| Course Level: | Bachelor's | |
|---|---|---|
| Course Program: | Law & Legal Studies | |
| Course Duration: | 4 Years | |
| Course Language: | English | |
| Required Degree | Class 12th | |
| Course Level: | Bachelor's | |
|---|---|---|
| Course Duration: | 4 Years | |
| Course Language: | English | |
| Required Degree | Class 12th | |
1. Location
Buffalo State University is located in the heart of Buffalo, New York, near the scenic Delaware Park and cultural landmarks like the Burchfield Penney Art Center and the Albright-Knox Art Gallery.
Buffalo is New York State’s second-largest city and is known for its affordable living, vibrant arts scene, and proximity to Niagara Falls.
2. Academics
Buffalo State offers undergraduate, graduate, and certificate programs in a variety of fields.
The university is particularly renowned for programs in:
Teacher education (historically rooted as a teacher's college)
Art and Design (with ties to the Burchfield Penney Art Center)
Criminal Justice
Business
Social Work
Communication and Media Studies
Buffalo State emphasizes hands-on learning, offering internships, co-ops, and opportunities for research.
3. Student Population
Buffalo State is home to approximately 7,000 undergraduate and graduate students.
The university is known for its diverse student body, with students from across the U.S. and more than 40 countries.
4. Campus Life
Buffalo State provides a vibrant campus life with more than 80 student organizations, including clubs, Greek life, and academic societies.
Its Division III athletics teams, the Buffalo State Bengals, compete in sports like football, basketball, soccer, and track and field.
The university offers a mix of on-campus housing options and dining facilities.
5. Research and Partnerships
The institution is committed to applied research and is involved in partnerships with local businesses, schools, and cultural institutions in the Buffalo area.
The Great Lakes Center, located at Buffalo State, conducts environmental research on the Great Lakes ecosystem.
6. Burchfield Penney Art Center
Buffalo State is home to the Burchfield Penney Art Center, a museum and research center dedicated to American art, with a focus on the works of Charles E. Burchfield and artists from the Buffalo area.
7. Affordability and Accessibility
As part of the SUNY system, Buffalo State is known for offering a high-quality education at an affordable cost.
It also provides robust financial aid and scholarship opportunities for both domestic and international students.
8. Notable Alumni
Buffalo State has a long list of successful alumni, including:
Byron Brown (Mayor of Buffalo)
Cindy Sherman (renowned visual artist and photographer)
John Rzeznik (lead singer of the Goo Goo Dolls)
9. International Student Support
The university welcomes a growing number of international students and offers resources like the International Student and Scholar Services Office to help with visas, cultural adaptation, and academic success.
Strong Community Ties: The university emphasizes community engagement and social responsibility.
Small Class Sizes: Students benefit from a more personalized education experience.
Dynamic Arts and Culture: The campus and the city offer rich opportunities in arts, music, and history.
Affordable Education: As part of SUNY, Buffalo State is more cost-effective compared to private institutions.
Buffalo State offers over 75 undergraduate majors in various disciplines, spanning arts, sciences, education, and professional studies. These programs emphasize hands-on learning through internships, research opportunities, and fieldwork.
Popular Undergraduate Majors
Arts and Humanities
Art (B.A., B.F.A.)
Art Education (B.S.)
Design (B.F.A.)
Theater (B.A.)
Music (B.A.)
Philosophy (B.A.)
English (B.A.)
Science and Mathematics
Biology (B.A., B.S.)
Chemistry (B.A., B.S.)
Mathematics (B.A., B.S.)
Physics (B.A., B.S.)
Environmental Science (B.S.)
Social Sciences and Humanities
Psychology (B.A.)
Sociology (B.A.)
Anthropology (B.A.)
Political Science (B.A.)
History (B.A.)
Economics (B.A.)
Business and Communication
Business Administration (B.S.)
Communication (B.A.)
Public Communication (B.A.)
Journalism (B.A.)
Media Production (B.A.)
Education
Childhood Education (Grades 1–6) (B.S.)
Early Childhood Education (Birth–Grade 2) (B.S.)
Exceptional Education (Special Education) (B.S.)
Applied and Professional Studies
Computer Information Systems (B.S.)
