Fully online degree
MS in Applied Ontology
Shape the future of data and AI
The University at Buffalo's Master of Science in Applied Ontology is the first fully online master’s program in this groundbreaking field. Applied ontology blends philosophy and information science to solve one of today’s biggest challenges—helping systems, organizations and disciplines speak the same data language.
- Pioneer the field. Study at the only university offering an MS dedicated to applied ontology.
- Learn from the experts. Work with faculty who founded the National Center for Ontology Research, a global hub for this discipline.
- Build your network. Connect with an international community of researchers and professionals.
- Learn from anywhere. Complete the program entirely online with flexible pacing and competitive tuition.
You’ll gain a strong academic foundation, practical skills and a clear path into fast-growing industries where ontology expertise is in high demand.
- Credits: 30 graduate credits
- Format: Fully online
- Schedule: Flexible pacing for full-time or part-time study
- Duration: Typically completed in one year full-time
UB’s MS in Applied Ontology combines rigorous coursework with applied learning. Students can take part in paid, credit-bearing internships or research partnerships that bring ontology principles to real-world systems and technologies.
Applied ontology brings together philosophy and technology to make complex systems work together.
You will:
- Study the human side of ontology, where experts define and organize shared concepts
- Explore the engineering side, developing software and tools that apply ontologies to data-driven problems
- Gain practical experience through applied research and internships
Courses cover formal logic, data modeling, software tools and the philosophical foundations that make it all possible. You’ll graduate ready to connect ideas across disciplines and improve how data flows across organizations.
Ontologists are needed by industry, government and research institutions to design and manage large databases, model complex systems and develop tools for data and enterprise integration. UB’s strong focus in ontology has helped many graduates launch successful careers in both the public and private sectors.
Graduates are prepared for roles in:
- Banking and finance
- Biomedical sciences and health care
- Pharmaceutical and manufacturing industries
- E-commerce and technology firms
- Government agencies and intelligence services
These skills also fuel progress in AI, genetics research, product design and voice-recognition technologies. Employers value graduates who can think critically, structure information clearly and translate theory into practice.
UB is home to the National Center for Ontological Research (NCOR) and is a partner institution of the National Center for Biomedical Ontology (NCBO), a consortium funded by the National Institutes of Health with partners at Stanford University and the Mayo Clinic.
NCOR was established in Buffalo in 2005 to advance the quality of ontological research and development and to establish tools for evaluation and quality assurance.
Rolling Admissions
Apply by August 1 for Fall or January 5 for Spring (international applicants should apply earlier).
Step 1: Review the Application Requirements
To apply for our MS program, you’ll need:
- Bachelor’s degree (GPA of 3.0 or higher, exceptions possible)
- Writing sample (approx. 2,500 words)
- Statement of purpose (500 words or fewer)
- Resume or CV
- Two letters of recommendation
- Proof of English proficiency for international applicants
International students should review UB’s International admissions page for IELTS, PTE or TOEFL score requirements before applying.
Attention International Applicants
The Applied Ontology MS is a fully online program and does not meet the requirements to maintain student visa status. You can learn more about student visa requirements from International Student Services.
Step 2: Start your Graduate Application
Apply using UB’s online application system.
- Create an account
- Choose your program and term
- Follow the instructions for the College of Arts and Sciences
- Returning users: Log in to check your status or update your application
Non-refundable application fee: $75
After you submit your UB graduate application, you’ll be prompted to make your payment online by credit card or ACH through Nelnet.
U.S. citizens or current permanent residents may request a fee waiver through the application portal after completing the graduate application and uploading all required materials.
