{"id":170236,"date":"2026-01-06T15:52:10","date_gmt":"2026-01-06T20:52:10","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.bu.edu\/eng\/?post_type=bu-program-page&#038;p=170236"},"modified":"2026-06-09T15:43:10","modified_gmt":"2026-06-09T19:43:10","slug":"online-master-of-science-in-software-engineering-for-artificial-intelligence","status":"publish","type":"bu-program-page","link":"https:\/\/www.bu.edu\/eng\/academics\/explore-degree-programs\/online-master-of-science-in-software-engineering-for-artificial-intelligence\/","title":{"rendered":"Online Master of Science in Software Engineering for Artificial Intelligence"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<h2>Build the Next Generation of AI-Powered Software Systems<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Artificial intelligence is no longer experimental\u2014it\u2019s embedded in the software systems that power modern organizations. The online<strong> Master&#8217;s in Software Engineering for Artificial Intelligence <\/strong>at Boston University prepares experienced and aspiring engineers to design, build, and scale production\u2011grade software systems that responsibly integrate AI and large language models (LLMs).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-content-justification-center\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-button\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link\" href=\"https:\/\/bu-eng.cas.myliaison.com\/applicant-ux\/#\/login\">Apply Now<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Designed specifically for working professionals, this fully online AI software engineer program blends rigorous software engineering fundamentals, hands-on AI integration, and human\u2011centered system design.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"has-light-gray-background-color has-background\"><li><strong>Tuition<\/strong>: $25,000 total, fixed-price program<\/li><li><strong>Format<\/strong>: 100% online<\/li><li><strong>Credits<\/strong>: 30<\/li><li><strong>Time to Complete:<\/strong> As little as 4 semesters (16 months)<\/li><li><strong>Start Terms:<\/strong> Fall (August) and Spring (January)<\/li><li><strong>Next Application Deadline:<\/strong> August 10 for 2026 Fall entry<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-video\"><video controls src=\"\/eng\/files\/2026\/05\/elise_morgan_omse_program_overview_1920x1080_v1-1080p.mp4\"><\/video><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h3>Connect With Us<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Join an upcoming live <a href=\"https:\/\/www.bu.edu\/eng\/admissions\/graduate\/omse-webinars\/\">webinar<\/a> to explore the program, learn how it prepares you to build intelligent, real-world systems, and get your questions answered by faculty and program representatives. <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.bu.edu\/eng\/admissions\/graduate\/omse-webinars\/\" data-type=\"URL\" data-id=\"https:\/\/www.bu.edu\/eng\/admissions\/graduate\/omse-webinars\/\">Register now.<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h2>Why Choose AI and Software Engineering?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Most graduate programs teach software engineering, data science, or AI in isolation. In practice, modern engineering teams need professionals who can <strong>bridge these disciplines<\/strong>\u2014engineers who understand not just models, but how to deploy them reliably, securely, and ethically in real\u2011world systems.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This AI and software engineering degree is built to meet that industry need. You\u2019ll learn how to:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul><li>Integrate AI and LLMs into large\u2011scale software systems<\/li><li>Apply disciplined engineering practices to AI\u2011enabled applications<\/li><li>Design scalable data pipelines and MLOps workflows<\/li><li>Evaluate AI\u2011generated code for correctness, security, and maintainability<\/li><li>Build systems that are trustworthy, explainable, and usable by real people<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Graduates are prepared for roles as AI Software Engineers, MLOps Engineers, Platform Engineers, and Software Architects for Intelligent Systems.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h2>Designed for Career Impact<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>This online software engineering degree for AI is built with careers in mind. Throughout the software engineering and AI curriculum, you\u2019ll work with industry\u2011relevant tools, real\u2011world datasets, and production\u2011style workflows, culminating in a year\u2011long capstone project where you design and deploy an end\u2011to\u2011end AI\u2011enabled application at scale.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>You won\u2019t just study AI concepts\u2014you\u2019ll practice them:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul><li>Cloud-based deployment and modern release workflows<\/li><li>AI\u2011assisted development and code review<\/li><li>Data engineering and distributed systems<\/li><li>Responsible AI implementation and governance<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>By graduation, you\u2019ll have a portfolio of applied work that demonstrates your ability to operate at the intersection of software engineering, AI, and systems architecture.