Criminal Justice (B.S.)
Social Work (B.S.)
Health and Wellness (B.S.)
Fashion and Textile Technology (B.S.)
Mechanical Engineering Technology (B.S.)
Electrical Engineering Technology (B.S.)
Buffalo State offers over 60 graduate programs, including master’s degrees, advanced certificates, and post-baccalaureate teacher certification programs. These programs are designed to advance career goals, deepen subject-matter knowledge, and provide professional certifications.
Education and Teaching
Early Childhood and Childhood Education (M.S.Ed.)
Literacy Specialist (M.S.Ed.)
Exceptional Education (Special Education) (M.S.Ed.)
TESOL (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages) (M.S.Ed.)
Educational Leadership (Certificate of Advanced Study)
Arts and Design
Art Education (M.S.Ed.)
Creative Studies (M.S.)
Museum Studies (M.A.)
Fine Arts (M.F.A.)
Science and Mathematics
Data Science and Analytics (M.S.)
Multidisciplinary Studies (M.S.)
Great Lakes Environmental Science (M.A.)
Social Sciences and Humanities
Applied Economics (M.A.)
Public and Nonprofit Management (M.P.A.)
History and Social Studies Education (M.A.)
Professional and Applied Programs
Criminal Justice (M.S.)
Business Management (Post-Baccalaureate Certificate)
Industrial Technology (M.S.)
Higher Education and Student Affairs Administration (M.S.)
Program Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees Per Year (USD) (In-State) |
Tuition Fees Per Year (USD) (Out-of-State/International) |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Art (B.A., B.F.A.) |
4 Years |
$7,070 |
$16,980 |
|
Art Education (B.S.) |
4 Years |
$7,070 |
$16,980 |
|
Design (B.F.A.) |
4 Years |
$7,070 |
$16,980 |
|
Theater (B.A.) |
4 Years |
$7,070 |
$16,980 |
|
Music (B.A.) |
4 Years |
$7,070 |
$16,980 |
|
Biology (B.A., B.S.) |
4 Years |
$7,070 |
$16,980 |
|
Chemistry (B.A., B.S.) |
4 Years |
$7,070 |
$16,980 |
|
Mathematics (B.A., B.S.) |
4 Years |
$7,070 |
$16,980 |
|
Physics (B.A., B.S.) |
4 Years |
$7,070 |
$16,980 |
|
Environmental Science (B.S.) |
4 Years |
$7,070 |
$16,980 |
|
Psychology (B.A.) |
4 Years |
$7,070 |
$16,980 |
|
Sociology (B.A.) |
4 Years |
$7,070 |
$16,980 |
|
Anthropology (B.A.) |
4 Years |
$7,070 |
$16,980 |
|
Political Science (B.A.) |
4 Years |
$7,070 |
$16,980 |
|
History (B.A.) |
4 Years |
$7,070 |
$16,980 |
|
Economics (B.A.) |
4 Years |
$7,070 |
$16,980 |
|
Business Administration (B.S.) |
4 Years |
$7,070 |
$16,980 |
|
Communication (B.A.) |
4 Years |
$7,070 |
$16,980 |
|
Public Communication (B.A.) |
4 Years |
$7,070 |
$16,980 |
|
Journalism (B.A.) |
4 Years |
$7,070 |
$16,980 |
|
Media Production (B.A.) |
4 Years |
$7,070 |
$16,980 |
|
Childhood Education (Grades 1–6) (B.S.) |
4 Years |
$7,070 |
$16,980 |
|
Early Childhood Education (B.S.) |
4 Years |
$7,070 |
$16,980 |
|
Exceptional Education (Special Education) (B.S.) |
4 Years |
$7,070 |
$16,980 |
|
Computer Information Systems (B.S.) |
4 Years |
$7,070 |
$16,980 |
|
Criminal Justice (B.S.) |
4 Years |
$7,070 |
$16,980 |
|
Social Work (B.S.) |
4 Years |
$7,070 |
$16,980 |
|
Health and Wellness (B.S.) |
4 Years |
$7,070 |
$16,980 |
|
Fashion and Textile Technology (B.S.) |
4 Years |
$7,070 |
$16,980 |
|
Mechanical Engineering Technology (B.S.) |
4 Years |
$7,070 |
$16,980 |
|
Electrical Engineering Technology (B.S.) |
4 Years |
$7,070 |
$16,980 |
