- NPS launches AI master’s degree program for 20 Sailors and Marines in the Naval Intelligence Corps
- The program will train personnel in machine learning and emerging AI technologies.
- of 2026 Naval Summit On August 27, we examine digital modernization, autonomous systems, and cyber resilience
The Naval Postgraduate School has launched a new master’s degree program in artificial intelligence for an initial cohort of 20 sailors and Marines from the Naval Intelligence Command, Federal News Network reported Monday.
Commander of Naval Intelligence Command, Vice Adm. Michael Vernazza, has established a one-year pilot program for officers who already have programming experience or a degree in computer science, Randy Pugh, NPS deputy secretary for war research and director of the Office of War Research, said in an interview on FNN’s “Ask the CIO.”
Mr. Vernazza will deliver the keynote address at the following venue: 2026 Naval Summit. The Aug. 27 event will bring together senior Navy leaders, defense officials, and industry executives to discuss digital modernization, autonomous systems, cyber resilience, and other technologies shaping the future of naval operations. Book now.
Pugh said students will be participating in the program full-time starting this summer.
What role will graduates play after completing the program?
Pugh said the Naval Intelligence Corps has identified operational billets where graduates can support AI education and deployment efforts after completing the degree program.
“The other thing that Admiral Vernazza and his team understand is the value of the officers when they exit the program,” Pugh said. “They identify these billets and these jobs within the operational forces and continue to go and inform people about AI and educate people about what AI is, what it can do, and what it can’t do. They also lead these efforts as change agents and thought leaders within these organizations to accelerate the adoption and integration of AI in the Navy.”
The curriculum includes instruction in machine learning concepts such as supervised learning, unsupervised learning, and reinforcement learning, as well as coursework focused on emerging AI technologies and applications.
Students also complete dissertations and capstone projects designed to address operational challenges.
How is NVIDIA supporting NPS AI education efforts?
NPS is expanding its AI education efforts through a new master’s degree program, as well as strengthening technology partnerships to support student training and research efforts.
Pugh said NPS’ partnership with NVIDIA will give students and faculty access to the company’s Deep Learning Institute and AI-related training resources.
NPS will also receive a $15 million AI supercomputer and access to NVIDIA’s Omniverse modeling and simulation platform through a joint research and development agreement signed in December 2024.
