North Dakota may be rural, but it’s home to expanding opportunities in artificial intelligence (AI) education and application. With a focus on agricultural technology, unmanned systems, and digital infrastructure, the state’s universities are aligning AI education with regional innovation priorities. For students seeking a tech-forward path in a tight-knit, affordable setting, North Dakota offers a compelling option.
Why Study Artificial Intelligence in North Dakota
Though small in population, North Dakota is a growing hub for applied AI in agriculture, automation, and geospatial systems.
- Regional Innovation in AgTech and Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) – North Dakota leads in integrating AI into precision agriculture and drone research, driven by partnerships with universities and state-funded test sites.
- Access to Emerging AI Research – Schools like North Dakota State University and the University of North Dakota participate in AI-related projects in engineering, cybersecurity, and remote sensing.
- Affordable Education and Living – Low tuition rates and a low cost of living make the state a budget-friendly choice for in-state and out-of-state students alike.
- Tight-Knit Academic Communities – Small class sizes and accessible faculty make it easier for students to engage in research and build strong academic relationships.
- State Support for Tech Growth – North Dakota is investing in broadband expansion, digital infrastructure, and innovation initiatives that support AI and STEM development.
Some of the Top Artificial Intelligence Schools in North Dakota
North Dakota’s leading public universities offer strong programs in computer science, data analytics, and engineering with growing ties to AI applications in agriculture, aerospace, and cybersecurity.
University of North Dakota – School of Electrical Engineering & Computer Science
Ph.D. in Artificial Intelligence
The University of North Dakota offers a Ph.D. in Artificial Intelligence that blends theoretical foundations with practical applications in areas such as machine learning, robotics, ethics, and autonomous systems. The program emphasizes interdisciplinary collaboration and allows students to tailor coursework and research to areas of interest across fields like healthcare, law, engineering, and more.
- Students choose from electives grouped into four areas of specialization: AI Foundations, Advanced AI Techniques, Machine Vision and Robotics, and AI Applications.
- The 90-credit curriculum includes core courses, electives, seminars, and dissertation research.
- Emphasis is placed on real-world research collaborations and mentorship from faculty across multiple disciplines.
- Graduates are prepared for careers in academia, industry, and government, with potential roles including AI researcher, engineer, data scientist, and AI ethics or policy expert.
Graduate Certificate in Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning
The University of North Dakota offers a flexible graduate certificate in Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning, available both online and on campus. The 9-credit program is designed for professionals in computer science, data science, or electrical engineering seeking to enhance their AI/ML expertise.
- Curriculum includes courses in machine learning, computational intelligence, and AI applications.
- Emphasizes both theoretical foundations and hands-on application, including the development of custom algorithms.
- Suitable for a variety of roles including data scientist, automation specialist, research scientist, and business intelligence developer.
- The online format features live, synchronous classes with real-time interaction and access to comprehensive academic support resources.
About the University
The University of North Dakota is a public research institution located in Grand Forks, North Dakota. Known for its strong emphasis on innovation and technology, UND offers robust online education options and serves as a leading center for AI education in the region.
North Dakota State University – College of Engineering
Artificial Intelligence Minor
North Dakota State University offers a minor in Artificial Intelligence designed to complement any undergraduate major. The program includes foundational coursework in mathematics and computer science, a dedicated course in artificial intelligence, and a flexible elective component.
- Provides a structured yet adaptable pathway to AI literacy for students across disciplines.
- Electives may be chosen from computer science or other departments with growing AI and machine learning offerings.
- Available both on campus and online, allowing for greater flexibility in scheduling.
About the University
North Dakota State University is a public, land-grant research institution located in Fargo. As an R1 university, NDSU is known for its commitment to student success, research excellence, and providing accessible, high-quality education across disciplines.
AI Scholarships and Financial Aid in North Dakota
North Dakota offers a variety of financial aid options for students pursuing AI and related degrees, including state-funded grants and university-specific scholarships.