Course Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees Per Year (USD) (In-State) |
Tuition Fees Per Year (USD) (Out-of-State/International) |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Art Education (M.S.Ed.) |
2 Years |
$11,310 |
$24,390 |
|
Biology (M.A., M.S.) |
2 Years |
$11,310 |
$24,390 |
|
Business and Marketing Education (M.S.Ed.) |
2 Years |
$11,310 |
$24,390 |
|
Chemistry (M.A., M.S.) |
2 Years |
$11,310 |
$24,390 |
|
Childhood and Early Childhood Education (M.S.Ed.) |
2 Years |
$11,310 |
$24,390 |
|
Creative Studies (M.S.) |
2 Years |
$11,310 |
$24,390 |
|
Criminal Justice (M.S.) |
2 Years |
$11,310 |
$24,390 |
|
Data Science and Analytics (M.S.) |
2 Years |
$11,310 |
$24,390 |
|
Educational Leadership (Certificate of Advanced Study) |
2 Years |
$11,310 |
$24,390 |
|
Exceptional Education (Special Education) (M.S.Ed.) |
2 Years |
$11,310 |
$24,390 |
|
English (M.A.) |
2 Years |
$11,310 |
$24,390 |
|
Environmental Science and Great Lakes Ecosystems (M.A.) |
2 Years |
$11,310 |
$24,390 |
|
History and Social Studies Education (M.A., M.S.Ed.) |
2 Years |
$11,310 |
$24,390 |
|
Higher Education and Student Affairs Administration (M.S.) |
2 Years |
$11,310 |
$24,390 |
|
Industrial Technology (M.S.) |
2 Years |
$11,310 |
$24,390 |
|
Literacy Specialist (M.S.Ed.) |
2 Years |
$11,310 |
$24,390 |
|
Mathematics Education (M.S.Ed.) |
2 Years |
$11,310 |
$24,390 |
|
Museum Studies (M.A.) |
2 Years |
$11,310 |
$24,390 |
|
Multidisciplinary Studies (M.S.) |
2 Years |
$11,310 |
$24,390 |
|
Physics Education (M.S.Ed.) |
2 Years |
$11,310 |
$24,390 |
|
Public and Nonprofit Management (M.P.A.) |
2 Years |
$11,310 |
$24,390 |
|
Social Studies Education (7–12) (M.S.Ed.) |
2 Years |
$11,310 |
$24,390 |
|
Speech-Language Pathology (M.S.) |
2 Years |
$11,310 |
$24,390 |
|
Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL) (M.S.Ed.) |
2 Years |
$11,310 |
$24,390 |
|
Urban and Regional Planning (M.S.) |
2 Years |
$11,310 |
$24,390 |
Program Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees Per Year (USD) (In-State) |
Tuition Fees Per Year (USD) (Out-of-State/International) |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Educational Leadership (C.A.S.) |
2 Years |
$11,310 |
$24,390 |
|
School Building Leader (C.A.S.) |
1–2 Years |
$11,310 |
$24,390 |
|
School District Leader (C.A.S.) |
1–2 Years |
$11,310 |
$24,390 |
|
Creative Studies (Post-Master's C.A.S.) |
1–2 Years |
$11,310 |
$24,390 |
Affordable Tuition:
As part of the SUNY system, Buffalo State offers affordable tuition compared to private institutions, making it an attractive choice for international students.
Diverse Campus:
Students from more than 40 countries study at Buffalo State, fostering a multicultural and inclusive community.
Academic Excellence:
Over 75 undergraduate and 60 graduate programs in fields such as education, business, arts, sciences, and technology.
Support for International Students:
Services like visa support, orientation programs, and cultural integration assistance.
Location Advantage:
Buffalo is an affordable and vibrant city, close to Niagara Falls and the Canadian border, offering ample cultural and recreational opportunities.
Choose Your Program:
Review the list of undergraduate programs offered at Buffalo State to select a major.
Visit: Buffalo State Academic Programs.