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h2>An Engaging and Interactive Online Experience<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>The AI and software engineering master&#8217;s is taught through a combination of on-demand, asynchronous content and weekly live sessions taught from the BU Virtual Studios. Students enter into a high-engagement, online learning model, including:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul><li>Weekly live sessions with expert faculty<\/li><li>Structured modules with clear milestones<\/li><li>Hands\u2011on assignments and collaborative projects<\/li><li>Personalized feedback from instructors and learning facilitators<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Offered by Boston University College of Engineering, this online AI and software engineering program delivers the same academic rigor as our on-campus programs and is taught only by BU Engineering faculty. You\u2019ll be challenged by cutting-edge coursework and a world-class engineering education, all in a flexible online format designed to fit the lives of working professionals.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h2>Accessible by Design<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>The online software engineering degree for artificial intelligence is intentionally designed to support learners from a range of technical backgrounds.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Before core coursework begins, students complete a structured foundational bootcamp that levels key skills in programming, tools, and data fundamentals. This ensures that motivated learners, from software developers to engineers transitioning into more AI\u2011focused roles, can succeed in the AI software engineer program.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Combined with its competitive $25,000 tuition, the AI software engineering program offers strong value without sacrificing academic quality or depth.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns has-light-gray-background-color has-background\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column\">\n<h2>Curriculum Overview<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>The 30\u2011credit software engineering and AI curriculum is organized into three integrated components:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Foundational Phase<\/strong><strong><br><\/strong>Orientation and bootcamp modules designed to prepare students for advanced coursework.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Software Engineering Core<br><\/strong>Software engineering courses in scalable systems, AI\u2011assisted development, data architecture, human\u2011AI interaction, and a culminating capstone project.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Artificial Intelligence Core<br><\/strong>Fundamental machine learning courses, programming for data\u2011driven systems, and responsible and ethical AI.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Together, these components prepare students to build AI\u2011enabled systems that are secure, reliable, scalable, and user\u2011centered.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column\">\n<h2>Coursework<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Pre-Program<\/strong><br>Orientation<br>Software Engineering &amp; Data Science Bootcamp<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Year 1<\/strong><br>Data Algorithms for Scalable Systems<br>Software Engineering Fundamentals<br>Programming Toolkit for Data Science<br>Machine Learning Fundamentals<br>Software Engineering at Scale<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Year 2<\/strong><br>Capstone Project: End to End AI Application Utilizing Big Data at Scale<br>AI\/LLM-Aided Software Development<br>Responsible and Ethical Data Science and AI<br>Data Design and Distribution at Scale, AI\/ML Ops<br>Human Centric AI UX<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-content-justification-center\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-button\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.bu.edu\/eng\/admissions\/graduate\/omse-curriculum\/\">Curriculum<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h2>Admissions<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Applicants are required to have a bachelor\u2019s degree with relevant coursework in areas such as Computer Science, Software Engineering, Data Science, or Engineering, or work experience in one or more of these fields. Professional experience is valued, and we welcome applications from a wide range of backgrounds.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The AI and software engineering master&#8217;s program is ideal for professionals who want to:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul><li>Advance into AI\u2011enabled engineering roles<\/li><li>Future\u2011proof their software engineering careers<\/li><li>Gain practical experience integrating AI into real systems<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>There are no testing requirements (e.g., GRE, GMAT), and we do not require professional references to apply. You may include them, however, if you believe they would be helpful for your application.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-content-justification-center\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-button\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.bu.edu\/eng\/admissions\/graduate\/tuition-and-financial-aid-for-online-masters-in-software-engineering-for-artificial-intelligence\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Tuition &amp; Financial Aid<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h2>Take the Next Step<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>The online Master of Science in Software Engineering for Artificial Intelligence at Boston University prepares engineers to lead in a world where AI is foundational, not optional. If you\u2019re ready to build the systems shaping the future of software, this AI software engineering program offers the rigor, flexibility, and value to get you there.