SUNY Buffalo State
Acceptance rate
72.9%
2025
Peer median 85.8%
Out-of-state tuition
$19,653
In-state $8,533
Peer median $18,658
Undergraduates
5,255
Student-faculty ratio 14:1
Peer median 16 : 1
Graduation rate
23.8%
4-year; 6-year rate 36.4%
Peer median 29.5%
“Peers” are all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).
About
SUNY Buffalo State University, located in Buffalo, New York, is a distinguished institution known for its commitment to academic excellence and community engagement. Established in 1871, the university offers a diverse range of undergraduate and graduate programs, with particular strengths in art, education, and the sciences. The campus is characterized by its vibrant cultural environment, which fosters creativity and innovation among students. The university's motto, "We are Buffalo State," reflects its deep connection to the local community and its mission to prepare students for meaningful careers and contributions to society.
The campus boasts state-of-the-art facilities, including modern classrooms, laboratories, and a comprehensive library, all designed to enhance the learning experience. SUNY Buffalo State also places a strong emphasis on student life, offering a plethora of extracurricular activities, clubs, and athletic programs that promote personal growth and community involvement. With a dedicated faculty who are experts in their fields, students receive personalized attention and support to help them achieve their academic and career aspirations. Graduates from SUNY Buffalo State are well-prepared for the workforce, with many finding successful careers in education, healthcare, and various industries, underscoring the university's role in shaping the future leaders of tomorrow.
Analysis of Key Metrics at SUNY Buffalo State University
The data from SUNY Buffalo State University reveals significant trends regarding tuition, student enrollment, and graduation rates over the years. One of the most striking observations is the consistent increase in tuition fees, notably for out-of-state undergraduate students, which rose from approximately $16,382 in 2014 to $18,906 in 2024. This 15% increase in just a decade places a heavier financial burden on non-resident students, potentially making the university less attractive to out-of-state applicants amid rising national concerns about student debt.
In parallel, the number of undergraduate students has seen a notable decline, reducing from 9,747 in 2013 to just 5,464 in 2023. This drop of nearly 44% could be attributed to various factors, including rising tuition costs and possibly changing demographics or preferences among prospective students. Such a trend raises questions about the university's long-term sustainability and its ability to attract new talent, which is critical for maintaining a vibrant academic community.
Additionally, the graduation rates have shown fluctuations, with the on-time graduation rate hovering around 26% in 2023. While this figure has seen some improvements from prior years, it still reflects challenges in student retention and completion, which are often linked to both academic support services and financial pressures faced by students. The retention rate has also dipped to around 49% in 2023, a significant decrease from 75% in 2014, indicating possible difficulties in keeping students engaged and enrolled.
Together, these metrics paint a concerning picture of SUNY Buffalo State University, highlighting the need for strategic adjustments to tuition pricing, student support services, and enrollment strategies to foster a more inclusive educational environment and improve outcomes for current and prospective students.
This collegeRanked colleges nearby
- Setting
- Large city
- Nearest major city
- In Buffalo
- Nearest international airport
- Buffalo Niagara International Airport (BUF), about 8 mi
- Also known as
- Buffalo State University
- Academic calendar
- Semester
- Religious affiliation
- Not applicable
- President
- Bonita R Durand, PhD (Interim President)
- Phone
- 7168784000
- Address
- 1300 Elmwood Ave, Buffalo, NY 14222
Rankings & Admission
Peer median 85.8% · all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Acceptance rate by gender, 2025
In 2020: men 62.9%, women 70.0%.
Data insights
Analysis of Admission Trends at SUNY Buffalo State University
The admission statistics for SUNY Buffalo State University from 2009 to 2023 reveal significant trends regarding acceptance rates and enrollment figures. Over the years, the university has demonstrated a fluctuating yet generally declining acceptance rate for both male and female applicants. In 2009, the acceptance rate for males was approximately 62.9%, while females had a rate of around 31.5%. By 2023, these figures had shifted dramatically to about 82.8% for males and 88.4% for females.
