Graduate Certificate In AI and Machine Learning with an Astrophysics-AI Badge

One of our core missions is to increase training opportunities for the Astronomy community in AI/ML methods. We have partnered with the UT Austin Computer and Data Science Online program to create a new, accessible, graduate training program that offers courses in AI/ML methods, which includes an AI-Astronomy application course.

Applications have just opened!


The program equips professionals from all scientific fields with essential AI skills for data analysis, predictive modeling, and research.


The program fosters career advancement and long-term growth in AI-driven fields.

FAQ

  • It is a 100% online graduate certificate, accessible from anywhere.

  • Structured and flexible—on-demand lectures released weekly, and corresponding to a typical semester schedule.

  • Requires 4 (3-credit) courses, including a Machine Learning class, a Deep Learning class, and two electives.

  • Students may earn the Astro-AI badge by enrolling in the AI for Astrophysics course as one of the electives.

  • The 12-credit credential can stand alone or stack onto additional online courses to complete a full 10 course MS degree in AI.

  • The program is accredited through UT Austin, such that courses are transcripted and course credit is transferable to other programs.

  • The program tuition is low-cost ($ 1,250 per course); CosmicAI will offer a small number of student fellowships.

  • Spring 2026 deadlines: Applications are open June 1–September 1. Classes begin January 2026.

  • Applications are open to both national and international prospective students. There is no U.S./Texas residency requirement and no out-of-state tuition.

  • Topics will include application of machine learning and deep learning to astronomy data; curation of training sets; explainable AI methods; simulation-based inference techniques.

  • Undergraduate degree in a computer science related field, math, or natural science, which includes preparation in programming, statistics, and discrete  math. See Spring 2026 Application Guide for more information for more information.

    The Deep Learning and Machine Learning courses are required prior to enrolling in the AI for Astrophysics course.

Important Dates

Fall Application

Application Opens

December 15

Priority Deadline

March 15

Final Deadline

April 15

Decision Released

Late-July to Mid-December

Spring Application

Application Opens

June 1

Priority Deadline

August 1

Final Deadline

September 1

Decision Released

Late-January to Mid-June