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<p><script type=\"text\/javascript\"><br \/>\nwindow.addEventListener('message', function(event) {<br \/>\n    if (event.data.formSubmitted === true) {<br \/>\nconsole.log('submitted: ', event.data)<br \/>\n            window.dataLayer = window.dataLayer || [];<br \/>\n            window.dataLayer.push({<br \/>\n                'event': 'formSubmitted',<br \/>\n                'value': event.data<br \/>\n            });<br \/>\nwindow.location.href = \"\/eng\/omse-thank-you\/\";<br \/>\n    }<br \/>\n}, false);<br \/>\ndocument.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', (event) => {<\/p>\n<p>const params = new URLSearchParams(window.location.search);<br \/>\nconst iframe = document.querySelector(\"iframe\");<br \/>\nconst url = window.location.href;<\/p>\n<p>    \/\/ Listen for the iframe to load<br \/>\n    iframe.addEventListener('load', () => {<br \/>\n        const iframeWindow = iframe.contentWindow;<br \/>\n        iframeWindow.postMessage({type: 'EddyAdditionalFields', data: params.toString(), url: url}, \"*\");<br \/>\n    });<br \/>\n});<br \/>\n<\/script><\/p>\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator\" \/>\n<div style=\"max-width: 1100px; margin: 0 auto;\">\n<div style=\"max-width: 1100px; margin: 0 auto;\">\n<div style=\"max-width: 1100px; margin: 0 auto; padding-left: 42px;\">\n<h2>FAQs<\/h2>\n<details style=\"margin: 0 0 28px 0;\" open=\"open\">\n<summary style=\"display: flex; align-items: center; gap: 12px; cursor: pointer;\"><span style=\"font-size: 22px; line-height: 1; display: inline-block;\">\u25b6<\/span><\/summary>\n<p><\/p>\n<h3 style=\"display: inline; margin: 0;\">Program Overview &amp; Differentiation<\/h3>\n<div style=\"margin-top: 18px;\">\n<div class=\"bu_collapsible_container \" aria-live=\"polite\" data-customize-animation=\"false\"><h3 class=\"bu_collapsible\" aria-expanded=\"false\"tabindex=\"0\" role=\"button\">How is this program different from BU's other AI degrees?<\/h3><div class=\"bu_collapsible_section\" style=\"display: none;\"><\/p>\n<p>This program prepares engineers who can do something rare in industry today: combine strong software engineering best practices, the ability to architect systems that operate with data at scale, and a foundational understanding of AI. Most engineers have one or two of these skills \u2014 this degree is built to develop all three. The <a href=\"https:\/\/www.bu.edu\/cs\/masters\/program\/online-csai\/\">Online MS in Computer Science with Artificial Intelligence<\/a> goes deeper into how machine learning models are built and how they work internally, while this program focuses on using those models to build large-scale software systems, giving you enough foundational understanding of how models work to get data in and out of them, then shifting the focus to scalable systems and software engineering practices. The <a href=\"https:\/\/www.bu.edu\/cds-faculty\/programs-admissions\/masters-in-enterprise-ai-online\/\">MS in Enterprise AI<\/a> program, offered by BU&#8217;s Faculty of Computing &amp; Data Sciences, is the technical counterpart to the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.bu.edu\/questrom\/graduate-programs\/specialty-masters-programs\/online-ms-in-ai-in-business\/\">AI in Business<\/a> program from Questrom \u2014 it focuses on operationalizing AI deployments inside organizations rather than building production-grade AI software systems.<\/p>\n<p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"bu_collapsible_container \" aria-live=\"polite\" data-customize-animation=\"false\"><h3 class=\"bu_collapsible\" aria-expanded=\"false\"tabindex=\"0\" role=\"button\">Who is the online MS in Software Engineering for AI degree designed for?<\/h3><div class=\"bu_collapsible_section\" style=\"display: none;\"><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Boston University\u2019s online Master of Science in Software Engineering for Artificial Intelligence is designed for technical professionals who want to build, deploy, and scale AI-enabled systems in real-world environments.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>The program is ideal for:<\/b><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Experienced software engineers<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> expanding beyond traditional application development into machine learning and LLM integration\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Aspiring engineers <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">with strong technical foundations preparing for AI-focused roles in scalable system design, MLOps, data engineering, and responsible AI deployment<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Engineers transitioning into AI-enabled roles<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> from backend, platform, or systems engineering; and technical professionals seeking to future-proof their careers as AI becomes embedded in nearly every industry<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Technical professionals<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> seeking to future-proof their careers as AI becomes embedded in nearly every industry, requiring engineers who understand not just models, but how to operationalize them securely and reliably.