Tennessee Artificial Intelligence (AI) Degree Programs

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Tennessee offers a range of AI-related educational opportunities, particularly through its major research universities and growing tech economy. With strong programs in computer science, engineering, and data analytics, the state prepares students for careers in artificial intelligence, machine learning, and intelligent systems.

Why Study Artificial Intelligence in Tennessee

Tennessee blends academic excellence with growing tech demand across its major cities, offering students a dynamic place to launch an AI-focused education and career.

  • Strong Research Institutions – Schools like Vanderbilt, UT Knoxville, and Tennessee Tech lead in fields such as machine learning, robotics, and health informatics.
  • Expanding Tech Industry – Nashville, Knoxville, and Chattanooga are attracting startups and tech companies investing in automation, logistics, and predictive analytics.
  • Healthcare and Manufacturing Applications – Tennessee’s robust healthcare sector and advanced manufacturing base are integrating AI for innovation and efficiency.
  • Cost of Living Advantage – Affordable tuition and living expenses make Tennessee a smart choice for in-state and regional students.
  • Supportive Innovation Hubs – Organizations like Launch Tennessee and the Chattanooga Innovation District promote tech entrepreneurship and collaboration between academia and industry.

Some of the Top Artificial Intelligence Schools in Tennessee

These institutions offer standout programs in artificial intelligence and related disciplines like computer science, data science, and engineering.

Vanderbilt University – School of Engineering

Computer Science Graduate Degree Programs

Vanderbilt University offers both Master of Science (thesis and non-thesis) and Ph.D. programs in Computer Science, with the option to pursue the M.S. online or on campus. The curriculum supports in-depth exploration of key AI-relevant areas through coursework and research.

  • Research opportunities span artificial intelligence, intelligent systems, robotics, medical image computing, and machine learning.
  • The program emphasizes interdisciplinary work in AI-related domains such as healthcare, security, energy, and entertainment.
  • State-of-the-art labs and collaborative projects enhance hands-on learning and practical experience.
  • The online M.S. program mirrors the academic rigor of the residential track, though formats may not be combined.

About the University

Vanderbilt University is a private research institution located in Nashville, Tennessee. Known for its collaborative research environment and commitment to academic excellence, Vanderbilt offers students access to cutting-edge facilities and interdisciplinary opportunities.

University of Tennessee, Knoxville – College of Emerging and Collaborative Studies

Applied Artificial Intelligence (B.S.)

The Bachelor of Science in Applied Artificial Intelligence at UT Knoxville focuses on real-world AI applications across disciplines. Students in this program develop foundational AI knowledge alongside critical skills for deploying AI ethically and effectively in diverse professional settings.

  • The curriculum emphasizes practical learning through paid internships, project-based experiences, and industry collaboration.
  • Core courses include topics like AI fundamentals, ethics and legal frameworks, natural language programming, and human-AI interaction.
  • The program is designed to equip students for careers in roles such as data analyst, NLP engineer, AI architect, and AI consultant.

Applied Artificial Intelligence Certificate

The Applied Artificial Intelligence Certificate at UT Knoxville provides students with a foundational understanding of core AI concepts and practical skills applicable to a wide range of industries. This 12-credit undergraduate certificate explores machine learning, deep learning, and natural language processing, with opportunities to work with widely used tools such as TensorFlow, PyTorch, and scikit-learn.

  • Courses cover technical competencies alongside ethical, legal, and societal aspects of AI implementation.
  • The curriculum includes topics like no-code AI tools, natural language programming, and conversational AI.
  • Designed for students across disciplines, this certificate supports both workforce readiness and further study in AI.

About the University

The University of Tennessee, Knoxville is a public research university and the flagship campus of the UT System. Located in a mid-sized urban setting, it offers a wide range of academic programs with strong industry connections and a commitment to applied learning.

Lipscomb University

Applied Artificial Intelligence – M.S. & Graduate Certificate

The Applied Artificial Intelligence program at Lipscomb University offers both a Master of Science (30 credit hours) and a Graduate Certificate (12 credit hours) designed for working professionals across various fields. The curriculum emphasizes the practical and ethical use of AI tools in solving real-world challenges across disciplines such as healthcare, business, education, engineering, and the arts.

  • The M.S. program features 15 hours of foundational AI courses, 6 credit hours of discipline-specific application courses, 6 credit hours of studio courses, and a 3-credit capstone.
  • Coursework covers AI tools and platforms from major tech companies including OpenAI, Microsoft, Google, and IBM.
  • The program is accessible in hybrid format, combining in-person and remote (Zoom and asynchronous) participation options.
  • No undergraduate degree in computer science is required for admission, making the program accessible to a broad professional audience.

