AI Data Specialist

Why AI Data Specialist?

AI data specialists sit at the intersection of technology, data, and innovation, turning complex information into intelligent solutions that shape how organizations operate. In this program, you’ll learn how data fuels automation, improves decision-making, and powers AI systems used across business, manufacturing, and beyond. It’s a career for curious problem-solvers who want to work at the leading edge of technology.

This program is a shared program with Waukesha County Technical College (WCTC). Students experience hands-on, career-focused learning using industry tools and technologies. You’ll work with industry tools to collect, analyze, and model data while exploring responsible and ethical uses of artificial intelligence. Through projects, an internship, and a capstone experience, you’ll build a strong technical foundation and a professional portfolio that demonstrates your ability to design and deploy AI-driven solutions.

Build advanced skills in Python, SQL, machine learning, and big-data environments.
Design AI-driven solutions such as predictive models, dashboards, and intelligent systems.
Apply ethical principles to ensure responsible and transparent use of AI technologies.
Develop analytical thinking and pattern-recognition skills to solve complex problems.
Enter a fast-growing, high-demand field with strong career versatility and advancement potential.

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Program Facts

Total Credits

62 Credits

Degree Type

Associate in Applied Science (AAS)

Program Length

Two Years

Delivery Method

Hybrid

Location

AMETA^® Center, Online

Start Dates

Fall, Spring

Estimated Program Cost

$11,400.00

View Cost of Attendance

Financial Aid Eligibility

Fully Eligible

View Types of Aid

Program Outcomes

Graduates leave ready to succeed in their careers. Each year, data from Mid-State's Graduate Survey and statewide reports show consistently high satisfaction and strong starting salaries. Here's a snapshot of what success looks like after graduation.

Career Opportunities

AI Data Technician

AI Support Analyst

Machine Learning Data Specialist

Manufacturing Data Analyst

Smart Manufacturing Data Technician

$102k Median Annual Salary

Recent program grads in Wisconsin earned a starting salary of $101,889. Source: Lightcast Data Set

147

Average Monthly Hires

147 of recent Wisconsin program grads landed jobs within six months of graduation. Source: Lightcast Data Set

Program Details

Take a closer look at what the program offers and what to expect.

Program Courses

Following is the list of courses within the program. Your course plan may vary, and you'll get a recommended sequence once you're enrolled. See the program information guide below for full course details or talk with your advisor.

Program Information Guide (PDF)

Full-Time Curriculum (62 Total Credits)

Credit for Prior Learning (CPL) options are available for some courses.

Term 1: (7 Credits)

Course Number	Course Name	CPL	Credits
10156119	Data Concepts	No	2
10605133	Intro to Operation Tech	No	2
10804133	Mathematics and Logic	No	3

Term 2: (7 Credits)

Course Number	Course Name	CPL	Credits
10156107	Data Modeling	No	2
10156109	Intro to SQL	No	2
10156114	Business Applications of AI	No	3

Term 3: (9 Credits)

Course Number	Course Name	CPL	Credits
10152101	Python Programming	No	1
10156102	Advanced SQL	No	3
10156110	Data Visualization & Reporting	No	2
10801136	English Composition I	Yes	3

Term 4: (4 Credits)

Course Number	Course Name	CPL	Credits
10150190	Network Fundamentals	No	2
10156113	Python Data Manipulation	No	2

Term 5: (6 Credits)

Course Number	Course Name	CPL	Credits
10804189	Introductory Statistics	Yes	3
10809198	Intro to Psychology	Yes	3

Term 6: (7 Credits)

Course Number	Course Name	CPL	Credits
10156111	Intro to Data Analytics	No	2
10664158	Operational Tech Applications	No	2
10801197	Technical Reporting	No	3

Term 7: (7 Credits)

Course Number	Course Name	CPL	Credits
10156112	Predictive Analytics	No	2
10156115	Computer Vision	No	2
10664150	Industrial Data Acquisition	No	3

Term 8: (1 Credits)

Course Number	Course Name	CPL	Credits
10890108	Employment Success	No	1

Term 9: (10 Credits)

Course Number	Course Name	CPL	Credits
10156117	Big Data Engineering	No	3
10156118	AI/Data Capstone	No	4
10809143	Microeconomics	No	3

Term 10: (2 Credits)

Course Number	Course Name	CPL	Credits
10156116	Natural Language Processing	No	2

Term 11: (2 Credits)

Course Number	Course Name	CPL	Credits
10107123	Internship IT	No	2

Program Outcomes

Employers will expect graduates of this program to be able to:

Communicate with stakeholders.
Acquire data from a variety of common data sources.
Transform data to meet business and technical needs.
Evaluate machine learning models.
Implement AI solutions.
Examine the various applications of AI in industry.
Navigate the ethical implications of various types of AI solutions.

Employability Skills

Alongside your career training, you'll develop key workplace strengths. Explore the additional skills you'll build.

Employability Skills (PDF)

Technical Standards

To succeed in this program, you'll need to meet certain technical standards. These are the key skills and abilities needed for the program and future career success—with or without reasonable accommodations. Be sure to review them carefully before you apply.

Technical Standards (PDF)

Career pathways help you build your education step by step. Each stage offers one or more credentials that are recognized by employers and lead to real jobs—and you can keep building toward your career goals as you go.

Prior Learning

Certificate

Technical Degree

Associate Degree

Bachelor's Degree

Get credit for what you already know. You may be able to earn college credit for prior learning through skills you’ve gained through high school classes, previous college work, self-study, military training, jobs, or volunteer experience.

Credit for Prior Learning
High School Dual Credit
Mid-State Fast-Track – Open to high school students

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