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">This degree<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> is particularly well suited to working professionals, and we expect most students to take part in the program alongside their work.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"bu_collapsible_container \" aria-live=\"polite\" data-customize-animation=\"false\"><h3 class=\"bu_collapsible\" aria-expanded=\"false\"tabindex=\"0\" role=\"button\">Why does AI software engineering matter as a distinct discipline?<\/h3><div class=\"bu_collapsible_section\" style=\"display: none;\"><\/p>\n<p>Software engineering for AI is emerging because traditional software engineering and data science alone aren&#8217;t sufficient to build production-grade AI systems. AI systems behave probabilistically, require continuous monitoring, involve complex data dependencies, and need rigorous engineering practices to be reliable, scalable, and secure.<\/p>\n<p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"bu_collapsible_container \" aria-live=\"polite\" data-customize-animation=\"false\"><h3 class=\"bu_collapsible\" aria-expanded=\"false\"tabindex=\"0\" role=\"button\">What artificial intelligence careers does this degree prepare me for?<\/h3><div class=\"bu_collapsible_section\" style=\"display: none;\"><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Graduates of the online MS in Software Engineering for AI degree are prepared for technical roles that focus on building and operating AI-enabled systems in production environments.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>These roles include:<\/b><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>AI Software Engineer<\/b> <b>\u2014<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Design and develop applications that integrate machine learning models and large language models (LLMs) into scalable software systems. This includes evaluating AI-generated code, ensuring system reliability, and maintaining production-ready AI features.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>MLOps Engineer<\/b> <b>\u2014<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Build and manage the infrastructure that supports AI deployment. This role focuses on data pipelines, model deployment, monitoring, cloud environments, and ensuring AI systems remain reliable and secure over time.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Platform Engineer<\/b> <b>\u2014<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Develop and maintain the underlying platforms and tools that allow teams to build, deploy, and scale AI-enabled applications efficiently across large systems.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Software Architect for Intelligent Systems<\/b> <b>\u2014<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Design the overall architecture of AI-enabled software systems, ensuring scalability, security, ethical implementation, and seamless integration of AI capabilities into enterprise environments.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Because the software engineering courses and AI curriculum emphasize production-grade systems, cloud-based deployment, AI integration, and responsible implementation, graduates are prepared not just to build AI models \u2014 but to lead the engineering efforts required to make AI function reliably at scale in modern organizations.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<p><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/details><details style=\"margin: 0 0 28px 0;\" open=\"open\">\n<summary style=\"display: flex; align-items: center; gap: 12px; cursor: pointer;\"><span style=\"font-size: 22px; line-height: 1; display: inline-block;\">\u25b6<\/span><\/summary>\n<p><\/p>\n<h3 style=\"display: inline; margin: 0;\">Curriculum &amp; Coursework<\/h3>\n<div style=\"margin-top: 18px;\">\n<div class=\"bu_collapsible_container \" aria-live=\"polite\" data-customize-animation=\"false\"><h3 class=\"bu_collapsible\" aria-expanded=\"false\"tabindex=\"0\" role=\"button\">What specific courses and industry-relevant tools are included in the AI curriculum?<\/h3><div class=\"bu_collapsible_section\" style=\"display: none;\"><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The online MS in Software Engineering for Artificial Intelligence includes both foundational preparation and advanced AI-focused coursework designed to support production-grade system development.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>AI and Software Engineering Courses Include:<\/b><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Machine Learning Fundamentals<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Programming Toolkit for Data Science<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">AI\/LLM-Aided Software Development<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Responsible and Ethical Data Science and AI<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Data Design and Distribution at Scale, AI\/ML Ops<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Human-Centric AI UX<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Data Algorithms for Scalable Systems<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Software Engineering at Scale<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Capstone Project: End-to-End AI Application Utilizing Big Data at Scale<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><b>Throughout the <\/b><b>program<\/b><b>, students work with industry-relevant tools and production-style workflows, including:<\/b><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Cloud-based deployment environments<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Modern release workflows<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">AI-assisted development and code review tools<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Data engineering frameworks<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Scalable data pipelines and MLOps workflows<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The year-long capstone project allows students to apply these tools and techniques in designing and deploying a full AI-enabled application at scale, reinforcing practical, real-world implementation skills.