Minnesota is combining its legacy in healthcare, manufacturing, and education with a growing focus on artificial intelligence (AI). From the Twin Cities to research campuses across the state, students will find expanding opportunities to study AI and apply it to fields like health tech, finance, agriculture, and logistics.
Why Study Artificial Intelligence in Minnesota
Minnesota is home to a diverse and growing tech economy that makes it a smart choice for students interested in studying AI—especially those looking to make a real-world impact.
- AI in Health, Agriculture, and Retail: Minnesota’s strong industries—like healthcare (Mayo Clinic), agriculture, and retail (Target, Best Buy)—are integrating AI in diagnostics, automation, and data analysis.
- Top-Tier Research Universities: Schools like the University of Minnesota offer advanced AI labs and cross-disciplinary programs in computer science, biomedical engineering, and public health.
- Growing Startup and Tech Ecosystem: Minneapolis–St. Paul supports a thriving innovation economy with AI-focused startups and digital tech accelerators.
- Access to Internships and Careers: Proximity to Fortune 500 companies and mid-sized innovators gives students access to real-world projects and job opportunities.
- Affordability and Quality of Life: Minnesota combines relatively low tuition and living costs with vibrant communities, excellent public services, and natural beauty.
Some of the Top Artificial Intelligence Schools in Minnesota
Minnesota’s universities are expanding AI education through research, interdisciplinary programs, and strong industry ties. The following schools are among the top options for students pursuing AI and related degrees in the state:
University of St. Thomas – School of Engineering
Master of Science in Artificial Intelligence
The University of St. Thomas offers a flexible, STEM-approved Master of Science in Artificial Intelligence designed for working professionals and career changers. This 30-credit program combines technical depth with practical application, featuring coursework in machine learning, natural language processing, AI ethics, and more. Students have the option to attend in-person or online classes via the university’s CoFlex delivery model, though international students are required to attend in person.
Highlights of the program include:
- Real-world projects and collaboration with industry professionals
- Evening classes to accommodate full-time work schedules
- Experienced faculty with significant industry and research backgrounds
- Optional start terms in fall, spring, or summer
University of St. Thomas – College of Arts and Sciences
Master of Arts in Artificial Intelligence Leadership
The Master of Arts in Artificial Intelligence Leadership at the University of St. Thomas is designed for professionals across industries who need to understand and manage AI technologies without a technical background. Offered fully online and part-time, the 30-credit program is structured around a rotating curriculum that spans four semesters and one summer, with each term divided into two seven-week sessions.
Key features include:
- A curriculum focused on leadership, ethics, communication, and the strategic application of AI
- Courses such as “Foundations and History of Artificial Intelligence,” “AI Literacy for Leaders,” and “AI, Ethics, and Society”
- Faculty from diverse academic backgrounds, including philosophy, business, and law
- A flexible, asynchronous format tailored to working professionals
About the University
The University of St. Thomas is a private university located in St. Paul, Minnesota. Known for its strong professional programs and personalized learning environment, it supports both traditional students and working professionals seeking to advance their careers.
Minnesota State University, Mankato – Department of Computer Information Technology
Master of Science in Artificial Intelligence
Minnesota State University, Mankato offers a Master of Science in Artificial Intelligence that emphasizes both theoretical and applied aspects of AI. The 32-credit program covers essential topics such as:
- Machine learning and deep learning
- Natural language processing
- Computer vision
- Symbolic inference and automated reasoning
The curriculum also addresses the ethical, legal, and organizational implications of AI through industry-based and research projects. Students can complete the degree in approximately two years, and the program is designed to support diverse academic backgrounds through conditional admission options for those with gaps in relevant coursework.
About the University
Minnesota State University, Mankato is a public university located in Mankato, Minnesota. It is known for offering a wide range of professional and graduate programs in a student-centered environment.
Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota
Master of Science in Business Intelligence and Data Analytics
Saint Mary’s online M.S. in Business Intelligence and Data Analytics (BIDA) program gives students the opportunity to tailor their studies by specializing in Artificial Intelligence through a dedicated graduate certificate. This specialization equips students with hands-on skills in AI programming, data engineering, and deep learning, and the certificate credits can be applied toward the full BIDA degree.
The 33-credit program features a flexible online format and offers:
- A choice of graduate certificates in Artificial Intelligence, Business Analytics, or Healthcare Analytics
- Practical, application-focused coursework that includes big data, IoT, and machine learning technologies
- A curriculum aligned with the International Institute for Business Analytics (IIBA) standards
- Accreditation from the International Accreditation Council for Business Education (IACBE)
Courses are designed to help students solve real-world business problems and communicate technical insights to decision-makers. Graduates can pursue careers in roles such as AI developer, data scientist, and business intelligence architect.
