Maryland is a national leader in cybersecurity, biomedical research, and defense technology—fields where artificial intelligence (AI) plays a growing role. With proximity to Washington D.C., top-ranked universities, and a robust innovation economy, Maryland offers strong academic and professional pathways for students pursuing AI degree programs.
Why Study Artificial Intelligence in Maryland
Maryland offers a powerful combination of academic resources, federal research partnerships, and tech-sector employment—making it one of the most strategic states to pursue an AI education.
- Proximity to D.C. and Federal Agencies: Maryland’s location near Washington D.C. offers unparalleled access to AI applications in defense, intelligence, and public health through agencies like NIH, NSA, and NASA Goddard.
- AI in Cybersecurity and Biotech: Maryland is a hub for cybersecurity, bioinformatics, and medical imaging—industries actively integrating AI for threat detection and data analysis.
- Top-Tier Research Universities: Institutions like the University of Maryland, Johns Hopkins University, and UMBC are conducting cutting-edge AI research in computer vision, robotics, and machine learning.
- Innovation and Startup Ecosystem: The I-270 tech corridor and organizations like Maryland Innovation Center support AI startups and offer students pathways to entrepreneurship and mentorship.
- High Quality of Life and Career Access: Maryland combines strong public transportation, cultural vibrancy, and high average tech salaries, offering students both lifestyle and job market advantages.
Some of the Top Artificial Intelligence Schools in Maryland
Maryland is home to prestigious universities and research hubs with deep expertise in AI, data science, and engineering. The following schools represent some of the top options for students interested in artificial intelligence education in the state:
Johns Hopkins University, Whiting School of Engineering
Master of Science in Artificial Intelligence
Johns Hopkins University offers a fully online Master of Science in Artificial Intelligence through its Engineering for Professionals division. Developed with insights from the university’s Applied Physics Laboratory, the program is designed for engineers seeking to advance their expertise in AI and apply it to real-world systems and processes.
Students complete a rigorous curriculum focused on both theoretical and practical applications across key AI domains such as:
- Machine learning
- Natural language processing
- Robotics
- Image processing
- Expert systems
The program allows for a high degree of customization, enabling students to select courses aligned with their interests and career goals. Faculty include experienced researchers and professionals actively working in AI fields. A graduate certificate option is also available.
About the University
Johns Hopkins University is a private research university located in Baltimore, Maryland. It is widely recognized for its pioneering research and strong focus on applied science and engineering education.
University of Maryland, A. James Clark School of Engineering
Engineering Artificial Intelligence
The University of Maryland’s Engineering Artificial Intelligence (Engineering AI) program offers both a Master of Engineering (30 credits) and a Graduate Certificate (12 credits), available on campus or online. Designed for STEM professionals, the program combines fundamentals in engineering, statistical inference, and machine learning with applied specializations in areas such as:
- Generative AI
- Robotic Intelligence
- Cloud Computing
- Deep Learning
- Ethical and Sustainable AI
- Large Language Models
Students can tailor their curriculum to align with interests in fields including bioengineering, electrical and computer engineering, software engineering, and systems engineering. The master’s degree requires six core courses and four technical electives, while the certificate includes four specified foundational courses. The program is structured for working professionals and does not require a thesis.
Graduates are prepared for roles in embedded systems, automotive and industrial engineering, software and data engineering, communications, and medical signal processing.
About the University
The University of Maryland is a public research university located in College Park. It is the flagship institution of the University System of Maryland and is recognized for its strong emphasis on research, innovation, and engineering education.
University of Maryland, College of Computer, Mathematical, and Natural Sciences
Master of Science in Applied Machine Learning
The University of Maryland offers a Master of Science in Applied Machine Learning through its Science Academy. This 30-credit, non-thesis program emphasizes practical machine learning applications and is designed to accommodate working professionals, with evening, in-person classes held at the College Park campus.
Students engage in technical coursework covering areas such as:
- Deep learning
- Optimization
- Big data analysis
- Signal and image understanding
- Applications in computer vision, NLP, robotics, and data science
The curriculum also reinforces foundations in mathematics, statistics, and programming, with a strong focus on real-world problem-solving. The program is intended to prepare graduates for roles in fields like finance, marketing, telecommunications, engineering, and information technology. Research opportunities are not part of the program’s structure.
About the University
The University of Maryland is a major public research institution located in College Park. It is known for its strong STEM programs and proximity to the Washington, D.C. tech and government corridor.
University of Maryland Global Campus
Bachelor of Science in Artificial Intelligence
Launching in Fall 2025, UMGC’s fully online Bachelor of Science in Artificial Intelligence is designed to prepare students for a wide range of careers in the rapidly evolving AI landscape. The program features two specialized tracks:
- AI Applications Track: Focuses on strategic implementation and ethical use of AI tools across industries. Prepares students for roles like AI product manager or AI ethics specialist.
- AI Developer Track: Emphasizes the technical development of AI systems, covering machine learning, data science, and generative AI techniques. Suitable for careers such as AI engineer or computer vision specialist.