This notable increase in acceptance rates indicates a growing willingness to admit students, potentially reflecting a strategy to boost enrollment numbers in recent years. The total number of students enrolled has seen a slight decline, from 1,533 in 2009 to 1,252 in 2023. This could suggest that while more students are being accepted, the overall quality or competitiveness of incoming classes may be shifting.
Additionally, the number of applicants denied admission has consistently increased, peaking at over 7,000 in 2011, which highlights a broader trend of increasing applicant pools, particularly in the early 2010s. The deferment rates also suggest that the university is managing its admission process carefully, with thousands of students having their admissions deferred each year.
Overall, these trends reflect the evolving landscape of higher education, where institutions may adjust their admission strategies in response to market demands, demographic shifts, and the competitive nature of university admissions. This analysis emphasizes the need for prospective students to remain aware of these changing patterns as they navigate their educational paths.
School and Program Rankings
U.S. News school and program rankings · Click a school to see its programs, and a program for its full ranking
Undergraduate Rankings · 2027 edition
Social Sciences and Humanities1 programs—
Ranks in blue are top 10 · ▲▼ change from the previous edition · “—” means no overall ranking for that school · Medical schools are ranked in tiers since the 2025 edition
Test Scores
2025 admitted students, 25th–75th percentile · 9% submitted SAT, 0% submitted ACT · SAT/ACT optional: considered if submitted
Data insights
Trends in Admission Test Scores at SUNY Buffalo State University
The admission data from SUNY Buffalo State University over the years presents an intriguing picture of the changing dynamics in standardized test scores and applicant participation. Notably, the number of students submitting SAT scores has fluctuated, with a peak in 2019 where 99% of admits submitted scores. However, this figure has dropped significantly in the subsequent years, particularly in 2022 and 2023, where only 19% and 14% of admitted students submitted SAT scores, respectively. This decline suggests a broader trend in higher education wherein many institutions are moving towards test-optional policies, reflecting a shift in admissions strategies.
Examining the score ranges, it is evident that while the lower ends of the score brackets have seen some decline, the upper ends have generally remained stable or improved slightly over the years. For instance, in 2023, the 75th percentile of SAT reading scores rose to 600, indicating a continued commitment to attracting academically strong candidates, despite fewer students submitting scores.
Moreover, the overall decline in test submissions may also reflect changing preferences among students, who may prioritize different aspects of their applications such as extracurricular activities, personal statements, and letters of recommendation. This aligns with national trends where an increasing number of colleges are re-evaluating the weight placed on standardized test scores in light of equity concerns and the diverse backgrounds of applicants.
In conclusion, SUNY Buffalo State University appears to be navigating a significant shift in its admissions landscape, balancing traditional metrics of academic achievement with evolving practices that cater to a broader and more diverse applicant pool. As test-optional policies gain traction, it will be interesting to observe how these trends continue to evolve in the coming years.
How Hard Is It to Get In
about 7 in 10
18,219 applicants in 2025, 72.9% admitted
13,290 admitted 4,929 not admitted Yield 9.2%
Degrees & Majors
Graduates in 2025 (first major)
U.S. studentsInternational
Popular graduate programs
- Multi-/Interdisciplinary Studies, Other · Master's125 (0% international)
- Curriculum and Instruction · Master's85 (0% international)
- Reading Teacher Education · Master's29 (0% international)
- Elementary Education and Teaching · Master's25 (0% international)
- Data Analytics, General · Master's23 (35% international)
- Education/Teaching of Individuals in Secondary Special Education Programs · Master's22 (0% international)
Data insights
Analysis of Graduation Data at SUNY Buffalo State University
The graduation data from SUNY Buffalo State University in 2023 presents intriguing insights into the trends and demographics of degree completions. Notably, the General Studies program stands out with a total of 82 bachelor's degree graduates, indicating a strong interest in interdisciplinary education. This aligns with broader educational trends where students seek diverse skill sets to adapt to an evolving job market.
