Engineering Science (Artificial Intelligence) MS

Computer chip in the shape of a human brain.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is a term used to describe machines or software that are capable of addressing problems that one would typically say require some amount of human intelligence to solve.

AI is more widely used in academics to describe computers and computer software that are capable of intelligent behavior. At the University at Buffalo, we are focused on preparing students for a future filled with AI technology by offering an Engineering Science MS program with a focus on AI.

About the Program

This Engineering Sciences MS with a course focus on Artificial Intelligence (AI) is a year and a half (30 credit hour) multidisciplinary program that trains students in the areas of machine learning, AI programming languages, deep learning algorithms, and advanced artificial neural networks that use predictive analytics to solve real-world problems. The program features a set of foundational core courses in AI and the flexibility to choose from elective concentration areas that include data analytics, computational linguistics and information retrieval, machine learning and computer vision, knowledge representation, and robotics.

Over the next 10 years, employment demand is expected to grow more than 22% in AI related career paths, including AI engineers, machine learning engineers, data scientists, research computer scientists, modeling analysts, business intelligence developers and AI managers.

A master’s degree in this area provides students with advanced coursework, research opportunities, and leadership training that opens doors to more career opportunities.

This program is STEM approved, allowing international students the opportunity to apply for the 24-month STEM OPT extension.

Program Director

Mingchen Gao
317 Davis Hall
mgao8@buffalo.edu
(716) 645-2834

Admissions Requirements

To apply to the Engineering Science (Artificial Intelligence) MS program, it is recommended that students hold a bachelor's degree in engineering, computer science, mathematics, physical sciences or a related field. Students should have a solid programming background as indicated by formal coursework or by a comprehensive online (MOOC) study. Applicants with non-engineering degrees are welcome to apply and will be evaluated on an individual basis. 

Applicants must also provide the following application materials:

Application Deadline

We accept applications on a rolling basis throughout the year, but encourage all prospective students to submit their applications by February 15.

Degree Program Specifics

This program is primarily course-based, but students do have the option to complete a masters project, which can include an internship in industry.

Please note this program is NOT a pathway to further education in AI such as a PhD. Students with a Computer Science background, or that intend to one day apply for a PhD program to research AI would be best served by an MS degree from Computer Science and Engineering.

For students who enrolled Falll 2022 and earlier, the curriculumn is comprised of  5 core courses, and either 4 electives and a 3-credit masters project or 5 electives and a capstone essay and presentation in the final semester. The program is flexible and students can enroll either full-time or part-time (if elgible). Students can tailor the program to their own interests and careers via elective courses and degree project.

Effective Fall 2023, the curriculumn is moving to a fixed cohort-style model, comprised of 8 core classes (24 credits), 1 elective, and 1 capstone experience (3-credit project or internship, or a second 3-credit elective).

Course Requirements

Have questions?

For degree-specific related questions, please contact the Graduate Coordinator at eas-grad@buffalo.edu.

For admissions-related questions, plesae contact gradeng@buffalo.edu.