Nevada Artificial Intelligence (AI) Degree Programs

By -

Nevada is fast becoming a dynamic player in artificial intelligence (AI), with active investments in smart city infrastructure, autonomous systems, and high-performance computing. Universities in the state are expanding AI-focused education and research, while tech-driven industries in Las Vegas and Reno provide promising career opportunities for students in AI and related fields.

Why Study Artificial Intelligence in Nevada

Nevada offers an exciting and practical environment for studying AI, combining tech-forward urban centers with high-impact research initiatives.

  • Smart Cities and Autonomous Systems: Las Vegas is a national leader in AI-driven smart city projects, including traffic monitoring, energy management, and public safety.
  • Academic and Research Expansion: Schools like the University of Nevada, Reno and University of Nevada, Las Vegas are investing in AI education through computer science, robotics, and data science programs.
  • Industry Engagement: Nevada’s gaming, tourism, transportation, and logistics sectors are integrating AI to enhance customer experience, operational efficiency, and analytics.
  • High-Performance Computing and Big Data: The state supports AI through infrastructure like the Nevada Research Data Center and regional partnerships in computing.
  • Entrepreneurial and Career Opportunities: Startup incubators, tech accelerators, and major employers across Reno and Las Vegas provide AI students with internship and job opportunities.

Some of the Top Artificial Intelligence Schools in Nevada

Nevada’s public universities are leading the charge in AI education, with programs that integrate machine learning, robotics, and high-performance computing. Here are two of the top institutions offering AI-related degrees:

University of Nevada, Reno – College of Engineering

Graduate Programs in Computer Science & Engineering

The University of Nevada, Reno offers a range of graduate programs in computer science and engineering that emphasize both technical depth and interdisciplinary application. Students can pursue:

  • M.S. in Computer Science & Engineering, with thesis or coursework-only options
  • M.S. in Robotics, focusing on automation, human-robot interaction, and intelligent systems
  • M.S. in Cybersecurity, with emphasis on threat detection, cryptography, and risk management
  • Ph.D. in Computer Science & Engineering, offering advanced research training

Students with interests in AI can explore areas like computer vision, robotics, evolutionary computing, and intelligent systems. Multiple labs support this research, including the Advanced Robotics and Automation Laboratory, the Evolutionary Computing Systems Laboratory, and the Computer Vision Lab. These labs foster work in perception, autonomous behavior, multi-robot collaboration, and machine learning.

Graduate students have access to both teaching and research assistantships, with research opportunities guided by faculty with expertise in AI-related domains. The program encourages interdisciplinary collaboration and applied problem-solving, making it a strong choice for those looking to advance in intelligent and autonomous systems.

About the University

The University of Nevada, Reno is a public research university located in a high-desert environment at the edge of the Sierra Nevada. It offers strong engineering and computing programs and maintains an active research presence in intelligent technologies.

University of Nevada, Las Vegas – Howard R. Hughes College of Engineering

Master of Science in Computer Science

UNLV’s Master of Science in Computer Science offers several customizable pathways that allow students to align their studies with personal interests and career goals. The program supports both research-focused and coursework-based learning, with options that include thesis, project, integrated BS/MS, and exam tracks.

The AI and Machine Learning exam track provides a focused curriculum in topics such as machine learning, artificial intelligence, expert systems, genetic algorithms, and neural networks. This track prepares students for careers in AI development or further academic research.

Other AI-relevant tracks include:

  • Data Science and Big Data, which integrates data mining and neural networks
  • Graphics and Augmented Reality, with offerings in computer vision and image processing
  • Cyber Security, involving AI applications in threat detection and forensics

The department supports its programs with four dedicated research labs and active faculty research in AI, image processing, computational geometry, and software engineering.

About the University

The University of Nevada, Las Vegas is a public urban research university located in the heart of Las Vegas. It is known for its innovation-driven programs and commitment to interdisciplinary research and diversity.

AI Scholarships and Financial Aid in Nevada

Nevada offers a range of financial aid options for students pursuing AI and related degrees, including state-funded grants and university-specific scholarships.