About the University
Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota is a private, Lasallian Catholic institution with a strong commitment to professional and ethical development. With campuses in Minneapolis, Winona, and Rochester, the university is known for accessible, career-oriented programs that integrate practical experience with academic rigor.
AI Scholarships and Financial Aid in Minnesota
Students pursuing AI and related tech degrees in Minnesota have access to a variety of scholarship and financial aid opportunities:
- North Star Promise Scholarship Program – A last-dollar scholarship covering tuition and fees for eligible Minnesota residents attending public institutions, including tribal colleges. Applicants must have a family adjusted gross income below $80,000.
- Minnesota State University, Mankato Computer Information Science Scholarships – Offers several scholarships, including the Chuck Sherwood Computer Information Science Scholarship and the Curt Stangler/Accenture Endowed Scholarship, for students majoring in computer information science.
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 Minnesota
Minnesota’s AI career ecosystem is growing rapidly, supported by strong demand from local industries and a thriving innovation scene in the Twin Cities and beyond.
- AI Career Outcomes in Minnesota – Common roles include machine learning engineer, AI software developer, data scientist, and automation specialist. These roles are especially strong in healthcare, agriculture, retail, and logistics.
- Major Employers and Innovation Partners – Companies like Target, Medtronic, Mayo Clinic, 3M, and General Mills are incorporating AI into product development, supply chain optimization, and predictive analytics.
- AI Certifications and Microcredentials – In addition to well-known credentials like the AWS Certified Machine Learning – Specialty and Google AI, students may also consider options such as the Microsoft Azure AI Fundamentals or free programs like Elements of AI for accessible, beginner-friendly training.
- Research and Startup Communities – Minnesota’s research centers and startup incubators—including the Minnesota AI Institute, Gener8tor, and Twin Ignition Startup Garage—provide resources for students and aspiring entrepreneurs.
- Professional Networks and Tech Events – Groups like MinneAnalytics and Twin Cities AI host conferences, hackathons, and networking events that help students connect with peers and employers.
What to Look for In an AI Program in Minnesota
Minnesota’s institutions offer a variety of AI-related programs across multiple disciplines. Whether you’re looking for foundational skills or advanced research opportunities, the state’s universities provide solid options to match your goals.
Key points to consider:
- Program Focus and Structure – AI programs may be housed under computer science, data science, or engineering departments. Look for core coursework in machine learning, robotics, AI ethics, and intelligent systems.
- Types of AI Degrees and Certificates:
- Certificates and microcredentials offer fast-track training and skill development—ideal for professionals or students seeking to specialize in a particular AI domain.
- An AI undergraduate degree provides a broad foundation in algorithms, programming, and applied AI tools.
- Master’s programs often emphasize practical applications or research partnerships with local industry.
- AI-focused PhD programs are suited for students interested in conducting original research or working in academia and advanced R&D roles.
- Certificates and microcredentials offer fast-track training and skill development—ideal for professionals or students seeking to specialize in a particular AI domain.
- Delivery Format and Flexibility – Several Minnesota schools offer online or hybrid learning formats, especially at the graduate and certificate levels.
- Research and Faculty Expertise – Evaluate whether faculty are conducting research in areas aligned with your interests, such as biomedical AI, NLP, or sustainability tech.
- Internships and Employer Connections – Schools with strong ties to regional employers and innovation hubs can help students land internships and transition into AI careers.
FAQs About Studying AI in Minnesota
Is Minnesota a good state to study and work in AI?
Yes. With a strong healthcare sector, rising tech hubs, and established employers integrating AI into their operations, Minnesota offers students valuable academic and career opportunities.
Do I need prior experience in coding to enter an AI program in Minnesota?
Not necessarily. Undergraduate programs often start with foundational courses. Graduate programs may expect some technical background, but preparatory or bridge options are sometimes available.
Are there online or hybrid AI programs in Minnesota?
Yes. Schools like the University of St. Thomas offer online or hybrid options in computer science and data analytics that include AI components.
Which industries in Minnesota are most active in AI?
Healthcare (Mayo Clinic, Medtronic), retail (Target, Best Buy), agriculture, and finance are all adopting AI for predictive analytics, automation, and decision support—creating high demand for AI professionals.