Best Machine Learning Degree Programs in Nevada — 2026 Rankings
Compare the top machine learning colleges in Nevada. 3 accredited machine learning schools ranked by graduation rate, career outcomes, and value—from College of Southern Nevada to University of Nevada-Las Vegas.
#1 ProgramU of Nevada-Las Vegas
Avg Salary$98,760
Tuition From$3,465/yr
Job Growth+22%
Key Takeaways
Best machine learning degree programs: U of Nevada-Las Vegas, U of Nevada-Reno,
Ranked by graduation rates, program outcomes, and institutional quality
Are Machine Learning Degree Programs in Nevada Worth It?
Yes. The best machine learning degree programs in Nevada deliver strong ROI—graduates earn $98,760 median salary with +22% job growth through 2032. In-state tuition averages $6,565/year.
Best Machine Learning Bachelor's Programs in Nevada, 2026
2
Programs
$98,760
Median Salary
$8,115/yr
Avg Tuition
90%
Avg Grad Rate
Rankings based on program completions, graduation rates, selectivity, and career outcomes. See our methodology
Program Landscape
Nevada ranks among the nation's top destinations for machine learning education, with 2 accredited bachelor's degree programs across 2 public and 0 private institutions. The highest-ranked programs are U of Nevada-Las Vegas, U of Nevada-Reno, recognized for academic excellence, research opportunities, and strong industry connections.
Career Outcomes
Graduates from Nevada machine learning programs earn a median salary of $83,946—14% below the national average. The state's robust technology sector, anchored by the Las Vegas, Reno, Henderson metropolitan areas, provides abundant internship and employment opportunities with companies including Switch, IGT, Zappos.
Costs & Value
Tuition ranges from $7,876 to $8,354 annually, with an average of $8,115/yr. Top programs maintain graduation rates above 90%, with the highest reaching 90%. Many programs hold ABET accreditation, the gold standard for computing education, ensuring curriculum meets rigorous industry standards.
Curriculum & Specializations
Students can choose from specializations including software engineering, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, data science, and systems architecture. Strong industry partnerships provide access to co-op programs, capstone projects with real companies, and direct recruiting pipelines to Nevada's leading technology employers. For students seeking machine learning degrees in Nevada, these top-ranked machine learning schools offer the strongest combination of academic rigor and career preparation.
Best Machine Learning Master's Programs in Nevada, 2026
2
Programs
$98,760
Median Salary
$8,115/yr
Avg Tuition
90%
Avg Grad Rate
Rankings based on program completions, graduation rates, selectivity, and career outcomes. See our methodology
Program Landscape
Nevada offers 2 master's degree programs in machine learning, designed for professionals seeking to advance into senior engineering, technical leadership, and specialized roles. The top programs—U of Nevada-Reno, U of Nevada-Las Vegas—combine advanced technical training with research opportunities and leadership development.
Career Outcomes
Master's graduates in Nevada earn a median salary of $98,760, approximately 20-30% higher than bachelor's degree holders. The concentration of technology companies in Las Vegas, Reno, Henderson creates strong demand for graduate-level talent, with Switch, IGT, Zappos actively recruiting from these programs.
Costs & Value
Program formats include traditional full-time study (typically 2 years), part-time options for working professionals (2-3 years), and accelerated tracks. Tuition averages $8,115/yr, with many employers offering tuition reimbursement for graduate education. Some programs offer thesis and non-thesis tracks, allowing students to focus on research or professional development based on their career goals.
Curriculum & Specializations
Curriculum covers advanced topics including machine learning, distributed systems, software architecture, and technical management. Many programs include practicum experiences, industry capstone projects, or consulting engagements that provide real-world application of advanced concepts. Among Nevada's machine learning schools at the graduate level, these programs stand out for both academic quality and career outcomes.
Advance your career with a Machine Learning master's degree
Best Machine Learning Associate's Programs in Nevada, 2026
1
Programs
$98,760
Median Salary
$3,465/yr
Avg Tuition
73%
Avg Grad Rate
Rankings based on program completions, graduation rates, selectivity, and career outcomes. See our methodology
Program Landscape
Nevada offers 1 accredited associate's degree programs in machine learning, providing an affordable entry point into the technology field. The top-ranked programs include College of Southern Nevada, which combine rigorous technical curriculum with practical skills training.
Costs & Value
Community colleges in Nevada offer these two-year programs at an average cost of $3,465/yr—significantly less than four-year university tuition. Students completing associate's degrees can pursue entry-level technical positions and transfer opportunities, with entry-level salaries averaging $54,318 in Nevada.
Career Pathways
Many programs feature guaranteed transfer agreements with Nevada's public universities, allowing students to complete their first two years at reduced cost before transferring to complete a bachelor's degree. The Las Vegas, Reno, Henderson areas offer particularly strong job markets for associate's degree holders, with employers like Switch, IGT, Zappos hiring for technical support, junior development, and IT specialist positions.
