Master of Science in Generative AI

Format: Online

 

Launch Term: Spring 2026

Take the lead in shaping the future of artificial intelligence.

The Master of Science in Generative AI at the CUNY School of Professional Studies is one of the first graduate programs in the U.S. dedicated exclusively to generative artificial intelligence. Designed for professionals with a background in data science, computer science, or related STEM fields, this fully online master’s degree prepares students to design, build, and deploy ethical, real-world AI solutions.

Whether you're seeking a career in machine learning, natural language processing, or AI strategy, this program delivers the in-demand skills to succeed in a rapidly growing field.

Program At-a-Glance

  • 100% online, flexible for working professionals
  • 30-credit hour graduate program
  • Hands-on coursework in LLMs, NLP, prompt engineering, and AI model development
  • Faculty with deep expertise in AI research and industry application
  • Includes capstone project focused on solving real-world problems using generative AI

What Is Generative AI?

Generative AI refers to artificial intelligence models that create original content—such as text, images, audio, and code—based on training data. This includes tools like ChatGPT, DALL·E, and Gemini, and is used across industries to improve automation, personalization, and decision-making.

Graduates of this program will learn to:

  • Build and fine-tune large language models (LLMs)
  • Apply natural language generation and retrieval-augmented generation (RAG)
  • Design effective prompts, APIs, and agents using LangChain and vector databases
  • Evaluate AI for fairness, interpretability, and ethical alignment
  • Communicate AI outcomes to technical and non-technical audiences

Career Opportunities in Generative AI

According to LinkedIn and McKinsey, jobs in AI and machine learning are growing faster than almost any other tech field. Roles for professionals with expertise in generative AI include:

  • Generative AI Engineer
  • AI Product Manager
  • Prompt Engineer
  • Natural Language Processing (NLP) Scientist
  • Applied Machine Learning Researcher
  • AI Solutions Architect

According to recent data, AI-related roles command up to 77% higher salaries than comparable tech positions and are growing faster than nearly any other job category.

Sample Courses

  • Introduction to Generative AI
  • Large Language Models & MoE Architectures
  • Prompt Engineering and LangChain
  • Transformers and State-Based Models
  • Vector Datasases and RAG Systems
  • Health and Social Applications of AI
  • Intelligent Agents and Responsible AI
  • Capstone in Generative AI

View full curriculum.

Admissions Criteria

  • Applicants must hold a bachelor’s or graduate degree in: Computer science, data science, engineering, or related fields
  • Candidates with strong quantitative backgrounds (math, physics, etc.) are also welcome
  • Prior coursework in machine learning is strongly recommended
  • Minimum 3.0 GPA
Apply Now

Recent news about Master of Science in Generative AI

Two-Thirds of Jobs Will Be Impacted by AI

May 02, 2025

Computerworld

CUNY SPS Academic Director Dr. Arthur O'Connor shares his insight in a recent Computerworld article, examining how nearly two-thirds of U.S. jobs are expected to be impacted by artificial intelligence. The piece explores how AI will shift—not eliminate—roles across industries, emphasizing the growing need for workforce adaptability and digital upskilling to meet the demands of a rapidly evolving labor market.

How LLMs Are Transforming Business Processes with Arthur O’Connor

March 07, 2025

Techstrong.TV

In a recent Techstrong.ai interview, Dr. Arthur O'Connor, Academic Director of the MS in Data Science and BS in Information Science at CUNY SPS and author of “Organizing for Generative AI and the Productivity Revolution," delves into how advanced reasoning capabilities being added to large language models (LLMs) will profoundly alter business processes as costs continue to rapidly decline.

DeepSeek’s R1: A Useful Reminder

February 20, 2025

Unite AI

In his latest piece published on Unite.AI, Dr. Arthur O'Connor, Department Head of Data and Information Science Degrees at CUNY SPS, reflects on the implications of China's DeepSeek R1 model. He emphasizes that the advancements in generative AI now encompass cognitive reasoning, urging a reevaluation of how these technologies are changing humanity.

Too Much Focus On AI Has Taken The ‘Social’ Out Of Social Media

February 17, 2025

Forbes Magazine

In a recent Forbes article, Dr. Arthur O'Connor, Academic Director of the MS in Data Science and BS in Information Science at CUNY SPS, examines how AI's dominance is eroding the 'social' essence of social media platforms. He highlights that AI-driven algorithms have contributed to increased isolation. Dr. O'Connor calls for a reevaluation of technology's role in our lives, emphasizing the need to preserve authentic connections in the digital age.
Organizing for Generative AI an the Productivity Revolution

Data Science Program Head Publishes Timely Book About AI in the Workplace

February 11, 2025

Dr. Arthur O'Connor wrote Organizing for Generative AI and the Productivity Revolution.