In contrast, several teacher education programs, including Chemistry, Biology, and Computer Teacher Education, reported no graduates at the bachelor's level. This absence raises questions about the appeal of teaching careers in these fields, especially as the nation grapples with teacher shortages. Addressing these gaps could be critical for ensuring a well-rounded educational system and meeting future workforce demands.
Additionally, the data shows a minimal number of international students graduating, particularly at the bachelor and master's levels, with only one international student graduating from Information Science. This low figure could reflect broader immigration and educational policies that may affect international enrollment and retention, a crucial aspect for universities aiming to enhance cultural diversity on campus.
Overall, the graduation statistics from SUNY Buffalo State University reveal key areas of growth, particularly in general studies, while also highlighting challenges in teacher education and international student engagement. These findings underscore the importance of strategic initiatives to attract and support students in high-demand fields, ensuring that the university continues to meet educational and societal needs effectively.
All majors, graduates and earnings IPEDS · College Scorecard
*Depends on whether majors have graduates in 2025 or not, Yes / No
**Move mouse on can check deitaled graudates number, click for major detailed information
***Due to privacy policy, graduate salaries are not shown for some majors that has few gradautes
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Peace Studies and Conflict Resolution. | - | ||
| Geography and Environmental Studies. | - | ||
| Data Analytics, General. | $91,298 | ||
| Multi-/Interdisciplinary Studies, Other. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Business Administration and Management, General. | $44,047-$55,663 | ||
| Non-Profit/Public/Organizational Management. | $44,047-$55,663 | ||
| Hospitality Administration/Management, General. | $41,146 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Criminal Justice/Safety Studies. | $39,743 | ||
| Forensic Science and Technology. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| General Studies. | $33,555 | ||
| Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities, Other. | $33,555 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Health and Wellness, General. | - | ||
| Speech-Language Pathology/Pathologist. | - | ||
| Dietetics/Dietitian. | $55,485 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Psychology, General. | $38,828 | ||
| Applied Psychology. | - | ||
| Applied Behavior Analysis. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Anthropology, General. | - | ||
| Economics, General. | $46,408 | ||
| Applied Economics. | $46,408 | ||
| Geography. | - | ||
| International Relations and Affairs. | - | ||
| Political Science and Government, General. | $40,647 | ||
| Sociology, General. | $41,840 | ||
| Urban Studies/Affairs. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design and Visual Communications, General. | $40,887 | ||
| Interior Design. | $40,887 | ||
| Graphic Design. | $40,887 | ||
| Drama and Dramatics/Theatre Arts, General. | $32,738 | ||
| Art/Art Studies, General. | $30,948 | ||
| Art History, Criticism and Conservation. | $30,948 | ||
| Painting. | $30,948 | ||
| Ceramic Arts and Ceramics. | $30,948 | ||
| Metal Arts. | $30,948 | ||
| Music, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Speech Communication and Rhetoric. | $34,884 | ||
| Journalism. | - | ||
| Radio and Television. | $31,273 | ||
| Public Relations, Advertising, and Applied Communication. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Information Science/Studies. | $47,744 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Biology/Biological Sciences, General. | $41,086 | ||
| Ecology. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Electrical, Electronic, and Communications Engineering Technology/Technician. | $75,789 | ||
| Industrial Technology/Technician. | - | ||
| Mechanical/Mechanical Engineering Technology/Technician. | $59,784 | ||
| Energy Systems Technology/Technician. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Social Work. | $40,232 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Apparel and Textile Manufacture. | $34,481 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| English Language and Literature, General. | - | ||
| Writing, General. | $30,462 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| History, General. | $33,713 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Radio and Television Broadcasting Technology/Technician. | $32,529 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Science Technologies/Technicians, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chemistry, General. | $49,655 | ||
| Geology/Earth Science, General. | - | ||
| Physics, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mathematics, General. | - | ||
| Applied Mathematics, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Spanish Language and Literature. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Philosophy. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| African-American/Black Studies. | - |
Students
6,188 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 44:56 · Freshman retention 57.7%
- Continuing undergraduates 3,432
- First-year undergraduates 1,214
- Graduate students 933
- Transfers and others 609
Undergraduate race and ethnicity (5,255)
Age distribution
Bachelor's
Graduate students
Data insights
Analysis of Student Demographics at SUNY Buffalo State University in 2023
The student demographic data from SUNY Buffalo State University for 2023 reveals important insights into the composition of its student body. Notably, there are 1,252 new undergraduate students, with a gender distribution showing approximately 46.8% male and 53.2% female. This reflects a broader trend in higher education where female enrollment often surpasses that of males.
