UC Irvine Launches AI Master's Program for Scientists
Source: news.uci.edu
UC Irvine Announces New AI Master's Program
Irvine, Calif., Oct. 3, 2025—The University of California, Irvine (UC Irvine) will be offering a Master of Applied Artificial Intelligence for Science degree. This professional program aims to provide scientists with advanced AI capabilities to make a real-world impact across various fields. The first group of students will begin the nine-month, in-person course in the fall of 2026.
According to Kieron Burke, interim dean of the School of Physical Sciences and Distinguished Professor of chemistry and physics & astronomy, the program leverages UC Irvine's innovative reputation, giving researchers a clear path into applied artificial intelligence, rather than programmers. He describes it as a concentrated degree that readies students for significant careers in sectors undergoing AI-driven transformation.
Addressing a Critical Need
The Master of Applied AI for Science is designed to fill a void that exists in typical data science curricula. These programs are generally geared toward computer science and engineering students pursuing jobs in technology. Instead, this new degree targets scientists seeking to spearhead AI implementation in both research and industry settings.
David Kirkby, program director and Chancellor’s Professor of physics and astronomy, stated that the Master of Applied AI for Science was born from the swift expansion of AI in UC Irvine laboratories. He also noted the technology's revolutionary possibilities for upcoming investigations. AI is being used increasingly to evaluate intricate data collections, simulate natural occurrences, and refine experimental procedures.
Kirkby stated that AI empowers researchers to discover enhanced solutions to longstanding challenges and tackle emerging issues. He added that it is time to standardize instruction and career advancement where AI and the physical sciences converge.
Curriculum and Opportunities
Students will move from Python programming and data management into sophisticated AI techniques like deep neural networks, extensive language models, and generative AI. Throughout the program, they will improve their knowledge of mathematics and statistics, gain proficiency in data processing and visualization, and learn to use AI morally and successfully in scientific situations. Participants will use these abilities to address real-world industry issues through practical projects. They will graduate with a collection of work that integrates their scientific background with their AI skills.
Kirkby says this master’s degree emphasizes practical training with an emphasis on actual data and problems pertinent to the industry, which is intended to foster professional growth. He anticipates that graduates will discover prospects in a variety of fields, including energy, biotechnology, government organizations, and national laboratories.
Location Advantages
UC Irvine’s location in Southern California’s center of innovation positions it as a prime location for this kind of program. The School of Physical Sciences has solid ties within Irvine’s business community and is close to prominent science and technology enterprises. Because of this, they are able to link students with companies that are eager to hire AI-skilled scientists.
The Master of Applied AI for Science program is accessible to both local and foreign students holding a bachelor’s degree (or its equivalent) in the physical or biological sciences. No prior experience in programming or employment is required for candidates.