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"bu_collapsible_container \" aria-live=\"polite\" data-customize-animation=\"false\"><h3 class=\"bu_collapsible\" aria-expanded=\"false\"tabindex=\"0\" role=\"button\">What programming languages and technologies will I use in the program?<\/h3><div class=\"bu_collapsible_section\" style=\"display: none;\"><\/p>\n<p>The two primary languages are Python and Java. Python is used in the machine learning and data science modules, and Java is used in the general software engineering modules. Students will also work extensively with one major cloud provider (AWS, Google Cloud, or Azure), large-scale data technologies such as Kafka or Google Pub\/Sub, and database systems including Postgres and non-relational alternatives suited to scale. GitHub will be used heavily across every module.<\/p>\n<p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"bu_collapsible_container \" aria-live=\"polite\" data-customize-animation=\"false\"><h3 class=\"bu_collapsible\" aria-expanded=\"false\"tabindex=\"0\" role=\"button\">What skills will I gain from the AI and software engineering degree?<\/h3><div class=\"bu_collapsible_section\" style=\"display: none;\"><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Boston University\u2019s online MS in Software Engineering for AI degree prepares you to design, build, and deploy AI-enabled software systems that are secure, scalable, and production-ready.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Throughout the program, you\u2019ll develop skills in:<\/b><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Integrating AI and large language models (LLMs) into large-scale software systems<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Applying disciplined software engineering practices to AI-enabled applications<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Designing scalable data pipelines and MLOps workflows<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Evaluating AI-generated code for correctness, security, and maintainability<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Cloud-based deployment and modern release workflows<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Data engineering and distributed systems design<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Responsible and ethical AI implementation<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Human-centered system design and AI UX<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Through hands-on assignments and a year-long capstone project, you\u2019ll build applied experience working with industry-relevant tools and production-style workflows \u2014 graduating with a portfolio that demonstrates your ability to operate at the intersection of software engineering, AI, and systems architecture.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"bu_collapsible_container \" aria-live=\"polite\" data-customize-animation=\"false\"><h3 class=\"bu_collapsible\" aria-expanded=\"false\"tabindex=\"0\" role=\"button\">What kinds of real-world problems will I learn to solve in the Software Engineering and AI degree?<\/h3><div class=\"bu_collapsible_section\" style=\"display: none;\"><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">In the online MS in Software Engineering for AI degree, you\u2019ll learn to solve the kinds of challenges organizations face when moving AI from experimentation into production including:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Integrating AI and large language models (LLMs) into existing software systems without compromising reliability or performance<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Designing scalable data pipelines and MLOps workflows that support model training, deployment, and monitoring<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Evaluating AI-generated code for correctness, security, and maintainability<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Deploying AI-enabled applications in cloud environments using modern release workflows<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Building systems that are trustworthy, explainable, and human-centered<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Ensuring responsible and ethical AI implementation within real-world constraints<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Through hands-on assignments and a year-long capstone project, you\u2019ll apply these software engineering and AI skills to develop an end-to-end AI-enabled application at scale \u2014 preparing you to address the operational, architectural, and governance challenges that come with building intelligent software systems in modern organizations.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"bu_collapsible_container \" aria-live=\"polite\" data-customize-animation=\"false\"><h3 class=\"bu_collapsible\" aria-expanded=\"false\"tabindex=\"0\" role=\"button\">Is there a dedicated deep learning course?