Rhode Island may be small, but it’s home to big opportunities in artificial intelligence education and research. With institutions like Brown University and the University of Rhode Island leading innovation in machine learning, data science, and robotics, students can access high-quality AI programs in a tight-knit, coastal academic environment.
Why Study Artificial Intelligence in Rhode Island
Rhode Island offers a compact yet impactful setting for students interested in artificial intelligence and emerging technologies.
- Academic Excellence – Brown University ranks among the top U.S. research institutions with strong AI, computer science, and interdisciplinary programs.
- Growing Tech and Innovation Economy – Providence and surrounding areas support startups, healthcare systems, and maritime industries applying AI in creative ways.
- Research Opportunities – Students can work on cutting-edge projects in fields like robotics, cybersecurity, and natural language processing at research-focused institutions.
- Collaborative Ecosystem – Rhode Island’s size supports close-knit collaboration between academia, government, and business, creating unique learning and internship pathways.
- Cultural and Coastal Appeal – With historic cities, oceanfront living, and proximity to Boston and New York, Rhode Island offers a vibrant and connected student experience.
Some of the Top Artificial Intelligence Schools in Rhode Island
These leading institutions in Rhode Island offer strong programs in AI and related fields through computer science, data analytics, and engineering departments.
Bryant University – Graduate Programs
Master of Science in Applied Artificial Intelligence
Bryant University’s online Master of Science in Applied Artificial Intelligence is a flexible, fully asynchronous graduate program designed to prepare professionals to strategically integrate AI into a wide range of industries. The program emphasizes practical application and leadership in AI deployment and innovation.
- Students complete 10 courses (30 credits), including foundational topics such as AI ethics, data visualization, machine learning, and data management.
- Learners can specialize in either Business Analytics or Health Informatics, with courses tailored to AI’s use in business strategy or healthcare systems.
- The self-paced structure and multiple yearly start terms allow students to complete the program in 12 to 24 months, balancing coursework with personal and professional obligations.
Master of Science in Healthcare Informatics and AI
Bryant University offers a Master of Science in Healthcare Informatics and Artificial Intelligence that blends healthcare fundamentals with AI and IT skills to address the evolving demands of the healthcare industry.
- The 30-credit program includes eight required courses and two electives, delivered through in-person and hybrid formats.
- Students explore topics such as population health, healthcare law and ethics, electronic health records, and data visualization.
- A capstone project or internship provides practical experience using real-world healthcare data to tackle industry challenges.
- Designed for completion in 12 to 18 months, the program emphasizes critical thinking, interdisciplinary collaboration, and applied data skills.
Graduate Certificate in Applied Artificial Intelligence
Bryant University’s Graduate Certificate in Applied Artificial Intelligence is a fully online program designed to provide professionals with foundational AI knowledge and practical skills for applying AI across business and technology contexts.
- The certificate consists of four courses (12 credits) and a 1-credit orientation course, all delivered asynchronously in 10-week terms.
- Core topics include AI fundamentals, AI ethics and society, and business applications of AI, with elective options in data visualization, machine learning, data management, and more.
- Credits from this program may be applied toward Bryant’s MS in Applied AI, provided a grade of “B” or higher is earned.
About the University
Bryant University is a private institution located in Smithfield, Rhode Island. Known for its focus on business and leadership education, Bryant offers professionally aligned graduate programs with a strong emphasis on applied learning and real-world relevance.
Brown University – School of Professional Studies
Applied AI & Data Science
Brown University’s Applied AI & Data Science program is a 12-week, self-paced executive education course designed for professionals across industries looking to build and deploy AI and data science models for real-world problem solving.
- The curriculum blends theoretical foundations with practical applications, including hands-on labs and monthly live master classes.
- Topics covered include data preparation and analysis, machine learning, deep learning, generative AI, and model evaluation.
- Participants engage in industry-relevant projects and receive a certificate of completion upon successfully finishing the program.
About the University
Brown University is a private Ivy League institution located in Providence, Rhode Island. It is known for its flexible curriculum, emphasis on interdisciplinary learning, and strong commitment to research and innovation.
University of Rhode Island – College of Business
Bachelor of Science in Business Analytics and Artificial Intelligence
The University of Rhode Island offers a Bachelor of Science in Business Analytics and Artificial Intelligence that prepares students to excel in data-driven environments. This interdisciplinary program combines business education with advanced analytical and AI competencies.
- Students gain expertise in business analytics tools and methodologies, with an emphasis on interpreting data to inform strategic decision-making.
- The curriculum is designed to build proficiency in the application of AI within business contexts, supporting future-oriented organizational strategies.
- Graduates are equipped to work in sectors that prioritize innovation and data-centric operations.
About the University
The University of Rhode Island is a public research university located in Kingston, Rhode Island. It serves as the state’s flagship institution and is known for its coastal campus and strong programs in science, engineering, and business.
Rhode Island College – Department of Computer Science and Information Systems
Bachelor of Science in Artificial Intelligence
Rhode Island College offers a Bachelor of Science in Artificial Intelligence designed to prepare students for a wide range of AI-driven careers across sectors like healthcare, finance, and manufacturing.
- The program emphasizes practical, hands-on training in areas such as machine learning, computer vision, natural language processing, autonomous systems, and robotics.
- Students learn to design, implement, and ethically evaluate machine learning models in real-world applications.