Continuing undergraduate students number 3,700, with a slightly lower male representation at 42.6%. The trend persists among transfer students, who account for 418 individuals, exhibiting a gender ratio of 42.3% male and 57.7% female. These figures indicate a consistent pattern of higher female enrollment across undergraduate categories.
Graduate students present a more pronounced gender disparity, with 981 enrolled, where only 26.1% are male and a striking 73.9% are female. This significant female predominance in graduate programs may reflect changing societal norms and increasing female participation in advanced education.
Diving deeper into the demographic breakdown, the available data suggests that the majority of students belong to the white racial group, followed by various other ethnicities. Understanding these demographics is essential as universities aim to foster inclusive environments that represent diverse backgrounds.
Overall, the 2023 data highlights a predominantly female student body across all categories, which may prompt institutions to consider gender-focused support programs and resources to enhance the educational experience for all students. Additionally, as institutions strive for diversity, ongoing efforts in outreach and recruitment are essential to ensure representation from various racial and ethnic groups.
Demographic Insights of SUNY Buffalo State University Students
The age composition of students at SUNY Buffalo State University in 2023 reveals several intriguing trends. The largest group of students is within the 18-19 age range, comprising 42.7% of the total male population and 56.8% of the female population. This indicates a significant influx of fresh high school graduates entering the university, aligning with broader trends in higher education where younger demographics dominate enrollment.
As we move into the 20-21 age bracket, the numbers slightly decrease, with 38.3% of males and 29.9% of females. This may suggest that while many students transition smoothly from high school to college, some may face challenges that delay their progress or lead them to take breaks from their studies.
Interestingly, the 22-24 age group shows a notable increase in female graduate students, comprising 40.6% of the total female population in this age range. This trend could reflect the increasing number of women pursuing higher education, particularly at the graduate level. Overall, female students outnumber male students in most age categories, indicating a shift towards gender parity in higher education.
The older age groups, particularly those aged 30-34 and 35-39, represent a smaller segment of the student body, suggesting that traditional college-age students continue to dominate enrollment. However, the presence of non-traditional students indicates a growing acceptance of lifelong learning and professional development among older adults.
Overall, the demographics at SUNY Buffalo State University highlight a vibrant and diverse student body, with a steady trend of younger students entering higher education while also embracing the educational pursuits of older populations.
International Students
International share over the last 10 years · gray line: median of all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
49 in 2025 · 1.6% in 2016
13 in 2025 · 5.2% in 2016
Data insights
Analysis of International Student Enrollment at SUNY Buffalo State University
The data from SUNY Buffalo State University reveals significant trends in international student enrollment over the years. From 2004 to 2023, the number of undergraduate international students fluctuated, peaking in 2011 with 127 students, representing 1.28% of the total undergraduate population. However, this figure has seen a noticeable decline in recent years, with only 35 international undergraduates in 2023, accounting for just 0.64% of the undergraduate population.
On the graduate side, there has been a dramatic increase in the number of international students from 2013 to 2015, with the percentage reaching an impressive 30.29% in 2015. The number of graduate international students, however, dwindled in the subsequent years, dropping to 15 by 2023, which constitutes only 1.53% of the graduate student body.
This overall decline in international student enrollment can be attributed to various factors, including global events such as the COVID-19 pandemic, which affected international travel and studies. Additionally, changes in immigration policies and competition from other universities may have contributed to this downward trend.