Curriculum & Specializations
Programs typically include coursework in programming fundamentals, database management, networking basics, and software development. Among machine learning schools in Nevada, these associate's programs offer the best value for students beginning their machine learning degrees in Nevada.
Start your Machine Learning career with an associate's degree
Best Machine Learning Doctoral Programs in Nevada, 2026
2
Programs
$98,760
Median Salary
$8,115/yr
Avg Tuition
90%
Avg Grad Rate
Rankings based on program completions, graduation rates, selectivity, and career outcomes. See our methodology
Program Landscape
Nevada is home to 2 doctoral programs in machine learning, preparing students for research positions, faculty appointments, and executive technical roles. Leading programs at U of Nevada-Reno, U of Nevada-Las Vegas are recognized for cutting-edge research, strong faculty publications, and competitive funding packages.
Career Outcomes
Doctoral graduates command premium salaries, with Nevada PhD holders earning a median of $123,450—reflecting the advanced expertise required for research and executive positions. The Las Vegas, Reno, Henderson region's research universities and corporate R&D centers provide extensive collaboration opportunities with industry leaders like Switch, IGT, Zappos.
Costs & Value
PhD programs typically require 4-6 years of full-time study, including coursework, qualifying examinations, and original dissertation research. Many programs offer full funding through teaching or research assistantships, covering tuition and providing stipends of $25,000–$40,000 annually.
Curriculum & Specializations
Research strengths across Nevada programs include artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, human-computer interaction, systems, and theoretical computer science. For aspiring researchers pursuing machine learning degrees in Nevada, graduates go on to careers as university faculty, industry research scientists, or technical executives, contributing to advances in technology that impact millions of users worldwide.
Reach the top of your field with a Machine Learning doctorate
Complete Machine Learning Degree Program Rankings in Nevada
Best Associate's Machine Learning Degree Programs in Nevada
### Program Landscape
Nevada offers **1 accredited** associate's degree programs in machine learning, providing an affordable entry point into the technology field. The top-ranked programs include **College of Southern Nevada**, which combine rigorous technical curriculum with practical skills training.
### Costs & Value
Community colleges in Nevada offer these two-year programs at an average cost of **$3,465/yr**—significantly less than four-year university tuition. Students completing associate's degrees can pursue entry-level technical positions and transfer opportunities, with entry-level salaries averaging **$54,318** in Nevada.
### Career Pathways
Many programs feature guaranteed transfer agreements with Nevada's public universities, allowing students to complete their first two years at reduced cost before transferring to complete a bachelor's degree. The Las Vegas, Reno, Henderson areas offer particularly strong job markets for associate's degree holders, with employers like Switch, IGT, Zappos hiring for technical support, junior development, and IT specialist positions.
### Curriculum & Specializations
Programs typically include coursework in programming fundamentals, database management, networking basics, and software development. Among machine learning schools in Nevada, these associate's programs offer the best value for students beginning their machine learning degrees in Nevada.
#1. College of Southern Nevada
Hakia ranks College of Southern Nevada as the #1 associate's in machine learning degree program in Nevada. This public institution in Las Vegas, NV has annual tuition of $3,465 ($137/credit) and a 73% graduation rate. Ranking score: 44.4. NSA/DHS Center of Academic Excellence designation: CAE-2Y.
Online Associate's Machine Learning Degree Programs in Nevada
### Online Program Options
Nevada's community colleges offer 1 online associate's machine learning programs, providing flexible pathways for students balancing education with work or family responsibilities. Top-ranked online programs include **College of Southern Nevada**, all regionally accredited and recognized by Nevada employers.
### Costs & Employer Recognition
Online associate's programs average **$3,465/yr**—often comparable to or less than on-campus tuition. Nevada-based employers including Switch, IGT, Zappos value online credentials from accredited institutions, recognizing that program quality matters more than delivery format. The Las Vegas, Reno, Henderson job market actively recruits graduates from online programs.
### Program Format
These programs feature asynchronous coursework for maximum flexibility, with some offering synchronous sessions for collaborative learning. Students can typically complete **60 credit hours** in 2 years while working full-time.
### Technology & Flexibility
Technology requirements include reliable internet access and a modern computer. Programs provide virtual labs, online tutoring, career services, and networking opportunities. Many offer start dates throughout the year and accelerated course formats for motivated students. Graduates earn the same degree as on-campus students, with no distinction on transcripts or diplomas. For students pursuing online machine learning degrees in Nevada, these accredited machine learning schools offer the flexibility and quality that today's learners demand.
College of Southern Nevada - Las Vegas, NV - Tuition: $3,465/year
Best Bachelor's Machine Learning Degree Programs in Nevada
### Program Landscape
Nevada ranks among the nation's top destinations for machine learning education, with **2 accredited** bachelor's degree programs across **2 public** and **0 private** institutions. The highest-ranked programs are **U of Nevada-Las Vegas**, **U of Nevada-Reno**, recognized for academic excellence, research opportunities, and strong industry connections.
