Tennessee Career Guide | 2026 43 age salary for an artificial intelligence-re- lated job in the U.S. is about $143,000 per year, with entry-level roles often starting above $115,000. Tennessee salaries typically trend slightly below national averages but remain well above median wages for most other career fields, particularly as demand for AI skills continues to outpace supply. Common AI-related job titles include AI engineer, data scientist, machine learning engineer, natural language processing spe- cialist, robotics engineer and AI product manager. Other roles focus on applying AI rather than building it, such as business an- alysts, technology consultants, AI integra- tion specialists and emerging positions in AI ethics and governance. Education pathways into AI careers Education requirements vary by role. Many technical positions require a bache- lor’s degree in computer science, engineer- ing, mathematics or a related field, along with strong skills in programming lan- guages such as Python or R and experi- ence with data analysis. Advanced roles often prefer or require graduate-level edu- cation, especially for those working on model development, research or leader- ship. Certifications can also play a critical role, particularly for professionals transi- tioning into AI from other industries. Lipscomb launches Nashville’s first applied AI graduate program Recognizing the growing workforce need, Lipscomb University launched the first graduate program in applied artificial in- telligence in Nashville in 2024. The pro- gram includes a Master of Science in Artificial Intelligence and a graduate cer- tificate option, with an emphasis on real- world application. “This technology is a major disruptor — and opportunity — that is creating a shift in the workplace. AI won't replace you, but someone who uses it successfully will,” said Lipscomb University President Candice McQueen. “With the knowledge to use AI successfully, professionals can harness the power of the technology for certain founda- tional tasks that will allow them to focus on more strategic work. The demand will also increase for highly trained professionals to meet these needs, who will be on the front- lines as this technology continues to evolve.” Steve Nordstrom, associate dean of Lip- scomb’s School of Computing and pro- gram director, said demand extends well beyond traditional technology companies. “As the demand for AI talent continues to catapult across industries such as health care, finance, manufacturing and enter- tainment, students are equipped with spe- cialized skills needed to thrive in high-demand roles,” Nordstrom said. “By bridging the gap between academia and industry, Lipscomb’s AI program serves as a catalyst for technological innovation and economic growth in the Nashville market and beyond.” AI programs across Tennessee In addition to Lipscomb, other Tennessee institutions also offer a variety of AI-re- lated educational offerings. These include Austin Peay State University, Christian Brothers University, Carson-Newman University, East Tennessee State Univer- sity, Middle Tennessee State University, Tennessee Technological University, the University of Tennessee-Knoxville and Vanderbilt University. Preparing for a fast-evolving field For students and adults considering an AI career, experts emphasize adaptability and continuous learning. As the technology continues to evolve, professionals who can combine technical expertise with ethical judgment, communication skills and indus- try knowledge will be especially valuable. As artificial intelligence becomes embed- ded across nearly every sector of the econ- omy, Tennessee workers with AI skills are positioned to find strong job prospects, competitive pay and opportunities to help shape how technology is used responsibly in the workplace. Links to learn more about this career: Lipscomb Applied Artificial Intelligence https://lipscomb.edu/academics/programs/ap- plied-artificial-intelligence-ms-graduate-certificate US Bureau of Labor Statistics https://www.bls.gov/opub/mlr/2025/article/in- corporating-ai-impacts-in-bls-employment-projec- tions.htm Tennessee’s Top Careers Lipscomb University offers a Master of Science in Artificial Intelligence and a graduate certificate option offered in in- person, online and hybrid formats and designed for both working professionals and career changers, with an emphasis on real-world application. Learn more at www.lipscomb.edu and search arti- ficial intelligence. The Information on this career is submitted and sponsored by
