Master of Science in Generative AI

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Application Deadlines
  • Fall 2026 Extended Priority Deadline: April 23, 2026
  • Fall 2026 Regular Extended Deadline: June 11, 2026

Please note there is no application fee for graduate applications submitted by the Priority Deadline.

Take the lead in transforming organizations through generative AI

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, scheduled for launch in the January 2026 Spring semester.

In this new applied degree program developed by leading practitioners, students will develop an understanding of the current AI solution ecosystem and learn how to apply these technologies to create organizational value.

The program is designed for the tech-savvy executive, business transformation officer, or decision-maker who seeks to develop a broader and deeper understanding of how to solve real-world problems and automate organizational processes – beyond attaining AI literacy or becoming an AI power user – while earning a graduate academic credential rather than a certificate from a technical training program. 

Program At-a-Glance

  • 100% online, flexible for working professionals
  • 30-credit hour graduate program
  • Hands-on coursework in Machine Learning, Neural Networks, Large Language Models, prompt engineering, fine-tuning, in-content learning, retrieval-augmented generation and agentic AI
  • 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 Open AI’s ChatGPT, Microsoft Copilot, Claude from Anthropic, and Google Gemini, which are used to automate processes, enhance personalization, and improve organizational performance.

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:

  • Business Transformation Officer
  • Program Manager
  • Product Manager
  • Solution Architect
  • Business Process Engineer
  • Prompt Engineer

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

  • Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution
  • Applicants must pass a free, online test on statistics and math skills hosted on a web site that features instructional aides to help candidates prepare
  • Candidates with strong technical and/or quantitative backgrounds (math, physics, etc.) are encouraged to apply
  • Minimum 3.0 GPA
     

Bridge Tutorial

All applicants are required to take the Bridge Tutorial, a free, self-paced, online mini-course to assess applicants’ skills required to succeed in the program.  

The course is designed so that qualified/experienced applicants can quickly/easily demonstrate their competencies by answering a set of multi-choice questions. However, those applicants who don’t pass on the first try are given a second chance, receiving feedback on their responses as well as instructional aides and tutorials on the covered subject matter. Given that tutorials on the subject matter are provided, and the assessment is not timed, it’s essentially an “open book” test. 

For questions, please email datascience@sps.cuny.edu

Application Deadlines

  • Fall 2026 Extended Priority Deadline: April 23, 2026
  • Fall 2026 Regular Extended Deadline: June 11, 2026
Apply Now

Recent news about Master of Science in Generative AI

Top Data Science Programs Integrating AI, ML, Data Engineering, and Generative AI

June 25, 2026

Analytics Insight

The Master of Science in Generative AI at CUNY SPS was named as one of the "Top 7 Data Science Programs Integrating AI, ML, Data Engineering and Generative AI" by Analytics Insight. Among the US institutions mentioned, CUNY SPS ranks alongside Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), Carnegie Mellon (CMU), Stanford, and UC Berkeley. The article also recognizes CUNY SPS as "among the first degree programs dedicated specifically to generative AI technologies."

CUNY AI Innovation Fund Grants $3 Million to 113 Campus-led Initiatives

May 21, 2026

The Knight News

The MS in Generative AI at CUNY SPS is mentioned in The Knight News article, which details the University's $3 million grant program funded by the state government. The AI Innovation Fund is a one-year University-wide grant program, funded as part of Governor Hochul’s efforts to position New York as a leader in artificial intelligence.

7 Signs Your Data Isn’t Ready for AI

May 19, 2026

CIO

CUNY SPS Academic Director of Data Science, Generative AI, and Information Science, Arthur O'Connor, is quoted in this CIO article about the difficulties of utilizing AI in data systems that have not been established or updated for AI compatibility. As Dr. O'Connor explains, “While data users want completely accurate, clean, and well-managed data, the individual data owners typically don’t have the budget, financial incentive, or organizational authority to ensure a high level of quality and transparency.”
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CUNY SPS’ Newly Launched Graduate Programs Meet Needs of Growing Industries

March 30, 2026

A look at CUNY SPS' new master's programs in generative AI and early childhood policy and leadership, which were launched this spring to prepare students for two rapidly growing and impactful fields.

CUNY School of Professional Studies Masters in Generative AI

March 20, 2026

The Knight News

The master's program in generative AI at CUNY SPS is featured in this The Knight News article. The write-up focuses on the degree program's practical and yet cutting-edge approach. Academic Director Dr. Arthur O'Connor is quoted as saying, “It’s an applied program designed for the tech-savvy organizational leader who seeks to develop a broader and deeper understanding of what these different platforms are, and how they can be used."