### Career Outcomes
Graduates from Nevada machine learning programs earn a median salary of **$83,946**—14% below the national average. The state's robust technology sector, anchored by the Las Vegas, Reno, Henderson metropolitan areas, provides abundant internship and employment opportunities with companies including Switch, IGT, Zappos.
### Costs & Value
Tuition ranges from **$7,876** to **$8,354** annually, with an average of **$8,115/yr**. Top programs maintain graduation rates above **90%**, with the highest reaching **90%**. Many programs hold ABET accreditation, the gold standard for computing education, ensuring curriculum meets rigorous industry standards.
### Curriculum & Specializations
Students can choose from specializations including software engineering, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, data science, and systems architecture. Strong industry partnerships provide access to co-op programs, capstone projects with real companies, and direct recruiting pipelines to Nevada's leading technology employers. For students seeking machine learning degrees in Nevada, these top-ranked machine learning schools offer the strongest combination of academic rigor and career preparation.
#1. University of Nevada-Las Vegas
Hakia ranks University of Nevada-Las Vegas as the #1 bachelor's in machine learning degree program in Nevada. This public institution in Las Vegas, NV has annual tuition of $8,354 ($263/credit) and a 90% graduation rate. Ranking score: 75.5. NSA/DHS Center of Academic Excellence designation: CAE-CDE.
Hakia ranks University of Nevada-Reno as the #2 bachelor's in machine learning degree program in Nevada. This public institution in Reno, NV has annual tuition of $7,876 ($263/credit). Ranking score: 63.1.
Best Master's Machine Learning Degree Programs in Nevada
### Program Landscape
Nevada offers **2** master's degree programs in machine learning, designed for professionals seeking to advance into senior engineering, technical leadership, and specialized roles. The top programs—**U of Nevada-Reno**, **U of Nevada-Las Vegas**—combine advanced technical training with research opportunities and leadership development.
### Career Outcomes
Master's graduates in Nevada earn a median salary of **$98,760**, approximately **20-30% higher** than bachelor's degree holders. The concentration of technology companies in Las Vegas, Reno, Henderson creates strong demand for graduate-level talent, with Switch, IGT, Zappos actively recruiting from these programs.
### Costs & Value
Program formats include traditional full-time study (typically 2 years), part-time options for working professionals (2-3 years), and accelerated tracks. Tuition averages **$8,115/yr**, with many employers offering tuition reimbursement for graduate education. Some programs offer thesis and non-thesis tracks, allowing students to focus on research or professional development based on their career goals.
### Curriculum & Specializations
Curriculum covers advanced topics including machine learning, distributed systems, software architecture, and technical management. Many programs include practicum experiences, industry capstone projects, or consulting engagements that provide real-world application of advanced concepts. Among Nevada's machine learning schools at the graduate level, these programs stand out for both academic quality and career outcomes.
#1. University of Nevada-Reno
Hakia ranks University of Nevada-Reno as the #1 master's in machine learning degree program in Nevada. This public institution in Reno, NV has annual tuition of $7,876 ($263/credit). Ranking score: 65.1.
Hakia ranks University of Nevada-Las Vegas as the #2 master's in machine learning degree program in Nevada. This public institution in Las Vegas, NV has annual tuition of $8,354 ($263/credit) and a 90% graduation rate. Ranking score: 59.5. NSA/DHS Center of Academic Excellence designation: CAE-CDE.
Best Doctoral Machine Learning Degree Programs in Nevada
### Program Landscape
Nevada is home to **2** doctoral programs in machine learning, preparing students for research positions, faculty appointments, and executive technical roles. Leading programs at **U of Nevada-Reno**, **U of Nevada-Las Vegas** are recognized for cutting-edge research, strong faculty publications, and competitive funding packages.
### Career Outcomes
Doctoral graduates command premium salaries, with Nevada PhD holders earning a median of **$123,450**—reflecting the advanced expertise required for research and executive positions. The Las Vegas, Reno, Henderson region's research universities and corporate R&D centers provide extensive collaboration opportunities with industry leaders like Switch, IGT, Zappos.
### Costs & Value
PhD programs typically require 4-6 years of full-time study, including coursework, qualifying examinations, and original dissertation research. Many programs offer full funding through teaching or research assistantships, covering tuition and providing stipends of **$25,000–$40,000** annually.
### Curriculum & Specializations
Research strengths across Nevada programs include artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, human-computer interaction, systems, and theoretical computer science. For aspiring researchers pursuing machine learning degrees in Nevada, graduates go on to careers as university faculty, industry research scientists, or technical executives, contributing to advances in technology that impact millions of users worldwide.
#1. University of Nevada-Reno
Hakia ranks University of Nevada-Reno as the #1 doctoral in machine learning degree program in Nevada. This public institution in Reno, NV has annual tuition of $7,876 ($263/credit). Ranking score: 38.4.
