MA in Philosophy

As an MA student in the Department of Philosophy, you join a research-driven program known for both theoretical depth and real-world engagement. Faculty are active scholars who mentor students closely and involve them in ongoing conversations in philosophy and related fields.

UB’s program stands out for strengths in:

• Applied Ontology: Connecting philosophy with data science, artificial intelligence and biomedical informatics to address challenges in knowledge organization and interdisciplinary communication.
• Ethics and Applied Ethics: Examining moral questions in health care, research, technology and public policy through rigorous philosophical analysis.
• History of Philosophy: Studying early modern philosophy and other major traditions to illuminate contemporary debates.
• Moral Psychology and Social Epistemology: Including Experimental Philosophy and research that connects philosophy with psychology and the social sciences to study belief, disagreement and moral judgment.
• Philosophy of Science: Analyzing how scientific knowledge is produced, evaluated and applied, including work in the metaphysics of science.
• Philosophy, Politics and Economics (PPE): Integrating political philosophy, economics and social science methods to study justice, institutions and collective decision making.

You will study in a department where ideas are debated seriously, refined carefully and applied beyond the classroom.

Many MA graduates continue into PhD programs in philosophy or related disciplines. Others pursue professional paths in policy, ethics, research, law and data-focused fields.

Degree type: Master of Arts (MA)
Field: Philosophy
Program length: Typically two years

• Mentor-based learning: Work closely with a faculty advisor who guides your coursework and culminating project or thesis.
• Strong foundations: Complete eight formal graduate-level philosophy courses across core areas of the discipline.
• Flexible electives: With approval, take selected courses outside the department to support interdisciplinary interests.
• Culminating experience: Complete a master’s project or thesis under faculty supervision that demonstrates sustained philosophical research and writing.
• Advanced Certificate in PPE: As part of your MA in Philosophy, you can complete an Advanced Certificate in PPE offered through the PPE Program
  

The MA is designed as a terminal degree. Students who wish to continue may apply to the PhD program after completing MA requirements. In some cases, PhD students may be required to complete an MA thesis before advancing.

You will graduate with advanced knowledge of philosophy and the ability to apply its methods with precision and independence. Students will:

• Demonstrate a working knowledge of the history of philosophy, contemporary value theory and contemporary metaphysics and epistemology
• Employ tools of critical reasoning in their own thinking and in evaluating the work of others
• Read carefully, critically and charitably
• Write clear, rigorous and well-argued papers
• Accept constructive criticism and revise work accordingly
• Present philosophy papers to a professional philosophical audience within and outside a specialization

Through your culminating project or thesis, you will develop an original research question, conduct sustained analysis and produce a polished piece of scholarly work.

Core structure and requirements:

• Eight graduate-level philosophy courses
• Additional elective credits
• A mentored master’s project or thesis

For full policies and requirements, consult the official Graduate Course Catalog and the department’s Graduate Handbook.

Graduates of UB’s MA in Philosophy program are prepared for a wide range of academic and professional roles. The skills you gain, critical analysis, structured argument, clear writing and intellectual independence, translate across sectors.

• Preparation for PhD study in philosophy or related disciplines
• Research roles in policy, ethics or social science settings
• Positions in public policy and government
• Health care ethics and clinical ethics support roles
• Data and information management, especially in ontology-related work
• Law and other professional programs

UB’s emphasis on mentorship, rigorous writing and research development gives graduates a strong foundation for competitive doctoral programs and intellectually demanding careers.

Ready to advance your study of philosophy and produce original graduate-level research?

For more information about the MA in Philosophy, please reach out: