Accelerated Online Master’s in Human-Centered AI, MA

Essential Skills & Insights

Coursework in this online master’s in human-centered AI program prepares you to design, evaluate, and lead AI systems that prioritize human needs and ethical practices. You’ll combine technical understanding with design thinking, ethics, and communication to ensure AI solutions are safe, inclusive, and impactful.

• AI Principles & Applications: Gain a strong foundation in machine learning, natural language processing, and data-driven systems.
• Human-Centered Design: Apply design thinking to create AI tools that are intuitive, inclusive, and user-friendly.
• Ethics & Responsible AI: Explore frameworks for responsible innovation and fairness, transparency, and accountability in AI systems.
• Data Analysis & Interpretation: Strengthen your ability to collect, analyze, and apply data responsibly in decision-making.
• Collaboration & Communication: Build skills to work across technical and non-technical teams, translating AI concepts into real-world impact.

AI-Powered Learning, Real-World Impact

Our accelerated online programs integrate opportunities to engage with Artificial Intelligence (AI) as a powerful tool for learning and career preparation. Students apply AI in ways that build authentic skills and mirror how businesses are leveraging it across industries. We emphasize ethical and responsible use, ensuring that students develop the judgment to apply AI appropriately. This approach helps graduates enter the workforce with both technical knowledge and a clear understanding of AI’s role in their discipline.

Careers in Human-Centered AI

As artificial intelligence becomes integrated into every industry, demand is rising for professionals who can design and guide AI with human needs and ethical standards at the forefront. A master’s in human-centered AI equips graduates for roles that blend technology, design, and leadership.

• AI Product Manager — Median salary: $120,000+
  Oversee the development of AI-driven products, ensuring they are ethical, effective, and aligned with user needs.
• Ethical AI Specialist — Median salary: $112,000
  Guide organizations in developing and deploying AI responsibly by addressing bias, fairness, and compliance concerns.
• UX Designer for AI Systems — Median salary: $98,000
  Design intuitive, human-centered interfaces for AI applications, focusing on accessibility, usability, and positive user experience.

Admissions Requirements

Supporting Copy: For admission to your accelerated online MA in Human-Centered AI, simply complete the 2 step application process.

1. Complete the Graduate Admissions Online Application by visiting apply.lindenwood.edu  
2. Request official transcripts from your undergraduate institution(s) showing a cumulative GPA of 2.5 or higher.
   
   Only transcripts with the final degree posted are required if you attended multiple institutions.
   
   Transcripts may be submitted:
   • Electronically to: [email protected]
   • By Mail to:
     Office of Admissions
     Lindenwood University
     8205 S Priest Dr #11480 Tempe, AZ 85284

Curriculum Overview

Earn your Master of Science in Human-Centered Artificial Intelligence with Lindenwood University’s accelerated online program. No prior experience in AI or advanced math is required. This program is designed to build your skills in large language models, generative AI, machine learning, and ethics while emphasizing human-centered real-world application across industries like business, healthcare, and education. Through hands-on projects and research tailored to your goals, you’ll graduate prepared in today’s fast-moving AI industry.

Applied Project

Students will complete a final project applying theories and research methods of their field in a professional setting or in a final product or series of products. Projects may take different forms, but all students produce some form of material on behalf of an organization or field of practice. Students document their progress and product for final committee review.

Major Coursework – 15 Credit Hours

Research and Scholastic Writing

This course explores the tools and methods used to write graduate-level research papers. Students will be introduced to advanced research techniques, thesis development and refinement, differentiation of primary and secondary sources, and effective writing for their own discipline. Through the process, students will recognize and address the strengths and weaknesses in their critical thinking and writing skills and produce successful research projects that demonstrate knowledge of topics and proficiency in writing skills in their own field.

Graduate Seminar

Students are encouraged to begin exploration into advanced issues, methods, and critical theory in order to identify the topic for their final thesis and begin gathering research toward that goal.

Thesis/Directed Project I

The directed thesis project consists of a project in the student’s field completed during the course of graduate studies and/or a supporting written thesis depending upon the program. The thesis project and topic must be approved by a committee of three faculty members, two of which must be from the student’s own program. After students finalize their topic with their committee chair, research into and execution of the project begins.
Repeatable: May be repeated for a maximum of 6 credit hours.