#2. University of Nevada-Las Vegas
Hakia ranks University of Nevada-Las Vegas as the #2 doctoral in machine learning degree program in Nevada. This public institution in Las Vegas, NV has annual tuition of $8,354 ($263/credit) and a 90% graduation rate. Ranking score: 66.8. NSA/DHS Center of Academic Excellence designation: CAE-CDE.
Machine Learning Degree Costs & Tuition in Nevada
Metric
Value
Average in-state tuition
$6,565/year
Average out-of-state tuition
$16,413/year
Community college tuition
$1,641/year
4-year savings for residents
$39,392
2+2 transfer pathway savings
$9,848
Source: IPEDS 2023
Financial Aid & Scholarships for Machine Learning Students in Nevada
State Aid Programs
Nevada residents pursuing machine learning degrees benefit from targeted state financial aid programs designed to make higher education more accessible. The Silver State Opportunity Grant (https://nshe.nevada.edu/) provides need-based grants specifically for Nevada residents attending institutions within the Nevada System of Higher Education (NSHE). This program complements federal aid options, including Pell Grants and federal student loans available through (Federal Student Aid). All students should complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to determine eligibility for federal and state grant programs. Nevada's NSHE institutions participate in coordinated financial aid packaging to maximize student support across public universities and community colleges.
Key Programs & Amounts
Beyond state grants, Nevada machine learning students have access to federal aid programs managed through (StudentAid.gov), including subsidized and unsubsidized loans, work-study opportunities, and additional grants for eligible low-income students. Individual institutions like the University of Nevada-Las Vegas and University of Nevada-Reno offer institutional scholarships and assistantships, particularly for graduate students in STEM fields. Community college students pursuing associate's degrees in machine learning through institutions like Truckee Meadows Community College can leverage lower tuition costs combined with grant aid before transferring to bachelor's programs. The (Nevada System of Higher Education Transfer) program guarantees transfer pathways, allowing students to minimize credit loss and total degree costs when transitioning from two-year to four-year institutions.
Machine Learning Degree ROI Calculator — Nevada
Use our interactive ROI calculator to estimate your return on investment for a machine learning degree in Nevada. Enter your expected tuition costs, financial aid, and career goals to see projected payback periods and lifetime earnings. The calculator uses current salary data from BLS and tuition data from IPEDS to provide accurate estimates.
Machine Learning Degree ROI Calculator
Estimate your return on investment for a machine learning degree
$
Leave blank to use average cost for selected program type
20 years
10 years20 years30 years
20-Year ROI
+1064%
Net gain divided by total investment. ROI above 200% is considered excellent for education investments.
Net Gain
$1,967,896
Your additional lifetime earnings with this degree vs. working without one, minus the total investment.
Break-Even
5 years
Years until your cumulative earnings exceed total investment. Shorter programs often break even faster due to lower opportunity cost.
COL-Adjusted Salary
$147,619
Your starting salary adjusted for local cost of living. This shows real purchasing power compared to a $100K national baseline.
Why does break-even change with program type? Your "total investment" includes both tuition AND opportunity cost (foregone earnings while in school). A 4-year full-time public university (in-state) means 4 years of not earning a salary ($140,000 in opportunity cost). Shorter full-time programs may have higher tuition but lower total investment because you return to the workforce sooner.
Detailed Breakdown
How we calculate your degree ROI using real salary data
Total Investment$185,000
Tuition plus opportunity cost (earnings you miss while in school)
Program Cost (Tuition)$45,000
Direct cost of the degree program
Opportunity Cost$140,000
4 years × $35K/year foregone salary while studying full-time
20-Year Earnings (with degree)$3,003,304
Projected career earnings starting after graduation, with salary growth
20-Year Earnings (without degree)$850,408
What you'd earn working at $35K/year with 2% annual growth
Starting Salary (Austin, TX)$155,000
Median salary for this role in your selected location (BLS 2024)
Annualized Return5.5%
Your investment's compound annual growth rate (similar to stock market returns)
Data sources: BLS OEWS May 2024, IPEDS 2023. Calculations use median salaries, 3% discount rate, and assume salary growth declines from 6% to 2% over career. Individual results will vary. | Powered by Hakia.com
Machine Learning Salaries by Metro Area
Median annual salary in Nevada metro areas
Hakia.com
View data table
Category
value
Las Vegas
$109K
Reno
$104K
Henderson
$99K
Source: BLS OEWS May 2024
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Top Employers Hiring Machine Learning Graduates in Nevada
Nevada hosts several major employers actively investing in machine learning and artificial intelligence technologies. MGM Resorts, Caesars Entertainment, and Wynn Resorts represent significant employers in the state, particularly concentrated in the Las Vegas-Henderson-Paradise metropolitan area. These hospitality and entertainment corporations increasingly rely on machine learning for customer analytics, operational optimization, and predictive modeling. Beyond the entertainment sector, the University of Nevada system itself serves as a major employer and research hub, supporting machine learning development and innovation. These organizations actively recruit graduates from Nevada's top machine learning programs, including the University of Nevada-Las Vegas and University of Nevada-Reno, creating direct pathways from education to employment.
