We have received several queries regarding our MS in AIDD program. Prospective students can benefit from reviewing our responses to these recurring questions.
If your concern is not covered below, please email ai4dd@rx.umaryland.edu for more information.
Will I learn how to apply AI techniques like machine learning and deep learning hands-on?
Yes! Our program is designed to equip you with practical, hands-on experience in AI methods—including machine learning, deep learning, and data analytics—so you can perform and interpret ML analyses by the time you graduate. Specifically, we teach Python programming and model building approaches. We also cover foundational statistical concepts to ensure all students are well-prepared, regardless of prior coursework or data analysis experience.
While there is an expectation that students engage in applied work, you’ll receive plenty of support through guided exercises, tutorials, and personalized help throughout the program. Aptitude for computer programming and comfort with quantitative thinking are key to successfully mastering the material and applying it to real-world drug development challenges.
What are the class timings?
Recorded lectures (voice over slides), practice problems, reading material, and assignments will be available through Blackboard, our e-learning system. Students can access this material at their own pace and at convenient times in any part of the world as long as they have access to the Internet.
What time commitment should I expect to make for this program?
Each student can take up to two courses (six credits total) per semester. The didactic portion of the program constitutes about 45 hours per three-credit course over approximately four months. Taking into account homework and review time, we estimate a time commitment of one day per week for two courses. Of course, the learning needs of each student will be different.
What if I only want to take one course per semester?
Students are required to select either the four-semester or seven-semester course schedule at the beginning of the program. The MS in AI for Drug Development program must be completed within two years.
Can I request a course waiver?
Typically, course waivers are not supported. All courses are designed with applications of AI to drug development in mind and may offer content you didn't receive in other training. More importantly, students are required to complete 30 credits of courses to graduate.
How can I interact with the lecturers?
Blackboard, our e-learning tool, supports a variety of interactive mechanisms. Each course will have a discussion board established for students to pose questions and receive input from the class as well as the lecturers. There will be pre-specified virtual office hours for faculty. Students can contact faculty via e-mail, phone, and/or other tools (e.g., Blackboard Collaborate).
Will I have access to software?
Students will have access to software such as Python and R, which are free.
Are GRE scores required for admission?
No, GRE scores are not required.
Are TOEFL/IELTS scores required for admission?
Applicants whose native language or language of the home is not English must take the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) or the examination of the International English Language Testing System (IELTS). Visit the School of Graduate Studies for more information.
I am an international student. Can I obtain a student visa if I am accepted into the program?
International students are not eligible for F-1 student visa sponsorship from the University of Maryland, Baltimore due to the entirely online curriculum of the MS in AIDD program. Students can participate in the program from outside the US without a need for a US student visa.
Is this degree equivalent to any other master's degree given by the University of Maryland, Baltimore or will it be listed as an online degree on my diploma?
Yes, the MS in AIDD is equivalent to any other master's degree given by the University of Maryland, Baltimore.
What is the tuition?
The tuition is about $40,000 for the whole program, not including additional fees charged by the University. Exact tuition costs and applicable fees are available online.
Can I pay the tuition and fees in installments?
Students can elect to participate in the University's installment plan. It splits the total cost of the semester into three payments (August, September, and October for Fall, and January, February, and March for Spring). There is a $10 administrative fee per semester to participate in this plan, and your application to participate must be processed before each semester starts. Contact the Student Financial Services Office for more information.
Do I need a lot of work experience to be eligible for entry into the program?
No.
Do I need to send one set of official transcripts and Certificate of Finances Form to the School of Graduate Studies by regular mail at West Lexington Street?
Yes, official transcripts must be mailed to the School of Graduate Studies at W. Lexington Street. A Certificate of Finances isn't needed as the program is 100 percent online and can be completed from your home country.
I am interested in learning how to perform AI analyses but don't need a degree in this field. Is it possible to enroll in just a few selected courses in this program?
Yes, you may apply as a coursework only (CWO) non-degree student with permission from the program director. You are limited to a maximum of two courses. Visit this page for more information.
Are prerequisites required to apply?
Yes, a bachelor's, master's or doctoral degree is required. Some experience in engineering, data sciences, statistics, pharmaceutical sciences or related field is preferred.
As I understand it, Artificial Intelligence requires a good knowledge of statistics and computer programming. What about drug development?
A good foundation in computer programming is recommended, but coursework in statistics or drug development is not required.
Do I have to prepare for any programming, for example: Python or others?
No, the curriculum will teach you how to become skilled in the relevant software.