Submit Your Application:
Apply through the SUNY Application Portal or the Common Application.
Application Fee: $50 (non-refundable).
Submit Required Documents:
Official high school transcripts (translated into English if needed).
Proof of English language proficiency:
TOEFL iBT: Minimum score of 79.
IELTS: Minimum score of 6.5.
Duolingo: Minimum score of 105 (accepted as an alternative).
Financial documentation proving the ability to cover tuition and living expenses.
Copy of the identification page of your passport.
Track Your Application:
After submission, you can track your application status through the SUNY or Buffalo State portal.
Receive Admission Decision:
Admission decisions are usually communicated within a few weeks of application submission.
Submit Enrollment Deposit:
After admission, submit a deposit to secure your spot at Buffalo State.
Fall Semester (August Start): Applications typically close in early July.
Spring Semester (January Start): Applications typically close in early December.
Choose Your Program:
Explore graduate programs at Buffalo State.
Visit: Buffalo State Graduate Programs.
Submit Your Application:
Apply online through the Buffalo State Graduate Application Portal.
Application Fee: $65 (non-refundable).
Submit Required Documents:
Official transcripts showing completion of a bachelor’s degree (evaluated by World Education Services (WES) or a similar service if the degree is from outside the U.S.).
Proof of English language proficiency:
TOEFL iBT: Minimum score of 79.
IELTS: Minimum score of 6.5.
Additional program-specific requirements (e.g., GRE/GMAT scores, portfolio, or audition for certain programs).
Statement of purpose/personal essay.
Two to three letters of recommendation.
Resume or CV (for professional programs).
Financial documentation and passport copy.
Track Your Application:
After submission, you can track your application status through the graduate admissions portal.
Admission Decision:
Decisions are typically issued within 4–6 weeks after all required documents are received.
Fall Semester (August Start): Deadlines vary by program but typically close in early July.
Spring Semester (January Start): Deadlines vary by program but typically close in early December.
Buffalo State typically offers two main intakes for both undergraduate and graduate programs:
Intake |
Application Deadline |
Start Date |
|---|---|---|
|
Fall Intake |
Early July (Undergraduate/Graduate) |
Late August |
|
Spring Intake |
Early December (Undergraduate/Graduate) |
Late January |
Some graduate programs may have rolling admissions or specific deadlines. Always confirm with the respective department.
Academic Requirements:
Completion of high school/secondary education or equivalent with strong academic performance.
Minimum GPA of 2.5 on a 4.0 scale (or equivalent).
English Language Proficiency:
International students whose first language is not English must demonstrate proficiency:
TOEFL iBT: Minimum score of 79
IELTS: Minimum score of 6.5
Duolingo English Test: Minimum score of 105
PTE Academic: Minimum score of 53
Additional Requirements:
Official high school transcripts (translated into English if necessary).
Copy of passport for international applicants.
Financial documentation showing proof of ability to cover tuition and living expenses.
Some programs, such as art, design, or music, may require a portfolio or audition.
Academic Requirements:
A bachelor’s degree or equivalent from an accredited institution with a minimum GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale (some programs may accept a lower GPA).
Specific programs may require prerequisite coursework.
English Language Proficiency:
International students must demonstrate proficiency:
TOEFL iBT: Minimum score of 79
IELTS: Minimum score of 6.5
Duolingo English Test: Minimum score of 105
PTE Academic: Minimum score of 53
Additional Requirements:
Official transcripts from previous institutions (evaluated by WES or other credential evaluation services for international transcripts).
Statement of Purpose or personal essay.
Letters of Recommendation (typically 2–3, depending on the program).
Resume or CV for professional programs.
GRE or GMAT scores (if required by the program).
Portfolio or writing samples (for specific programs such as art, design, or creative studies).