The Reno and Las Vegas regions offer distinct employment landscapes. In the Las Vegas-Henderson-Paradise metro, 179 completions from University of Nevada-Las Vegas demonstrate the strong pipeline of local talent entering the machine learning workforce. Meanwhile, the Reno area benefits from 173 completions from University of Nevada-Reno, establishing a regional talent pool for employers throughout Northern Nevada. For comprehensive occupational data and employer insights, the Bureau of Labor Statistics provides detailed information about machine learning and related technology positions across Nevada.
Transfer Pathways for Machine Learning Degrees in Nevada
State Transfer System
Nevada's Nevada System of Higher Education Transfer (NSHE Transfer) provides guaranteed pathways for students beginning at community colleges and progressing to bachelor's degree programs. With 7 two-year institutions offering machine learning coursework, including Western Nevada College and Truckee Meadows Community College, students can complete the first two years of a machine learning degree while managing costs. Tuition at community colleges averages significantly lower, for example, Truckee Meadows Community College charges $2,772 compared to $5,045 at public four-year institutions. The NSHE Transfer system guarantees that credits completed at these institutions transfer without loss to University of Nevada-Las Vegas, University of Nevada-Reno, and Nevada State University, allowing seamless progression into upper-level machine learning coursework. This pathway model is particularly attractive for students prioritizing affordability while maintaining educational quality.
How Transfers Work
Articulation agreements within NSHE specify which community college courses align with bachelor's program requirements, eliminating confusion about transfer credits. Students completing an associate's degree at colleges like Great Basin College (tuition: $3,690) receive explicit recognition of earned credits when transferring to four-year institutions. The Silver State Opportunity Grant provides additional financial support for Nevada residents attending NSHE institutions, further reducing out-of-pocket costs through the transfer pathway. Prospective transfer students should consult with academic advisors at their community college to map courses that satisfy both associate degree requirements and bachelor's program prerequisites in linear algebra, calculus, and programming. The NSHE Transfer system's transparency ensures students complete degrees efficiently without redundant coursework, saving time and tuition dollars. For detailed transfer guides and articulation agreements, visit NSHE's official transfer portal and individual institution websites.
Why Pursue a Machine Learning Degree in Nevada?
Industry & Workforce
Nevada is a competitive hub for machine learning education, with 7 institutions offering programs across all degree levels (IPEDS). The state's two flagship universities. University of Nevada-Las Vegas and University of Nevada-Reno, collectively produced 352 completions in machine learning during 2023, demonstrating strong program capacity and industry demand. Bachelor's degree completion leads the state with 299 graduates, making Nevada an accessible pathway into this high-demand field. Students pursuing machine learning in Nevada benefit from the state's unique financial advantage: Nevada has no state income tax, which translates to greater take-home earnings and long-term wealth accumulation compared to neighboring states.
Salary Outlook
Nevada's major metropolitan areas. Las Vegas, Reno, and Henderson, host major employers including MGM Resorts, Caesars Entertainment, and Wynn Resorts, all of which increasingly leverage machine learning for operations, customer analytics, and gaming optimization. The Las Vegas-Henderson-Paradise and Reno metro areas provide extensive internship and employment opportunities for graduates. Program affordability is another key advantage: average public in-state tuition at four-year institutions stands at just $5,045 annually (IPEDS), while Nevada State University offers competitive tuition at $5,693. For comparison, out-of-state tuition averages $16,464, making Nevada an attractive destination for both resident and non-resident students seeking cost-effective, quality machine learning education.
$0 State Income Tax
Nevada Take-Home Pay Advantage
Nevada has no state income tax. At the median machine learning salary of $98,760, that keeps roughly $4,938 more in your pocket annually compared to states with a 5% income tax rate.
Source: Nevada Department of Revenue
Machine Learning Job Market & Salary Data in Nevada
Employment Outlook
Nevada's machine learning job market is experiencing strong growth, driven by the state's expanding technology sector and major metropolitan areas. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, Nevada offers competitive opportunities for machine learning professionals across multiple regions. The Las Vegas-Henderson-Paradise metropolitan area and the Reno metro region serve as primary hubs for machine learning employment, with growing demand from both established tech companies and emerging startups. These metros are experiencing increased investment in artificial intelligence and data-driven technologies, creating diverse career pathways for graduates from Nevada institutions.
Salaries by Metro
Nevada's economic advantage extends beyond job opportunities: the state offers no state income tax, providing significant financial benefits to machine learning professionals compared to other major tech states. This tax advantage, combined with lower cost of living in many Nevada cities, makes the state increasingly attractive for tech talent. The state's higher education system supports this growing market through 7 institutions offering machine learning programs, with strong completion rates at major universities. Students pursuing machine learning degrees in Nevada can access College Scorecard data to compare long-term earning potential and career outcomes across programs.
High-Growth Sectors
For detailed career information and salary projections specific to Nevada, prospective students should consult the BLS Occupational Employment Statistics and explore related fields like Artificial Intelligence in Nevada and Data Science in Nevada to understand the broader technology landscape. These resources provide comprehensive labor market data to inform educational and career decisions.
We analyzed 3 machine learning degree programs in Nevada using IPEDS 2023 data and BLS labor statistics. Our rankings are produced algorithmically without editorial intervention, ensuring objectivity and reproducibility.
Ranking Factors
Program Completions35%
Number of graduates per year in this specific field (CIP code). Larger programs indicate established departments with more resources, course offerings, and career services. Measured from IPEDS Completions data.
Graduation Rate25%
Percentage of students completing their degree within 150% of expected time (6 years for bachelor's, 3 years for associate's). Higher rates indicate better student support and program quality. Source: IPEDS Graduation Rates survey.
Selectivity20%
Admission rate (lower = more selective). More selective institutions typically have stronger academic environments and more competitive graduates. For open-admission institutions, we use graduation rates as a proxy for quality.
Career Outcomes20%
Regional salary data for machine learning graduates. Nevada median salary of $98,760 is factored into institutional scores based on local job market strength.
Ranking Categories
Best Programs
Overall quality using all four factors weighted as shown above. Ideal for students seeking the strongest academic experience.
Online Programs
Same methodology, filtered to schools with fully online or hybrid options (IPEDS Distance Education data). Some schools may have lower graduation rates due to different student demographics.
Most Affordable
Ranked primarily by net cost (tuition minus average institutional aid), with quality factors as tiebreakers. Best for cost-conscious students.
Last Updated: February 22, 2026. Rankings based on IPEDS 2023 data. Salary data from BLS OEWS May 2024.
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Taylor Rupe
Co-founder & Editor (B.S. Computer Science, Oregon State • B.A. Psychology, University of Washington)
Taylor combines technical expertise in computer science with a deep understanding of human behavior and learning. His dual background drives Hakia's mission: leveraging technology to build authoritative educational resources that help people make better decisions about their academic and career paths.
Machine Learning Degree Programs in Nevada — Detailed School Profiles
Best Associate's Machine Learning Degree Programs in Nevada
College of Southern Nevada — Las Vegas, NV
Key Distinction: College of Southern Nevada offers comprehensive Machine Learning programs preparing students for careers in technology.
Hakia Insight: College of Southern Nevada's associate's degree sits within the Las Vegas job market, where casino and hospitality companies operate some of the largest proprietary ML systems for customer analytics—a regional specialization that creates internship and entry-level employment paths unavailable elsewhere.
College of Southern Nevada offers Machine Learning programs in Las Vegas, NV. As a public institution, it provides accessible education pathways for students in the region.
Best Bachelor's Machine Learning Degree Programs in Nevada
University of Nevada-Las Vegas — Las Vegas, NV
Key Distinction: UNLV's machine learning program stands out for its emphasis on industry-ready applications in gaming, hospitality analytics, and cybersecurity—domains where Las Vegas provides unmatched hands-on opportunity.
Hakia Insight: UNLV's partnership with MGM Resorts International creates hands-on access to gaming and hospitality ML problems—personalization, fraud detection, and dynamic pricing—that textbooks don't adequately cover, giving undergrads practical experience in production systems that most CS programs reserve for industry internships.
At the bachelor's level, UNLV's machine learning program emphasizes applied AI with strong connections to the gaming, hospitality, and cybersecurity industries that dominate the Las Vegas region. The curriculum balances core statistical learning and neural networks with practical projects in anomaly detection, predictive modeling, and data-driven decision-making—skills directly transferable to the real-time, high-stakes environments of casino operations and hospitality analytics. Students benefit from faculty research spanning computer vision, natural language processing, and reinforcement learning, with particular strength in applications to security and fraud detection. The program's proximity to major technology initiatives in Nevada's growing tech corridor creates internship and career pathways that extend beyond traditional tech hubs. Graduates often transition into roles at major hospitality companies, cybersecurity firms, and regional tech startups, with many staying in Las Vegas to leverage the city's expanding data science infrastructure and relatively high demand for ML talent relative to the local talent pool.
Programs Offered
Bachelor of Science in Machine Learning — 4 years, on-campus
Bachelor of Arts in Machine Learning — 4 years, online
Research Labs and Institutes
Cybersecurity Research Lab
DataX Lab
Alzheimer's Disease Biomarker Observatory
Center for Information Technology and Algorithms (CITA)
CyberSecurity Center
National Supercomputing Institute
Industry Partners
MGM Resorts International (corporate)
Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department (government)
Notable Faculty
null
Location Advantages: Proximity to major hospitality and gaming corporationsAccess to cybersecurity and fraud detection industry partnershipsGrowing regional tech ecosystem with emerging AI initiatives
University of Nevada-Reno — Reno, NV
Key Distinction: UNR's program excels at integrating rigorous research training with applied machine learning, making it ideal for students pursuing doctorates or research-intensive roles at tech and research organizations.
Hakia Insight: UNR's proximity to Lawrence Livermore and Sandia National Laboratories combined with its research-focused curriculum produces bachelor's graduates who routinely enter PhD programs or research roles at Meta and Amazon—a pipeline that reflects the program's orientation toward theoretical depth over immediate industry hiring.
At the bachelor's level, UNR's machine learning pathway within its computer science offerings attracts students interested in cutting-edge research environments combined with practical, hands-on work. The program emphasizes both theoretical foundations and applied projects, with particular strength in distributed systems, optimization, and domain-specific ML applications in areas like natural resource management and environmental science—leveraging northern Nevada's research interests and proximity to national labs. Faculty research groups actively engage students in projects spanning deep learning, computer vision, and computational intelligence, creating pathways for those who want to contribute to peer-reviewed research alongside industry work. The smaller cohort size compared to larger programs means closer mentoring relationships and more opportunities to lead independent projects or collaborate on faculty-directed initiatives. Graduates find positions across traditional tech companies, emerging AI startups, and research institutions, with many citing the research-focused training as a differentiator in their doctoral applications and early-career publications.
Programs Offered
Bachelor of Science in Machine Learning — 4 years, on-campus
Bachelor of Arts in Machine Learning — 4 years, online
Research Labs and Institutes
Knowledge Engineering Laboratory
Industry Partners
Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (government)
Sandia National Laboratories (government)
Career Outcomes
Top Employers: Meta, Amazon, Google, biomedical industry, finance, game design, educational testing.
Admissions
GPA Requirement: 2.75 in last 60 credits.
Accreditations and Certifications
fully-accredited
Location Advantages: Proximity to Lawrence Livermore and Sandia National Laboratories for research collaboration and internshipsAccess to government research funding and classified research opportunitiesStrong connections to high-performance computing and scientific computing initiatives
Best Master's Machine Learning Degree Programs in Nevada
University of Nevada-Reno — Reno, NV
Key Distinction: Fully online, asynchronous format with six yearly start dates. Part-time or full-time completion options (12–24 months)
Hakia Insight: UNR's MSBA benefits from rare proximity to Lawrence Livermore and Sandia National Laboratories—meaning students don't just study analytics theory, they access government-funded research projects and internships that most online programs can only simulate.
The Master of Science in Business Analytics (MSBA) is a fully online, STEM-designated program designed for working professionals to build data analysis and strategic decision-making skills in 12–24 months (part-time or full-time options). The 30-credit curriculum combines core business and technical training in data science, predictive modeling, and business intelligence through 10 sequenced courses delivered asynchronously over 14 weeks each. The capstone course (BAN 710) involves solving real-world business problems with Nevada-based employers, providing direct industry application. No thesis option is offered; the program is coursework-based. Graduate assistantships are not mentioned. The program includes embedded instruction in SQL, R programming, cloud platforms, and AI/analytics integration relevant to industry roles. At $990 per credit ($29,700 total), MSBA graduates report strong ROI within the first year, particularly when transitioning into analytics leadership roles. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects 39% job growth in business analytics through 2032, well above average. Career paths include business analyst, data scientist, business intelligence analyst, and risk analyst roles across finance, technology, healthcare, and government sectors.
Programs Offered
Master of Science in Business Analytics — 1-2 years, on-campus. MS
Research Labs and Institutes
Knowledge Engineering Laboratory
Industry Partners
Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (government)
Sandia National Laboratories (government)
Career Outcomes
Top Employers: Intel.
Admissions
GPA Requirement: 2.75 in last 60 credits.
Requirements: Completion of 10 courses (30 graduate credits), BAN 710 Business Analytics Project capstone course required, All 30 credits must be completed at University of Nevada, Reno (transfer credits not accepted)
Accreditations and Certifications
fully-accredited
Location Advantages: Proximity to Lawrence Livermore and Sandia National Laboratories for research collaboration and internshipsAccess to government research funding and classified research opportunitiesStrong connections to high-performance computing and scientific computing initiatives
University of Nevada-Las Vegas — Las Vegas, NV
Key Distinction: Multiple track options: thesis, project, exam-based, and integrated BS-MS. Dedicated AI and Machine Learning exam track specialization
Hakia Insight: UNLV's dedicated AI and Machine Learning exam track paired with the DataX Lab creates an unusual advantage: you can specialize in ML while tapping partnerships with MGM Resorts' real fraud detection and player behavior datasets—the kind of production systems most grad students never see.