<\/h3><div class=\"bu_collapsible_section\" style=\"display: none;\"><\/p>\n<p>Deep learning is covered as part of the Machine Learning Fundamentals module, typically across one to two weeks of that course.<\/p>\n<p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"bu_collapsible_container \" aria-live=\"polite\" data-customize-animation=\"false\"><h3 class=\"bu_collapsible\" aria-expanded=\"false\"tabindex=\"0\" role=\"button\">Which LLM or AI coding tools will be used in the AI\/LLM-Aided Software Development course?<\/h3><div class=\"bu_collapsible_section\" style=\"display: none;\"><\/p>\n<p>The course is designed to be tool-agnostic so that it stays current as the landscape evolves. Today, that may mean working with a leading model such as Claude, but the focus is on durable principles rather than any one tool \u2014 best practices for validating and verifying AI-generated code, building automated test suites that give confidence in generated code, and designing multi-agent systems that handle code generation, validation, and deployment.<\/p>\n<p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"bu_collapsible_container \" aria-live=\"polite\" data-customize-animation=\"false\"><h3 class=\"bu_collapsible\" aria-expanded=\"false\"tabindex=\"0\" role=\"button\">What is the capstone project in the AI Curriculum?<\/h3><div class=\"bu_collapsible_section\" style=\"display: none;\"><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The capstone project is a year-long, hands-on experience where students design and deploy an end-to-end AI-enabled application at scale.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Rather than focusing on theory alone, the capstone requires students to apply everything they\u2019ve learned \u2014 including software engineering fundamentals, AI integration, data architecture, MLOps workflows, and responsible AI practices \u2014 in a production-style environment. Students work with industry-relevant tools, real-world datasets, and scalable system design principles.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">By the end of the capstone, students have built a fully developed AI-enabled system and graduate with a portfolio-ready project that demonstrates their ability to integrate AI reliably, securely, and responsibly into large-scale software systems.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"bu_collapsible_container \" aria-live=\"polite\" data-customize-animation=\"false\"><h3 class=\"bu_collapsible\" aria-expanded=\"false\"tabindex=\"0\" role=\"button\">How is coursework assessed?<\/h3><div class=\"bu_collapsible_section\" style=\"display: none;\"><\/p>\n<p>Assessment is primarily hands-on. Students complete project-based work in each module, culminating in the year-long capstone. Larger summative assessments combine a built artifact with a written reflection on how the student arrived at the solution. Smaller formative assessments are embedded in the asynchronous content to check understanding as students progress.<\/p>\n<p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<p><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/details><details style=\"margin: 0 0 28px 0;\" open=\"open\">\n<summary style=\"display: flex; align-items: center; gap: 12px; cursor: pointer;\"><span style=\"font-size: 22px; line-height: 1; display: inline-block;\">\u25b6<\/span><\/summary>\n<p><\/p>\n<h3 style=\"display: inline; margin: 0;\">Format, Time Commitment &amp; Student Experience<\/h3>\n<div style=\"margin-top: 18px;\">\n<div class=\"bu_collapsible_container \" aria-live=\"polite\" data-customize-animation=\"false\"><h3 class=\"bu_collapsible\" aria-expanded=\"false\"tabindex=\"0\" role=\"button\">How long does the program take, and how many hours per week should I expect to study?<\/h3><div class=\"bu_collapsible_section\" style=\"display: none;\"><\/p>\n<p>At the standard pace, the program takes four semesters (roughly 16 months) with students typically spending 20 to 25 hours per week. Students taking a slower pace can expect about 10 to 15 hours per week and complete the program over six to eight semesters. The first cohort begins in fall 2026, and students starting then on the standard pace would graduate in December 2027.<\/p>\n<p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"bu_collapsible_container \" aria-live=\"polite\" data-customize-animation=\"false\"><h3 class=\"bu_collapsible\" aria-expanded=\"false\"tabindex=\"0\" role=\"button\">How is the online AI software engineering program structured weekly?<\/h3><div class=\"bu_collapsible_section\" style=\"display: none;\"><\/p>\n<p><b>How is the Online AI Software Engineering Program Structured Weekly?<\/b><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The online MS in Software Engineering for AI program is designed for working professionals and follows a structured, high-engagement weekly format.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Each week typically includes:<\/b><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>On-demand asynchronous coursework<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, including recorded lectures and structured learning modules<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Hands-on assignments and applied projects<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> focused on real-world, production-style workflows<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Weekly live sessions<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> taught from <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.bu.edu\/online\/who-we-are\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">BU\u2019s Virtual Studios<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, where students engage directly with faculty<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Collaborative project work<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> and opportunities for peer interaction<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Personalized feedback<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> from instructors and learning facilitators<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The program blends flexibility with structure \u2014 allowing students to learn on their schedule while still benefiting from live faculty interaction and collaborative engagement.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"bu_collapsible_container \" aria-live=\"polite\" data-customize-animation=\"false\"><h3 class=\"bu_collapsible\" aria-expanded=\"false\"tabindex=\"0\" role=\"button\">How long is the pre-program bootcamp?<\/h3><div class=\"bu_collapsible_section\" style=\"display: none;\"><\/p>\n<p>The bootcamp is designed to take about two weeks, or roughly 20 total hours of work (about 10 hours per week) completed before the first semester begins. It covers foundational skills the program assumes from day one, including GitHub fluency, basics of Python, and familiarity with code review processes. Students who already have these skills will likely move through it much faster. A separate orientation helps students get comfortable navigating the fully online learning environment.<\/p>\n<p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"bu_collapsible_container \" aria-live=\"polite\" data-customize-animation=\"false\"><h3 class=\"bu_collapsible\" aria-expanded=\"false\"tabindex=\"0\" role=\"button\">What support can online students expect from BU?<\/h3><div class=\"bu_collapsible_section\" style=\"display: none;\"><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Online students in the Master\u2019s in Software Engineering for Artificial Intelligence benefit from the same academic standards and institutional support available across Boston University.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b><\/b><b>Support includes:<\/b><b><br \/><\/b><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Dedicated learning facilitators<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> who provide guidance, feedback, and structured support throughout each course<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Direct access to BU Engineering faculty<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> through weekly live sessions and ongoing interaction<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Academic advising and student success support<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> to help students navigate coursework and stay on track<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b style=\"font-size: revert; color: initial; font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'Segoe UI', Roboto, Oxygen-Sans, Ubuntu, Cantarell, 'Helvetica Neue', sans-serif;\">Access to BU\u2019s global alumni network and benefits<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, offering long-term professional connections and networking opportunities.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"bu_collapsible_container \" aria-live=\"polite\" data-customize-animation=\"false\"><h3 class=\"bu_collapsible\" aria-expanded=\"false\"tabindex=\"0\" role=\"button\">Does the program offer industry partnerships, mentorship, or guest speakers?<\/h3><div class=\"bu_collapsible_section\" style=\"display: none;\"><\/p>\n<p>Yes. The program includes fireside chats with industry professionals throughout, and the College of Engineering is actively bringing in industry voices wherever possible. Some capstone project ideas may also be shaped by real needs from industry partners. It does not offer industry placements or internships.<\/p>\n<p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<p><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/details><details style=\"margin: 0 0 28px 0;\" open=\"open\">\n<summary style=\"display: flex; align-items: center; gap: 12px; cursor: pointer;\"><span style=\"font-size: 22px; line-height: 1; display: inline-block;\">\u25b6<\/span><\/summary>\n<p><\/p>\n<h3 style=\"display: inline; margin: 0;\">Admissions &amp; Career Outcomes<\/h3>\n<div style=\"margin-top: 18px;\">\n<div class=\"bu_collapsible_container \" aria-live=\"polite\" data-customize-animation=\"false\"><h3 class=\"bu_collapsible\" aria-expanded=\"false\"tabindex=\"0\" role=\"button\">How do I begin the application process?<\/h3><div class=\"bu_collapsible_section\" style=\"display: none;\"><\/p>\n<p>We ask all interested applicants to complete our <a href=\"http:\/\/bu-eng.cas.myliaison.com\">online application<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"bu_collapsible_container \" aria-live=\"polite\" data-customize-animation=\"false\"><h3 class=\"bu_collapsible\" aria-expanded=\"false\"tabindex=\"0\" role=\"button\">How do I apply to the software engineering and AI program?<\/h3><div class=\"bu_collapsible_section\" style=\"display: none;\"><\/p>\n<p>To apply to the AI and software engineering program, you must hold a bachelor&#8217;s degree with relevant coursework in areas such as computer science, software engineering, data science, engineering, or related technical fields. Professional experience is valued, and applicants from a range of technical backgrounds are encouraged to apply. The program does not require standardized test scores (such as the GRE or GMAT), and professional references are optional. The software engineering and AI master&#8217;s program offers start terms in September and January, and applicants should review the BU Engineering <a href=\"https:\/\/www.bu.edu\/eng\/admissions\/graduate\/graduate-admissions\/\">admissions page<\/a> for specific application deadlines and submission requirements.