Based on what the OP wrote, Georgia Tech's OMSCS program would be worthwhile, especially if they are interested in the systems track. The UT Austin program is a

Based on what the OP wrote, Georgia Tech's OMSCS program would be worthwhile, especially if they are interested in the systems track. The UT Austin program is also modeled on GA Tech's program and looks especially good for its theoretical ML courses. OMSCS has a lot of flexibility in being able to attenuate your course load, gives 6 years to complete the degree, and your peers are mostly working professionals. That's a big advantage of online-first programs.