Thesis/Directed Project II

The directed thesis project consists of a project in the student’s field completed during the course of graduate studies and/or a supporting written thesis depending upon the program. The approval of the thesis project topic and demonstrable progress of initial research/execution must be completed in CAH 60000. Final production of the thesis project and/or written thesis will be completed under faculty direction and evaluated by the student’s committee.
Repeatable: May be repeated for a maximum of 6 credit hours.

Ethics of AI

PHRL 52500 Ethics of AI (3 credits): This course delves into the intersection of ethics and artificial intelligence (AI), addressing the ethical implications of AI technologies in contemporary society. Drawing from contemporary moral theories and their historical foundations, students will critically examine the ethical considerations surrounding AI development and deployment, including AI’s human and social impact.

Specialized Coursework – 15 Credit Hours

Data Analysis and Visualization

This course presents strategies to leverage artificial intelligence for data analysis and visualization. The principles of data manipulation, interpretation, and presentation shall be foregrounded through hands-on exercises and real-world case studies using diverse data sources and applying advanced analytical techniques to craft compelling visual narratives.

AI for Skill Development

This course presents metacognitive strategies supported by artificial intelligence to promote lifelong learning, skill development, and enhancement. Through practical applications of AI technologies, personalized skill-building experiences will be created while exploring adaptive learning systems, intelligent tutoring, and AI-driven feedback mechanisms. Through AI-enhanced learning strategies, skill acquisition and refinement across a range of applications can be accelerated.

Coding and Scripting with Generative AI

This course investigates the use of generative artificial intelligence for coding and scripting. It covers advanced coding techniques, script automation, and creative coding with the assistance of AI-powered tools. Through immersive projects and experimentation, students will develop and expand their coding skills and capabilities to create innovative applications and solutions driven by AI-augmented coding capabilities.

Advanced Research and Writing with AI

This course presents an advanced exploration of research and writing enhanced by artificial intelligence. Students will discover how AI can augment the research process, from topic selection to information retrieval and synthesis. They will also delve into AI-driven content generation and editing, as well as the role of AI in enhancing written communication. Through a series of research projects, students will develop sophisticated research and writing skills, culminating in the creation of high-impact research papers and documents.

Human-AI Collaboration

This course explores the theories and practices underpinning effective human-AI interactions, encompassing UX (user experience) design and ethical considerations. Students will explore the evolving dynamics of collaboration between humans and artificial intelligence systems in various practical contexts, from creative endeavors to problem-solving scenarios. Through case studies and collaborative projects, students will gain an advanced understanding of how to facilitate productive human-AI interaction and the responsible integration of AI into collaborative workflows.

*Students who do not successfully complete and defend the Thesis/Project Prospectus by the end of CAH 61000 must enroll in CAH 60500 Thesis/Project Experience in every fall and spring semester until the Thesis/Project is completed.

Technology Requirements

Throughout your studies, you will work with the same tools and platforms professionals use every day giving you practical, hands-on experience with current technology.

What You’ll Need

• A personal computer that meets minimum standards for graphics, processing, and storage
• Ability to install and run specialized software and development tools used in your courses if needed
• Reliable internet access to support downloads, updates, and online collaboration

You will receive a detailed list of required software, platforms, and setup instructions during Student Orientation and in each course. These resources are updated regularly so you’re always working with current industry tools.

Program Length Details

Lindenwood University’s (LU) accelerated online programs offer you choice and flexibility to support your education journey. Time to complete a master’s degree can vary based on course load, transfer credits, and individual pacing. You will tailor a course schedule that keeps you in the driver’s seat

• Transfer Credit: LU allows 9 transfer credits toward a master’s degree and you can complete your degree in as few as 21 credits.
• Accelerated Courses: LU accelerated online programs offer 10 5-week terms per year. By enrolling in two courses per term, you can potentially begin and complete your master’s degree in 7 months.
• Frequent Start Dates: LU offers multiple start dates throughout the year so you can begin your studies when you are ready allowing you to graduate sooner.
• Personalized Degree Plan: LU academic advisors will work with you to tailor your degree plan to support your education goals while balancing your personal and professional responsibilities.