Statewide Financial Aid Programs
- North Dakota Scholarship
Provides $6,000 to eligible high school graduates who meet specific academic and readiness criteria, applicable at approved in-state colleges and universities. - North Dakota State Grant
Offers need-based grants to first-time undergraduate students attending North Dakota public, private, or tribal colleges. - ND Scholars Program
Pays full tuition for academically superior North Dakota high school graduates who pursue their undergraduate education in-state. - ND Dollars for Scholars
Awards scholarships to North Dakota high school seniors and current college students.
University-Specific Scholarships
North Dakota State University (NDSU)
- Computer Science Department Scholarships
Offers various scholarships for computer science majors, including the Microsoft/Fargo Computer Science Undergraduate Scholarship and the Koenig-Dunner Endowed Scholarship. - NDSU Scholarship Application
A centralized portal where students can explore multiple scholarship opportunities.
University of North Dakota (UND)
- Scholarship Central
Allows students to apply for over 1,300 scholarships with a single application. - Garmin Scholarship
Awards $5,000 to computer science students who are sophomores, juniors, or seniors with a GPA of 3.5 or above. - MDU Resources Foundation Scholarship
Provides $500 to second-year students enrolled in engineering, business, or computer science from communities served by the MDU Resources Foundation. - UNISYS Corporation Scholarship
Awards $1,100 to computer science majors within the College of Engineering and Mines, with preference given to students with financial need.
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 North Dakota
AI careers in North Dakota are closely tied to the state’s strengths in agriculture, unmanned systems, and digital infrastructure.
- AI Career Outcomes in North Dakota – Graduates can pursue roles in data science, AI development, cybersecurity, and UAS system design, often with regional employers or research institutions.
- Key Employers – Major organizations like Appareo Systems, Northrop Grumman, UND Aerospace, and Microsoft Fargo are involved in AI-adjacent work, particularly in automation, geospatial analytics, and software development.
- AI Certifications and Microcredentials – These programs complement formal degrees:
- University and State Research – Both NDSU and UND engage in AI-related research through labs focused on software engineering, autonomous systems, and agricultural analytics.
- Regional Networks and Innovation Hubs – The Grand Forks UAS Test Site, the Northern Plains UAS Authority, and the Fargo tech community offer internships, mentorship, and startup resources for AI and STEM students.
What to Look for In an AI Program in North Dakota
AI programs in North Dakota may be listed under broader disciplines like computer science, engineering, or data analytics. Understanding how AI fits into these areas will help you choose the right path.
Here’s what to look for:
- AI-Centered Curriculum – Key topics include machine learning, Python programming, robotics, neural networks, and AI ethics. Programs may also include electives in automation, UAS, or systems modeling.
- Types of AI Degrees and Certificates:
- Certificates or minors are a great way to add AI expertise to a broader degree.
- A bachelor’s in artificial intelligence offers a solid foundation for students new to the field and can lead to immediate entry-level roles or graduate study.
- Master’s degrees offer specialization for career changers or those advancing in AI-relevant roles.
- AI-focused PhD programs support long-term research and academic leadership in AI, particularly useful in technical R&D and university settings.
- Certificates or minors are a great way to add AI expertise to a broader degree.
- Flexible Formats and Locations – Look for hybrid or online options, especially if you’re balancing work or living in remote parts of the state.
- Applied Research and Lab Access – UND and NDSU both offer opportunities to work on real-world AI projects in areas like geospatial data or UAS systems.
- Career and Industry Alignment – Programs with ties to North Dakota’s tech sectors, particularly aerospace and agriculture, provide students with practical career pipelines.
FAQs About Studying AI in North Dakota
Is North Dakota a good place to study AI?
Yes. While rural, North Dakota offers growing opportunities in AI through its universities and regional industries—particularly in precision agriculture, autonomous systems, and cybersecurity.
Do AI programs in North Dakota require a strong tech background?
Some foundational knowledge in programming or math is helpful, especially for undergraduate and graduate degrees. However, many programs include introductory courses to help students build those skills.
Are online or hybrid AI programs available in North Dakota?
Yes. Both NDSU and UND offer online and hybrid options in computer science, data analytics, and engineering—many of which include AI-relevant coursework.
What kinds of companies hire AI graduates in North Dakota?
Employers include aerospace firms, UAS tech developers, agriculture companies, and data science teams in healthcare and software. Startups and state-supported initiatives also provide early-career opportunities.