University of the Cumberlands’ Ph.D. in Information Technology Ranked No. 6 Nationally for Best Online AI Doctorate by Learn.org

University of the Cumberlands’ Ph.D. in Information Technology has been ranked No. 6 nationally for Best Online Ph.D./Doctorate in AI Degrees for 2026 by Learn.org, a leading education and career resource. 

According to Learn.org, a trusted resource for students and career seekers since 2003, doctoral-level education in artificial intelligence (AI) remains relatively rare. University of the Cumberlands is among a select group of institutions expanding access to online Ph.D. and professional doctorate programs with a specialization in artificial intelligence and machine learning. 

Learn.org evaluated institutions nationwide to identify top programs for experienced professionals, researchers, and technical leaders seeking to deepen their expertise in AI and advanced technology systems. 

“Our review process considers tuition, accreditation, transfer flexibility, and how effectively programs prepare students to implement AI at the enterprise level,” said Anna Ohler, chief operating officer at Learn.org. “Cumberlands’ emphasis on practical systems design and strategic AI integration played a key role in its selection.” 

An Affordable and Accessible Online Doctorate 

In addition to its applied focus and strong value proposition, Cumberlands’ Ph.D. in Information Technology with a specialization in artificial intelligence and machine learning stood out for both accessibility and affordability. 

Graduate students may transfer up to 50 percent of required credits, pending approval by the Transfer Credit Evaluation department. Tuition is $549 per credit hour, and the 60-credit-hour online doctoral program includes professional research courses, specialty content courses, and a dissertation. 

Learn.org noted that the curriculum, which includes a formal specialization in artificial intelligence and machine learning, “emphasizes applied research, systems design, and the strategic use of AI technologies across organizational contexts.” 

Part of a Comprehensive AI Education Pathway 

This national recognition follows a recent announcement from University of the Cumberlands introducing two additional degree programs: a Ph.D. in Artificial Intelligence and a Bachelor of Science in Artificial Intelligence. 

With the addition of these programs, Cumberlands is now among a limited number of universities in the United States offering a comprehensive, end-to-end educational pathway in artificial intelligence, allowing students to progress from a bachelor’s degree to a master’s degree and ultimately to a doctoral degree in AI-related fields. 

Though artificial intelligence education remains a relatively new frontier in higher education, Cumberlands is already earning national recognition for its leadership in the space. As one of the few universities offering robust degree pathways in AI, Cumberlands continues to demonstrate its commitment to ethical innovation, affordability, and preparing professionals to meet evolving industry demands. Learn more about Cumberlands’ programs at https://www.ucumberlands.edu/academics.