Coursework across both tracks covers topics like Python programming, deep learning, robotic process automation, chatbot design, and ethical AI. Students gain experience with tools such as AWS, Tableau, SQL, IBM Watson, and platforms like ChatGPT and Google Gemini. Assignments are project-based and aligned with industry demands.
UMGC also offers an Undergraduate Certificate in AI Foundations for students interested in exploring the field before committing to the full degree.
About the University
University of Maryland Global Campus is a public university that focuses on serving adult learners and military-affiliated students through flexible, career-relevant online education. It is part of the University System of Maryland and is headquartered in Adelphi, Maryland.
AI Scholarships and Financial Aid in Maryland
Students pursuing AI and related tech degrees in Maryland have access to a variety of scholarship and financial aid opportunities:
- Howard P. Rawlings Educational Assistance Grant – A need-based grant for Maryland residents attending eligible institutions. Awards range up to $3,000 annually.
- Senatorial Scholarship – Offered to Maryland residents by their state senators. Awards range from $400 to $13,689 per year, based on financial need and academic merit.
- 2+2 Transfer Scholarship – Designed for students transferring from a Maryland community college to a four-year institution. Awards up to $2,000 annually for students pursuing STEM fields, including computer science.
- University of Maryland Computer Science Scholarships – The Department of Computer Science at UMD offers various scholarships, such as the John D. Gannon Scholarship and the Guy Wassertzug/Infostructures, Inc. Scholarship, for outstanding undergraduates in computer science.
- UMBC Center for Women in Technology (CWIT) Scholars Program – Provides merit-based scholarships and support for undergraduates majoring in computer science, computer engineering, or information systems.
- AFCEA Central Maryland STEM Scholarships – Offers merit-based scholarships to high school seniors and college students pursuing STEM degrees, including computer science and engineering.
To maximize financial aid eligibility, don’t forget to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).
AI Career Pathways, Certifications, and Resources in Maryland
Maryland is one of the most dynamic states for AI career growth, thanks to its proximity to federal agencies, research centers, and a thriving private tech sector. Students benefit from internships, full-time jobs, and networking in AI-heavy industries.
- AI Career Outcomes in Maryland – Common roles include AI engineer, data scientist, NLP specialist, and cybersecurity analyst, with opportunities in government, biotech, and defense.
- Top Employers and Labs – Organizations like Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Lab, Northrop Grumman, Booz Allen Hamilton, and NIH actively hire AI talent. The National Security Agency (NSA) and NASA Goddard Space Flight Center also drive AI innovation.
- AI Certifications and Microcredentials – Earning credentials like the AWS Certified Machine Learning – Specialty or Google Professional Machine Learning Engineer helps students demonstrate applied skills in machine learning and cloud platforms.
- Innovation Ecosystems – Maryland supports startups and research through hubs like the Maryland Innovation Center, bwtech@UMBC, and the University of Maryland Discovery District.
- Professional Communities – Students can network via organizations like Data Works MD and AI-specific events throughout the D.C.–Baltimore corridor.
What to Look for In an AI Program in Maryland
Maryland offers a broad spectrum of AI-related programs, often embedded in departments of computer science, engineering, or data science. When exploring your options, it’s important to evaluate how each program aligns with your career goals.
Consider the following:
- Program Focus and Course Offerings – AI-related degrees may be labeled as computer science, informatics, or engineering. Look for coursework in machine learning, robotics, data mining, and AI ethics to ensure a strong foundation.
- Types of AI Degrees and Certificates:
- Short-term certificates and bootcamps are available for professionals looking to sharpen specific technical skills.
- A BS in AI equips students with foundational knowledge in algorithms, data structures, and intelligent systems.
- Master’s degrees offer specialized training in applied AI, often with access to research labs and internships.
- Doctoral programs in AI are ideal for students pursuing research, academic careers, or leadership roles in AI development.
- Short-term certificates and bootcamps are available for professionals looking to sharpen specific technical skills.
- Flexibility and Delivery Mode – Maryland schools offer a mix of full-time, part-time, and online options—particularly valuable for working students and professionals.
- Faculty Research and Institutional Strengths – Look for AI labs or faculty research groups working in your areas of interest, such as cybersecurity, NLP, or medical informatics.
- Career Support and Employer Partnerships – Programs connected to D.C.-area employers and innovation centers can offer valuable internships, job placement services, and hands-on projects.
FAQs About Studying AI in Maryland
Is Maryland a strong state for launching a career in AI?
Yes. With its proximity to federal agencies, robust university research, and high demand for AI talent in sectors like cybersecurity and healthcare, Maryland is one of the best-positioned states for AI careers.
Do I need a background in coding to start an AI degree?
Not necessarily. Many undergraduate programs begin with introductory programming courses. Graduate programs typically expect some experience in computer science, math, or data analysis.
Are there online or hybrid AI programs in Maryland?
Yes. Several universities—including UMBC and University of Maryland Global Campus—offer flexible online or hybrid formats, especially for working adults and nontraditional students.
What industries in Maryland are applying AI?
AI is widely used in Maryland’s defense sector, federal contracting, healthcare systems, and biotech research—particularly around the Baltimore–Washington corridor.