Lead the Future of AI Innovation
This online PhD in Artificial Intelligence is designed for professionals ready to lead the development and responsible use of AI technologies across industries. Through hands-on projects and research, the program builds expertise in machine learning, deep learning, natural language processing, reinforcement learning, and data engineering. Whether you're solving complex challenges or driving innovation in your field, this PhD in Artificial Intelligence online program delivers the technical knowledge, research experience, and flexible format to support your goals.
If you’re looking for comprehensive and flexible Artificial Intelligence PhD programs, this online program could be the perfect fit for your busy life and professional goals.
By the Numbers
Programs & Requirements
Online Doctorate in Artificial Intelligence
Every industry is being reshaped by artificial intelligence, and the need for skilled leaders in the field is only growing. Gain a competitive edge with a Doctorate in Artificial Intelligence that focuses on ethical innovation, advanced research, and real-world application. This 100% online PhD program is designed for professionals who want a practical and theoretical understanding of artificial intelligence through a hands-on approach that includes working on major end-to-end projects, research assignments, and exercises.
The Doctor of Philosophy in Artificial Intelligence at the University of the Cumberlands in its School of Computer and Information Sciences provides a practical and theoretical understanding of artificial intelligence through a hands-on and research-based approach that includes working on major end-to-end projects, research assignments, and exercises. It is designed to equip students with the advanced expertise needed for professional roles such as AI Research Scientist, Machine Learning Engineer, Chief AI Officer, Data Science Director, AI Ethics Consultant, and AI Policy Advisor. The program fosters critical thinking, innovation, and problem-solving skills. Graduates will be well-prepared to lead and drive advancements in artificial intelligence, shaping the future of AI across diverse industries.
Course Requirements
- PhDAI 730 - Statistics for AI
- PhDAI 731 - Analytical Methods for Machine Learning
- PhDAI 732 - Fundamentals of AI-Enabled Systems
- PhDAI 733 - Python Application for Data Analytics in AI
- PhDAI 830 - Applied Machine Intelligence and Reinforcement Learning
- PhDAI 831 - Deep Learning and Natural Language Processing
- PhDAI 832 - Ethics in Responsible AI
- PhDAI 833 - Data Engineering for AI
- PhDAI 834 - Trustworthy and Explainable AI
- DSRT 734 - Inferential Statistics in Decision-making
- DSRT 736 - Dissertation Seminar
- DSRT 834 - Advanced Statistical Applications
- DSRT 837 - Professional Writing and Proposal Development
- DSRT 839 - Advanced Research Methods
- DSRT 850 - Qualitative Research Methods
- DSRT 930 - Dissertation
- DSRT 931 - Dissertation*
* If the dissertation is not completed at the end of DSRT 931, the candidate repeats DSRT 931 as needed, for three (3) credit hours each term, until the dissertation is completed and successfully defended.
Take the Next Step
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.
Artificial Intelligence Careers & Outcomes
*All statistics from the U.S. Bureau of Labor and 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.
Common Questions
A Ph.D. in Artificial Intelligence (AI) is a terminal doctoral degree focused on advanced research, innovation, and leadership in the design, development, and ethical application of intelligent systems. The program prepares scholars and professionals to conduct original research in areas such as machine learning, deep learning, neural networks, natural language processing, computer vision, and responsible AI.
Most Ph.D. in Artificial Intelligence programs are designed to be completed in three to five years, depending on the student’s academic background, research focus, and dissertation progress. The program typically includes advanced coursework, comprehensive examinations, original research, and the completion and defense of a doctoral dissertation.
Yes, many universities offer Ph.D. programs in Artificial Intelligence online. These programs are designed to accommodate working professionals and offer flexibility in completing coursework and research requirements remotely.
A Ph.D. in Artificial Intelligence prepares graduates for advanced leadership, research, and academic roles where deep technical expertise and strategic thinking are required. Common career paths include AI research scientist, machine learning architect, chief AI officer, data science director, AI ethics or governance advisor, and university faculty.
A Ph.D. in AI is designed for professionals and scholars who want to move beyond application and into innovation, leadership, and original research. Ideal candidates include individuals with backgrounds in computer science, data science, engineering, information technology, mathematics, or related fields who are motivated to solve complex problems using artificial intelligence.
To earn a Ph.D. in Artificial Intelligence, students must complete an accredited doctoral program that includes advanced coursework, original research, and a dissertation. Most programs require a relevant master’s degree, strong preparation in computer science, data science, mathematics, or engineering, and a formal application with academic credentials.
A Ph.D. in Artificial Intelligence is worth it for individuals seeking long-term leadership, influence, and impact in the AI field. While it requires significant time and intellectual investment, the degree opens doors to senior-level roles, higher earning potential, academic careers, and positions of authority in AI research, strategy, ethics, and policy.
Faculty Experts
Learn more about the professors you will interact with in the Department of Artificial Intelligence.
Dr. Michael A Grabinski
Dr. David Somana
Dr. Christian Youngblood
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