Ranking Platform |
Category |
Ranking |
|---|---|---|
|
QS World University Rankings |
Not Ranked Globally |
N/A |
|
US News & World Report |
Regional Universities (North) |
Ranked Top Tier |
|
US News & World Report |
Best Undergraduate Teaching (Regional) |
Ranked in Top 50 |
|
US News & World Report |
Public Schools (Regional Universities - North) |
Ranked in Top 20 |
|
Niche.com |
Best College Locations in America |
B+ Rating |
|
College Factual |
Best Value Colleges in New York |
High Ranking |
Scholarship Name |
Eligibility |
Award Amount (USD) |
Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Presidential Scholarship |
- Undergraduate international students. |
Up to $2,500 per year |
Based on academic excellence (merit-based). |
|
Muriel A. Howard Honors Program Scholarship |
- Admitted to Honors Program. |
Partial tuition coverage |
Must maintain a strong GPA to renew annually. |
|
International Student Scholarship |
- Undergraduate international students with merit. |
(up to $1,500 per year) |
Academic achievement and community involvement. |
|
Graduate Assistantships |
- Graduate students. |
Tuition waiver + stipend |
Requires work as teaching/research assistant. |
|
Phi Theta Kappa Transfer Scholarship |
- Undergraduate transfer students. |
Up to $2,000 (one-time award) |
Must be a Phi Theta Kappa member. |
|
Alumni Association Legacy Scholarship |
- Children of Buffalo State alumni. |
N/A |
Based on academic and financial need. |
|
Foundation Scholarships |
- Undergraduate and graduate students. |
N/A |
Department-specific scholarships available. |
|
Creative Studies Graduate Scholarship |
- Graduate students in Creative Studies. |
N/A |
For students in the M.S. Creative Studies program. |
|
Fulbright Scholarships |
- Graduate international students. |
N/A |
Must apply through Fulbright Commission. |
|
Athletic Scholarships |
- Student-athletes (NCAA Division III compliant). |
N/A |
Based on athletic and academic performance. |
|
Say Yes to Education Scholarship |
- First-year undergraduate students from "Say Yes" districts. |
Tuition coverage after aid |
For eligible students meeting criteria. |
Facility |
Details |
Cost (USD) (Per Year) |
|---|---|---|
|
On-Campus Housing |
SUNY Buffalo State offers several residence halls and apartments with options for single, double, and suite-style rooms. |
$8,100–$9,200 |
|
North Wing Residence Hall |
Traditional-style dormitory with shared bathrooms and lounges. Primarily for first-year students. |
$8,100 |
|
South Wing Residence Hall |
Similar to North Wing, featuring shared facilities and located near dining halls. |
$8,100 |
|
Cassety Hall |
Suite-style rooms with semi-private bathrooms. |
$8,800 |
|
Moore Complex |
Apartment-style housing for upperclassmen with kitchens and living areas. |
$9,200 |
|
STAC (Student Apartment Complex) |
Apartment-style units designed for independent living. Includes full kitchens and private bedrooms. |
$9,200 |
|
Off-Campus Housing |
Students can rent apartments near the campus. Costs vary depending on location and amenities. |
$6,000–$10,000 (estimated) |
|
Meal Plans |
Multiple meal plan options are available, including unlimited dining or block meal plans. |
$4,600–$5,200 |
|
Laundry Facilities |
Available in all residence halls with a pay-per-use system or included in housing fees. |
Included in housing fees |
|
Utilities |
Heating, electricity, water, and Wi-Fi are included in on-campus housing costs. |
Included in housing fees |
|
Recreation Areas |
Residence halls feature common areas with lounges, study rooms, and recreational facilities. |
Free access for residents |
|
Safety & Security |
24/7 campus security, keycard access to buildings, and on-site resident advisors (RAs). |
Included in housing fees |
Category |
Details |
|---|---|
|
Clubs and Organizations |
- Over 80 student organizations spanning academic, cultural, recreational, and professional interests. |
|
Cultural Diversity |
- Buffalo State celebrates diversity with cultural festivals, events, and clubs. |
|
Athletics and Fitness |
- Home to the Buffalo State Bengals, competing in NCAA Division III sports. |
|
Campus Events |
- Regularly hosts concerts, guest lectures, theater productions, and art exhibitions. |
|
Burchfield Penney Art Center |
- Located on campus, showcasing American art and providing opportunities for students to engage with the arts community. |
|
Student Government |
- The United Students Government (USG) advocates for student interests and organizes activities. |
|
Community Engagement |
- Opportunities to participate in service projects through the Volunteer and Service-Learning Center (VSLC). |
|
Residential Life |
- On-campus housing offers a strong sense of community and access to activities organized by Resident Assistants (RAs). |
|
Dining Options |
- Multiple dining locations on campus, including cafeterias, grab-and-go options, and coffee shops. |
|
Campus Safety |
- University Police ensure 24/7 campus safety. |
|
Career Development |
- The Career Development Center helps students with internships, job placements, and skill-building workshops. |
|
Study Spaces |
- The E. H. Butler Library and dedicated study lounges provide quiet environments for academic success. |
|
Proximity to Buffalo Attractions |
- The campus is close to Delaware Park, museums, theaters, restaurants, and Niagara Falls, giving students access to a wide array of cultural and recreational activities. |
International Student Services:
Dedicated office to assist international students with visas, cultural adjustment, and academic support.