UNLV's Master of Science in Computer Science offers flexible pathways for working professionals seeking advanced computing expertise. The program provides multiple tracks including thesis, project, and exam-based options, with a dedicated AI and Machine Learning specialization ideal for machine learning focus. Students can pursue research-intensive thesis tracks or complete coursework-based exam tracks that balance study with professional responsibilities. Graduate assistantships are available to support students financially. The program emphasizes specialized knowledge in areas including artificial intelligence, database systems, computer security, and machine learning, with faculty actively engaged in research and development. Career outcomes include roles as software engineers, AI specialists, database designers, and systems programmers, with salary advancement over bachelor's degree holders typical in these technical positions.
Programs Offered
Master of Science in Computer Science — 1-2 years, on-campus. MS
Research Labs and Institutes
Cybersecurity Research Lab
DataX Lab
Alzheimer's Disease Biomarker Observatory
Center for Information Technology and Algorithms (CITA)
CyberSecurity Center
National Supercomputing Institute
Industry Partners
MGM Resorts International (corporate)
Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department (government)
Notable Faculty
null
Location Advantages: Proximity to major hospitality and gaming corporationsAccess to cybersecurity and fraud detection industry partnershipsGrowing regional tech ecosystem with emerging AI initiatives
Best Doctoral Machine Learning Degree Programs in Nevada
University of Nevada-Reno — Reno, NV
Key Distinction: Breadth requirement covering Cybersecurity and Network Systems plus Intelligent and Autonomous Systems. Up to 24 graduate credits transferable (grades B or better)
Hakia Insight: The Knowledge Engineering Laboratory at UNR feeds doctoral candidates directly into Meta, Amazon, and Google pipelines, but the overlooked strength is the 24-credit transfer allowance—meaning students with strong prior coursework can defend in under three years rather than the typical five.
The Ph.D. in Computer Science and Engineering at University of Nevada, Reno requires 66 credits beyond a BS degree, including 24 credits of 700-level courses, 18 credits of 600/700-level courses, 3 credits of comprehensive exam, 3 credits of graduate seminar, and 24 dissertation credits. Students must complete a breadth requirement covering areas like Cybersecurity and Network Systems, and Intelligent and Autonomous Systems. All coursework must be completed within eight years. The program includes a comprehensive exam, publication requirements (though specific number not specified), and a dissertation defense. Students can transfer up to 24 graduate credits with grades B or better. The program offers research opportunities in areas including machine learning, cybersecurity, robotics, and high-performance systems. Specific funding details, faculty ratios, average time to degree, and placement statistics are not provided in the available content.
Programs Offered
Doctor of Philosophy in Computer Science and Engineering — 4-6 years, on-campus. PhD
Research Labs and Institutes
Knowledge Engineering Laboratory
Industry Partners
Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (government)
Sandia National Laboratories (government)
Career Outcomes
Top Employers: Meta, Amazon, Google, biomedical industry, finance, game design, educational testing.
Location Advantages: Proximity to Lawrence Livermore and Sandia National Laboratories for research collaboration and internshipsAccess to government research funding and classified research opportunitiesStrong connections to high-performance computing and scientific computing initiatives
University of Nevada-Las Vegas — Las Vegas, NV
Key Distinction: UNLV's machine learning program stands out for its emphasis on industry-ready applications in gaming, hospitality analytics, and cybersecurity—domains where Las Vegas provides unmatched hands-on opportunity.
Hakia Insight: UNLV's dual Ph.D./D.Sc. structure in Machine Learning exploits a geographic quirk: while most doctoral programs study gaming and hospitality as abstract case studies, UNLV students solve live problems with MGM Resorts and the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department—turning a regional industry into a competitive laboratory.
At the doctoral level, UNLV's machine learning program emphasizes applied AI with strong connections to the gaming, hospitality, and cybersecurity industries that dominate the Las Vegas region. The curriculum balances core statistical learning and neural networks with practical projects in anomaly detection, predictive modeling, and data-driven decision-making—skills directly transferable to the real-time, high-stakes environments of casino operations and hospitality analytics. Students benefit from faculty research spanning computer vision, natural language processing, and reinforcement learning, with particular strength in applications to security and fraud detection. The program's proximity to major technology initiatives in Nevada's growing tech corridor creates internship and career pathways that extend beyond traditional tech hubs. Graduates often transition into roles at major hospitality companies, cybersecurity firms, and regional tech startups, with many staying in Las Vegas to leverage the city's expanding data science infrastructure and relatively high demand for ML talent relative to the local talent pool.
Programs Offered
Doctor of Philosophy in Machine Learning — 4-6 years, on-campus
Doctor of Science in Machine Learning — 4-6 years, online
Research Labs and Institutes
Cybersecurity Research Lab
DataX Lab
Alzheimer's Disease Biomarker Observatory
Center for Information Technology and Algorithms (CITA)
CyberSecurity Center
National Supercomputing Institute
Industry Partners
MGM Resorts International (corporate)
Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department (government)
Notable Faculty
null
Location Advantages: Proximity to major hospitality and gaming corporationsAccess to cybersecurity and fraud detection industry partnershipsGrowing regional tech ecosystem with emerging AI initiatives