About the University

Lipscomb University is a private Christian university located in Nashville, Tennessee. Known for its focus on values-based education, Lipscomb combines rigorous academics with a commitment to ethical leadership and community impact.

Tennessee Tech University

Bachelor of Science in Computer Science – Data Science and Artificial Intelligence Concentration

Overview
 The Data Science and Artificial Intelligence (DSAI) concentration at Tennessee Tech is designed to equip students with practical skills to solve real-world problems by combining computational techniques with data analysis. The program covers the entire data science lifecycle through coursework and project-based learning in areas such as:

  • Data management
  • Statistical inference
  • Data mining and machine learning algorithms
  • Data visualization

Students also gain research experience in the university’s Knowledge Discovery Lab and benefit from instruction by faculty with research backgrounds that include work with the Department of Homeland Security, National Science Foundation, and the National Institutes of Health.

About the University
Tennessee Tech University is a public institution located in Cookeville, Tennessee. Known for its focus on engineering and technology programs, it provides a hands-on learning environment in a traditional campus setting.

AI Scholarships and Financial Aid in Tennessee

Tennessee 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

  • Tennessee HOPE Scholarship
    Funded by the state lottery, this scholarship provides up to $4,500 annually for eligible students attending four-year institutions in Tennessee.
  • Tennessee Promise
    A last-dollar scholarship and mentorship program that covers tuition and fees not covered by other financial aid for recent high school graduates attending community or technical colleges in Tennessee.
  • Tennessee Reconnect
    Designed for adults aged 23 and older, this grant covers tuition for eligible students pursuing an associate degree or technical certificate at a Tennessee community college or technical school.

University-Specific Scholarships

Vanderbilt University

University of Tennessee – Knoxville

Tennessee Technological University

  • Computer Science Department Scholarships
    Offers scholarships for undergraduate students in computer science, including the NSF-funded CyberCorps: Scholarship for Service program, which supports students pursuing careers in cybersecurity and AI.

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 Tennessee

Tennessee’s diverse economy—spanning healthcare, logistics, automotive, and music tech—offers a rich environment for AI innovation and careers.

What to Look for In an AI Program in Tennessee

Choosing the right AI program means understanding your career interests, educational background, and the types of degrees available across Tennessee’s universities.

Here’s what to consider:

  • Curriculum Depth – Look for programs offering courses in programming (often Python or Java), machine learning, neural networks, natural language processing, and AI ethics.
  • Types of AI Degrees and Certificates:
    • Undergraduate minors and certificates in AI or data science are available at some universities and can complement a tech or business degree.
    • An AI undergraduate degree gives students foundational knowledge in algorithms, statistics, and data-driven problem solving—ideal for immediate workforce entry or graduate study.
    • Master’s programs (often in computer science or data analytics) provide opportunities to specialize in subfields like robotics, computer vision, or applied AI.
    • Doctoral programs in AI support cutting-edge research and are well-suited for those pursuing careers in academia or innovation leadership.
  • Flexible Learning Options – Some schools offer part-time or online formats, especially at the graduate level.
  • Research and Experiential Learning – Internships, capstone projects, and faculty-led research are important for gaining hands-on experience in real-world applications of AI.
  • Career Services and Industry Links – Choose programs that maintain strong ties to Tennessee’s healthcare, logistics, and tech sectors.

FAQs About Studying AI in Tennessee

Is Tennessee a good place to pursue a career in artificial intelligence?
Yes. Tennessee’s growing tech economy—especially in cities like Nashville, Chattanooga, and Knoxville—offers opportunities in healthcare, logistics, automotive engineering, and enterprise software development.

Do I need to be a computer science major to study AI?
Not always. Many AI programs are housed within computer science departments, but interdisciplinary options exist in engineering, data science, or business analytics. Some schools also offer AI minors or certificates for non-CS majors.

Are there online or hybrid AI programs in Tennessee?
Yes. Several universities, including UT Knoxville and Lipscomb, offer flexible learning options in computer science and data analytics that include AI-related coursework.

What careers can I pursue with an AI degree in Tennessee?
AI graduates often pursue roles such as machine learning engineer, AI software developer, data analyst, or systems architect. Job prospects are especially strong in healthcare, transportation logistics, and smart manufacturing.How can I gain hands-on AI experience as a student?
Look for research opportunities, industry-sponsored projects, internships, and senior capstone courses. Programs like Vanderbilt’s software systems research and UT’s AI Tennessee Initiative give students applied learning experiences.

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