<\/p>\n<p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"bu_collapsible_container \" aria-live=\"polite\" data-customize-animation=\"false\"><h3 class=\"bu_collapsible\" aria-expanded=\"false\"tabindex=\"0\" role=\"button\">Are graduate transfer credits accepted from other universities?<\/h3><div class=\"bu_collapsible_section\" style=\"display: none;\"><\/p>\n<p>No. The program is designed as a structured, linear sequence of courses, and transfer credits from other institutions are not accepted.<\/p>\n<p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"bu_collapsible_container \" aria-live=\"polite\" data-customize-animation=\"false\"><h3 class=\"bu_collapsible\" aria-expanded=\"false\"tabindex=\"0\" role=\"button\">How does the online software engineering degree in AI benefit my career?<\/h3><div class=\"bu_collapsible_section\" style=\"display: none;\"><\/p>\n<p>The software engineering and artificial intelligence degree prepares you to advance into AI-enabled engineering roles by building the skills needed to design, deploy, and scale production-grade AI systems. As AI becomes embedded in modern software infrastructure, organizations need engineers who understand not just models, but how to integrate them reliably, securely, and ethically into real-world systems. This artificial intelligence master&#8217;s program equips you with applied experience in scalable system design, AI integration, MLOps workflows, cloud deployment, and AI-assisted development \u2014 all aligned with industry-relevant tools and production-style practices. Graduates leave with a portfolio of applied work that demonstrates their ability to operate at the intersection of software engineering, AI, and systems architecture.<\/p>\n<p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<p><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/details><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Fully online.<br \/>\nArtificial intelligence is no longer experimental\u2014it\u2019s embedded in the software systems that power modern organizations. The online Master of Science in Software Engineering for Artificial Intelligence at Boston University prepares experienced and aspiring engineers to design, build, and scale production\u2011grade software systems that responsibly integrate AI and large language models (LLMs).<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":21681,"featured_media":170253,"parent":0,"menu_order":0,"template":"","meta":{"_editor_template":""},"bu_progs_page-type":[4],"bu_progs_degree-option":[74],"bu_progs_education-level":[106,1437],"bu_progs_area-of-study":[1435,198,1431],"bu_progs_format":[110],"bu_progs_availability":[114,116],"bu_progs_location":[118],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.bu.edu\/eng\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/bu-program-page\/170236"}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.bu.edu\/eng\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/bu-program-page"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.bu.edu\/eng\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/bu-program-page"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.bu.edu\/eng\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/21681"}],"version-history":[{"count":49,"href":"https:\/\/www.bu.edu\/eng\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/bu-program-page\/170236\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":174877,"href":"https:\/\/www.bu.edu\/eng\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/bu-program-page\/170236\/revisions\/174877"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.bu.edu\/eng\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/170253"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.bu.edu\/eng\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=170236"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"bu_progs_page-type","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.bu.edu\/eng\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/bu_progs_page-type?post=170236"},{"taxonomy":"bu_progs_degree-option","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.bu.edu\/eng\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/bu_progs_degree-option?post=170236"},{"taxonomy":"bu_progs_education-level","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.bu.edu\/eng\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/bu_progs_education-level?post=170236"},{"taxonomy":"bu_progs_area-of-study","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.bu.edu\/eng\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/bu_progs_area-of-study?post=170236"},{"taxonomy":"bu_progs_format","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.bu.edu\/eng\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/bu_progs_format?post=170236"},{"taxonomy":"bu_progs_availability","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.bu.edu\/eng\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/bu_progs_availability?post=170236"},{"taxonomy":"bu_progs_location","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.bu.edu\/eng\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/bu_progs_location?post=170236"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}