Cultural Integration Programs:
Programs like the Global Ambassadors Program pair international students with local students to help them adapt.
Students can work part-time on campus for up to 20 hours per week during the academic term.
Jobs include positions in the library, dining services, and administrative offices.
Homecoming Week: A celebration with parades, sports events, and alumni gatherings.
International Education Week: Celebrates global cultures with food, music, and performances.
Spring Fest: End-of-semester festival featuring music, games, and social activities.
Feature |
Details |
|---|---|
|
Career Development Center |
- The Career Development Center (CDC) assists students with career planning, resume building, interview preparation, and job searches. |
|
Internship Opportunities |
- Students can participate in internships through partnerships with local businesses, government agencies, and nonprofits. |
|
Job Fairs and Networking Events |
- Regular job and internship fairs connect students with potential employers. |
|
Alumni Network |
- Buffalo State has a strong network of alumni, especially in fields like education, business, and the arts. |
|
Practical Learning |
- Many programs incorporate hands-on learning, including co-ops, field placements, and capstone projects. |
|
Graduate Assistantships |
- Graduate students have access to assistantships, providing both professional experience and financial aid. |
|
Community Engagement |
- Opportunities for community-based projects and service learning help students build skills while contributing to the community. |
Field/Program |
Placement Highlights |
|---|---|
|
Education |
- Strong partnerships with schools in Buffalo and surrounding areas. |
|
Business Administration |
- Internships and co-op programs with local businesses like M&T Bank, Rich Products, and local startups. |
|
Art and Design |
- Students often find roles in galleries, museums, and creative agencies. |
|
Social Work |
- Graduates placed in social services, government agencies, and nonprofits. |
|
Criminal Justice |
- High placement rates in law enforcement, corrections, and public administration roles. |
|
Computer Information Systems |
- Graduates secure IT and tech-related roles in companies across New York State. |
Metric |
Details |
|---|---|
|
Average Employment Rate |
~85% of graduates employed or pursuing further education within 6 months of graduation. |
|
Internship Participation |
Over 60% of students complete at least one internship before graduation. |
|
Average Starting Salary |
$45,000–$55,000 per year, depending on the field of study. |
|
Top Employers |
- M&T Bank, Kaleida Health, Rich Products, BlueCross BlueShield, Buffalo Public Schools. |
Career Workshops:
Topics include resume writing, interview skills, and career exploration.
On-Campus Recruiting:
Employers visit campus to recruit students directly for internships and jobs.
LinkedIn Learning:
Access to online courses to improve professional skills and technical expertise.
Handshake Platform:
Students can connect with employers, search job postings, and apply for opportunities through Buffalo State's partnership with Handshake.
The acceptance rate of SUNY Buffalo State University is approximately 80%, making it a moderately selective institution. This means that the majority of applicants who meet the admission requirements are likely to be admitted.
Holistic Admissions:
Buffalo State considers not only academic performance (GPA and test scores) but also extracurricular activities, leadership experiences, and personal essays.
Diverse Student Body:
The university emphasizes inclusivity and often accepts students from a variety of academic and cultural backgrounds.
Standardized Test Scores:
While not always mandatory for all programs, strong SAT or ACT scores can boost chances for competitive applicants.
International Students:
For international applicants, proficiency in English (TOEFL, IELTS, or Duolingo scores) and academic performance are key factors.
1300 Elmwood Avenue, Buffalo, NY 14222, USA