Are you interested in pursuing a career in artificial intelligence? If you would like to become an artificial intelligence specialist so that you can apply your skills in computer science in a real world setting, the first step is completing a formal education program. The next step would be to decide which industry would bring out your passion, and which region has the most opportunities for you as a professional. If you are just starting out on a mission to enter the world of AI professionally, where you will be creating computers and software programs that think for themselves, the key is choosing the right degree program. Read on, and find out just how much education you must get under your belt before you can become an AI specialist or scientist whose expertise is creating intelligent appliances and systems.

Be Sure You Are the Right Fit

Careers are not one-size-fits-all. Before you spend a large amount of time in school studying computer science with a concentration in Artificial Intelligence, you will need to be sure you are a good match for the field. Artificial Intelligence programs are only as smart as the people who have created them, and because of this, you will need to have strong computer skills before you even consider studying AI. Not only do you need to be inherently analytical to enter a field that is all about predictive analytics, you also need to enjoy being part of a collaborative team. Working well with others is important, but contributing to the team with a cooperative attitude is even more so.

Earn a Degree to Market Yourself in the Public and Private Sector

Choosing the right degree program from the right university is key when you want to succeed as a AI specialist. At a minimum, you will need to possess a Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science to compete for the flood of positions being opened up in the public and the private sectors. Most students will set their sights on schools that are well-known in the computer science arena and who have research departments. These schools will typically also offer a specialization for students pursuing careers in AI. If you want the most field-specific degree possible, look for a B.S. in Computer Science with a specialization in Artificial Intelligence. Graduate degree programs in this specialization are also available through most Departments of Computer Science.

Artificial Intelligence Careers

AI is undoubtedly an emerging field as multidisciplinary research in school and private settings is becoming more popular. If you would like to find a position where you can use your degree specializing in AI, you need to decide if you would like to work with a corporation or in a university setting first. Once you have decided on a setting, the next step would be to apply to entry-level positions. There are positions for robotic programmers in the industrial world, programmers in gaming, analysts for search engines, and AI specialist positions with the government who earn an average of $73,000 per year developing smart weapons.

AI is predicted to play a large role in private, professional and global aspects of life. If you would like to become a part of the AI world, the first step is getting the right education and then you can use your degree by pursuing a career in Artificial Intelligence.