Statewide Financial Aid Programs

  • Governor Guinn Millennium Scholarship
    Provides up to $10,000 in tuition assistance to eligible Nevada high school graduates attending in-state colleges or universities.
  • Silver State Opportunity Grant (SSOG)
    A need-based grant for low-income, college-ready students attending community or state colleges within the Nevada System of Higher Education.
  • Nevada Promise Scholarship
    Covers tuition and mandatory fees for up to three years at Nevada community colleges for eligible recent high school graduates.

University-Specific Scholarships

University of Nevada–Reno (UNR)

  • UNR College and Department Scholarships
    Offers various scholarships for students in specific colleges and departments, including the College of Engineering and the Department of Computer Science and Engineering.unr.edu
  • CyberCorps Scholarship for Service
    Provides funding for students pursuing cybersecurity degrees, covering tuition and offering stipends in exchange for government service after graduation.

University of Nevada–Las Vegas (UNLV)

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 Nevada

Nevada’s growing tech economy offers a supportive ecosystem for AI careers, especially in urban hubs like Las Vegas and Reno.

  • AI Career Outcomes in Nevada – Graduates pursue roles such as machine learning engineer, data scientist, robotics developer, and AI software architect across multiple industries.
  • Key Employers and Industry Integration – Companies in logistics, gaming, healthcare, and government are increasingly exploring AI for automation, analytics, and predictive modeling. Notable employers include Switch, Zappos, Caesars Entertainment, and regional hospitals.
  • AI Certifications and Microcredentials – Students can enhance their skills through offerings like AWS Certified Machine Learning – Specialty, Microsoft Azure AI Fundamentals, and free options like Elements of AI.
  • University Research and Innovation Centers – Both UNLV and UNR have labs and initiatives in areas such as autonomous systems, high-performance computing, and human-computer interaction.
  • Professional Networks and Innovation Districts – Las Vegas’s Innovation District and Reno’s startup accelerators (like StartUpNV) offer networking events, competitions, and entrepreneurial support tied to tech and AI ventures.

What to Look for In an AI Program in Nevada

Nevada’s universities integrate AI topics across computer science, engineering, and data science degrees. Students should evaluate how each program prepares them for in-demand careers in AI-driven industries.

Key factors to consider:

  • Curriculum and Course Offerings – Look for programs that feature coursework in machine learning, AI ethics, robotics, natural language processing, and data visualization.
  • Types of AI Degrees and Certificates:
    • Certificates and short-term training are ideal for professionals or undergrads seeking focused, skill-based education.
    • A bachelor’s in artificial intelligence offers foundational knowledge in algorithms, data structures, and programming for intelligent systems.
    • Master’s programs allow for deeper specialization and often provide applied learning through internships or capstone projects.
    • A PhD in artificial intelligence is geared toward those pursuing advanced research, academic careers, or AI leadership in R&D.
  • Delivery Format – While most AI programs in Nevada are in-person, hybrid and online coursework is increasingly available, especially for working professionals.
  • Faculty and Research Engagement – Programs with access to AI labs, funded projects, and interdisciplinary research provide more hands-on experience.
  • Regional and Industry Connections – Programs in Las Vegas and Reno often benefit from proximity to employers in gaming, healthcare, logistics, and data services.

FAQs About Studying AI in Nevada

Is Nevada a good place to study and launch a career in AI?
Yes. Nevada’s smart city projects, expanding tech scene, and applications in industries like gaming, healthcare, and logistics make it a strong option for aspiring AI professionals.

Do I need a computer science background to study AI in Nevada?
Not necessarily. Most undergraduate programs begin with core computer science coursework. Graduate programs often require prior technical experience, but some offer preparatory pathways.

Can I get involved in AI research as a student?
Absolutely. Both UNLV and UNR have active research labs and projects focused on AI, robotics, cybersecurity, and data science. Undergraduates may have opportunities to assist with research.

What career paths are available for AI graduates in Nevada?
Common roles include data analyst, AI engineer, automation specialist, and robotics programmer. Sectors like gaming, hospitality tech, transportation, and public safety are actively exploring AI solutions.

Search Programs
Scroll to Top