- Courses are informed by both technical and business considerations, with the goal of producing graduates capable of integrating AI into organizational contexts.
- The program is supported by the Institute for Cybersecurity & Emerging Technologies, which offers access to research opportunities, advanced facilities, and faculty with policy expertise.
About the University
Rhode Island College is a public institution located in Providence, Rhode Island. It combines a traditional liberal arts education with career-focused programs and serves as a hub for regional workforce development in technology and emerging fields.
AI Scholarships and Financial Aid in Rhode Island
Rhode Island 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
- Rhode Island State Grant Program
Provides need-based grants to eligible Rhode Island residents attending in-state colleges or universities. - Rhode Island Academic Promise Scholarship
Offers financial assistance to high-achieving students with significant financial need, supporting their pursuit of higher education within the state.
University-Specific Scholarships
Brown University
- Computer Science Master’s Scholarships
Offers merit-based, full-tuition scholarships aimed at supporting diversity and inclusion within the computer science master’s program. - Graduate Fellowships, Scholarships, and Grants
Provides various funding opportunities for graduate students, including fellowships and grants to support research and academic pursuits.
University of Rhode Island (URI)
- Computer Science Department Scholarships
Offers scholarships such as the Petrocelli Computer Science Endowed Scholarship and the Dr. Frank M. Carrano Endowed Scholarship, supporting students majoring in computer science. - IGT Scholarships for Women in Computer Science
A four-year scholarship program aimed at increasing the number of women majoring in computer science, providing financial support and professional development opportunities.
Bryant University
- PwC AI in Accounting Fellowship
Funded by a $1.5 million investment from PwC, this fellowship offers undergraduate students experiential learning opportunities to explore the transformative impact of artificial intelligence on the accounting profession. Fellows engage in research, internships, and professional development activities that blend traditional accounting principles with AI-driven tools and platforms. - STEM Scholars Program
Supported by a $650,000 grant from the National Science Foundation, this program provides scholarships and programming to remove barriers to success in STEM education for academically talented students with demonstrated financial need, particularly women, minorities, and low-income students. - AI Lab Scholarships and Grants
Bryant’s AI Lab offers interdisciplinary collaboration opportunities, bringing together students from various academic disciplines to work on AI projects. Scholarships and grants are available to help students cover the costs associated with participating in AI projects and research.
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 Rhode Island
Though small, Rhode Island’s tech and research ecosystem provides meaningful AI career and networking opportunities—especially in health tech, cybersecurity, and academia.
- AI Career Outcomes in Rhode Island – Common roles include machine learning engineer, data analyst, AI researcher, and software developer, often in research labs or healthcare settings.
- Key Employers – Notable organizations include Lifespan Health, CVS Health (headquartered in Woonsocket), Raytheon Technologies, and Brown’s and URI’s research centers.
- AI Certifications and Microcredentials – Supplement your studies with in-demand online credentials like:
- University Labs and Research Hubs – Brown’s AI Research Initiative and URI’s AI and Data Science labs give students exposure to real-world projects.
- Local Networks and Resources – Rhode Island’s Innovation Campus initiative and groups like Tech Collective support workforce development and tech community engagement across the state.
What to Look for In an AI Program in Rhode Island
Because AI spans multiple disciplines, programs in Rhode Island may be housed within computer science, data science, or even business and engineering schools. It’s important to choose a program that fits both your academic interests and long-term goals.
Consider the following:
- Core Curriculum – Look for courses in algorithms, machine learning, programming (e.g., Python), robotics, statistics, and AI ethics. Opportunities for hands-on projects or research are a plus.
- Types of AI Degrees and Certificates:
- Certificates and minors work well for students in adjacent fields like business or engineering who want AI exposure.
- A bachelor of science in artificial intelligence prepares students for careers in software development, data analysis, or graduate study.
- Master’s degrees often offer flexibility and specialization, from data science to intelligent systems.
- A PhD in artificial intelligence suits students interested in conducting original research or pursuing academic and leadership roles in AI innovation.
- Certificates and minors work well for students in adjacent fields like business or engineering who want AI exposure.
- Program Format – Rhode Island schools offer a mix of on-campus and online options, especially for graduate or certificate programs.
- Access to Labs and Internships – Look for programs with ties to research labs, innovation hubs, or local employers for applied experience.
- Career Services and Advising – Institutions like Brown and URI offer strong career placement services and connections to industry partners.
FAQs About Studying AI in Rhode Island
Is Rhode Island a good place to study AI?
Yes. Though small, Rhode Island has strong academic institutions and access to research, innovation hubs, and tech-adjacent industries like healthcare and defense.
Can I study AI without a computer science background?
At the undergraduate level, programs typically include foundational math and programming courses. Graduate programs may expect a technical background, but some offer bridge coursework or flexible admissions pathways.
Are there online or part-time AI programs in Rhode Island?
Yes. Some institutions offer online courses and flexible programs in AI-related disciplines such as data science or analytics.
Which industries in Rhode Island are adopting AI?
Healthcare, cybersecurity, education, and finance are among the state’s top sectors exploring AI.
What types of AI degrees are available in Rhode Island?
You can pursue AI-focused education at multiple levels. Undergraduate students might major in computer science with AI electives or minors. Graduate options include master’s and doctoral programs in data science, machine learning, or interdisciplinary fields that incorporate AI.