of Computer Information Sciences

Dr. Elyson De La Cruz

Contact Information

elyson.delacruz [at] ucumberlands.edu
Remote
Dr. Aashis Luitèl

Dr. Aashis Luitèl

Adjunct Professor
School of Computer Information Sciences

Dr. Aashis Luitèl

Contact Information

ash.luitel [at] ucumberlands.edu
Remote

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