Engineering (Professional Program: MEng)

Program Overview

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The University of Illinois Chicago's Master of Engineering in Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning program provides advanced knowledge and skills in these fields. This fully online, accelerated program focuses on practical applications and real-world problem-solving, preparing graduates for careers in AI/ML-driven industries. The program's curriculum covers core concepts in AI and ML, including image analysis, natural language processing, and machine learning techniques. Graduates are highly sought-after by employers due to their strong technical skills and practical experience.

Program Outline

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Degree Overview:

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The Master of Engineering (MEng) program in Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning (AI/ML)

offered by the University of Illinois Chicago (UIC) College of Engineering provides students with advanced knowledge and skills in these rapidly evolving fields. This program focuses on practical applications and real-world problem-solving, equipping graduates with the expertise they need to excel in AI/ML-driven industries.

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Key Objectives:

• Respond dynamically to industry needs by rapidly developing new specializations.
• Extend graduate engineering education to remote learners and those requiring asynchronous learning.
• Provide technical skill upgrades for engineers in small and medium-sized industries.
• Offer specialized technical training for geographically dispersed student groups.

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Program Format:

• Fully online: Enables flexible learning for students regardless of location or schedule.
• Professional: Focuses on coursework and practical application, without a research component.
• Accelerated: 8-week terms allow completion in as little as 12 months.
• 36 semester hours: Comprised of nine online courses specifically designed for MEng students.
• Completion time: All degree requirements must be completed within six years of admission.

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Other Key Points:

• Approved by the Illinois Board of Higher Education.
• Led by Associate Professor and Associate Dean Carmen Lilley, PhD.
• Program code: 2PFQ1211MENU

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Outline:

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The MEng AI/ML program curriculum

dives deep into the core concepts of AI and ML, covering topics like:

• Engineering Law: Explores legal aspects impacting engineers and their work.
• Engineering Management: equips students with leadership and management skills.
• Innovation Tools and Methods: Guides students in developing innovative solutions.
• Image Analysis and Computer Vision I: Introduces fundamental concepts and techniques in image processing and computer vision.
• Seminar: Provides an opportunity for students to present their research or projects.
• Artificial Intelligence I: Covers the fundamentals of AI, including search algorithms, knowledge representation, and reasoning.
• Introduction to Machine Learning: Explores various machine learning techniques and their applications.

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Assessment:

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Assessment methods in the MEng AI/ML program:

• Coursework: assignments, quizzes, exams, and projects are used to evaluate students' understanding of the material.
• Participation: Active engagement in class discussions and activities is encouraged and contributes to the overall assessment.
• Final project: culminates the program and demonstrates students' ability to apply their knowledge and skills to solve real-world problems.

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Grading criteria:

• Specific criteria for each assessment method are provided in the course syllabus.

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Teaching:

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Teaching methods in the MEng AI/ML program:

• Online learning: Utilizes a variety of online platforms and tools to deliver lectures, discussions, and assignments.
• Asynchronous learning: Allows students to access course materials and complete assignments on their own schedule.
• Interactive learning: Encourages active participation through online discussions, collaborative projects, and live Q&A sessions.

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Faculty:

• The program is led by experienced faculty with expertise in AI/ML and related fields.
• Faculty members are actively involved in research and industry collaborations, ensuring the program curriculum remains relevant and up-to-date.

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Unique approaches:

• The program leverages the latest technologies and teaching methods to create an engaging and effective learning environment.
• The focus on real-world applications and industry collaboration ensures graduates are equipped with the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in the workforce.

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Careers:

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Career paths:

• The MEng AI/ML program prepares graduates for a wide range of careers in various industries, including:
• Technology
• Healthcare
• Finance
• Manufacturing
• Education
• Government
• Specific career examples include:
• AI Engineer
• Machine Learning Engineer
• Data Scientist
• Data Analyst
• Research Scientist
• Software Engineer
• The program also equips graduates with the skills and knowledge necessary to pursue further studies in AI/ML or related fields.

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Career opportunities:

• Graduates of the MEng AI/ML program are highly sought-after by employers due to their strong technical skills and practical experience.

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Career outcomes:

• The program has a strong track record of placing graduates in successful careers in AI/ML.
• The program also offers scholarships and financial aid options to support students.