A new study reveals that California ranks eighth nationwide for online searches related to AI and ML courses, certification, and degree programs.
The research by e-learning platform, eLearning Industry, analyzed state-level search data from Google Keyword Planner for keywords such as “AI and ML courses,” “AI certification online,” “artificial intelligence degree,” “masters in AI,” “AI training,” and other related terms. The study compared total searches to each state’s population to determine search interest per 100,000 residents.
California ranks eighth, with 44.98 searches per 100,000 residents for AI and ML education, 32.2% higher than the national average of 34.04. The Golden State recorded a total of 17,840 searches from a population of 39,663,800.
Looking at the study, a spokesperson from eLearning Industry commented:
“The surge in AI-related education searches in California shows how Americans are embracing the future of work. From online certifications to advanced degree programs, people are actively upskilling to stay competitive in an AI-driven economy.”
“This trend highlights a growing national priority – adapting to the rapid technological transformation that’s reshaping industries, classrooms, and career pathways alike.”
Table for Extended Results:
| Top 10 U.S. States With the Strongest Interest in AI Learning | ||
| US States | Searches per 100,000 Residents | Rank |
| Virginia | 60.87 | 1 |
| Maryland | 58.96 | 2 |
| New Jersey | 54.67 | 3 |
| Georgia | 50.19 | 4 |
| New York | 48.96 | 5 |
| Massachusetts | 47.46 | 6 |
| Texas | 45.02 | 7 |
| California | 44.98 | 8 |
| Washington | 44.92 | 9 |
| Wyoming | 44.06 | 10 |
The study was conducted by eLearning Industry, a global destination for eLearning professionals, offering insights, best practices, and research in the field of education and digital learning.
Methodology
The study analyzed state-level search interest data for 28 AI education-related keywords across all 50 U.S. states using Google Keyword Planner. The total search volumes for terms such as “AI and ML courses,” “AI certification online,” “artificial intelligence degree,” and “masters in AI” were combined to calculate overall interest per state. Population data for 2025 was used to standardize total searches per 100,000 residents, producing a comparable rate of AI education interest nationwide. States were then ranked from highest to lowest based on their standardized search frequency.
Data Sources:
- Google Keyword Planner
- Research Data → https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1OhTpkOSigJb5EDl8etu3xtLWLqrfiNxOIHMMs6TAQPo/edit?gid=0#gid=0
- Study By → elearningindustry.com
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