The data underscores the importance of international students to the diversity and cultural richness of the university community. As institutions adapt to changing global conditions, strategies to attract and retain international students will be crucial for fostering an inclusive educational environment and maintaining the university's global standing.
Cost
2025 cost per year (out-of-state)
$35,639
- Undergrad tuition (out-of-state)
- $19,653
- Undergraduate tuition (in-state)
- $8,533
- Room and board
- $15,986
- Graduate tuition
- $24,688
Peer median tuition + room and board $31,000 · all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Tuition rose 12% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 30%.
Finances · fiscal year 2024
Revenue$229M
Expenses$238M
Average faculty salary · 2025 (9-month equivalent)
Dark gray ticks: median pay for the same rank at all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Campus Life
Athletics and varsity athletes NCAA · Upstate Collegiate Athletic Association · State University of New York Athletic Conference
Upstate Collegiate Athletic Association: football
State University of New York Athletic Conference: basketball, cross country
| NCAA Division III with football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Football | 120 | - |
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 65 | 36 |
| Soccer | 57 | 33 |
| Ice Hockey | 28 | 23 |
| Volleyball | 20 | 17 |
| Basketball | 18 | 12 |
| Lacrosse | - | 26 |
| Gymnastics | - | 23 |
| Softball | - | 21 |
| Wrestling | - | 21 |
| NCAA Division III with football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Football | 119 | - |
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 58 | 31 |
| Soccer | 59 | 28 |
| Ice Hockey | 26 | 25 |
| Basketball | 19 | 13 |
| Volleyball | 16 | 16 |
| Lacrosse | - | 23 |
| Gymnastics | - | 20 |
| Softball | - | 19 |
| NCAA Division III with football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Football | 102 | - |
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 64 | 21 |
| Soccer | 45 | 28 |
| Ice Hockey | 29 | 23 |
| Basketball | 16 | 14 |
| Lacrosse | - | 21 |
| Swimming | 7 | 14 |
| Softball | - | 19 |
| Volleyball | - | 17 |
Nearby & Safety
Ranked colleges nearby
-
D'Youville UniversityBuffalo · 2.2 mi
U.S. News #250
-
University at BuffaloBuffalo · 6.6 mi
U.S. News #85
-
Rochester Institute of TechnologyRochester · 61.9 mi
U.S. News #95
-
University of RochesterRochester · 64.6 mi
U.S. News #49
-
Gannon UniversityErie · 82.8 mi
U.S. News #219
-
Hobart and William Smith CollegesGeneva · 96.1 mi
Liberal Arts #60
-
Allegheny CollegeMeadville · 109.8 mi
Liberal Arts #85
-
Cornell UniversityIthaca · 126.4 mi
U.S. News #14
-
Syracuse UniversitySyracuse · 139.1 mi
U.S. News #72
Data insights
Here are some notable schools surrounding SUNY Buffalo State University:
-
University at Buffalo - Ranked 76th in the 2024 US News rankings, the University at Buffalo is a comprehensive university offering a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs.
-
Rochester Institute of Technology - With a rank of 98, this comprehensive university is renowned for its focus on career-oriented education and strong cooperative education programs.
-
University of Rochester - Ranked 47th, the University of Rochester is a prestigious research university known for its strong programs in the arts, sciences, and engineering.
-
Cornell University - As one of the Ivy League schools, Cornell University is highly regarded, holding the 12th position in the rankings. It offers an extensive array of programs and is known for its research initiatives.
-
Syracuse University - Ranked 67th, Syracuse University is a comprehensive institution that provides a vibrant campus life and a strong emphasis on research and public service.
-
Binghamton University - This university is ranked 73rd and is known for its rigorous academic programs and beautiful campus.
-
Case Western Reserve University - With a rank of 53, Case Western Reserve is a private research university, recognized for its innovative research and strong programs in health sciences.
These institutions represent a variety of academic offerings and opportunities for higher education in the region.
Peer median 4.7 · all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Incidents, 2023–2025
From the Clery Act campus safety reports schools file, covering on-campus, non-campus and public property.
Data insights
Analysis of Crime Rates at SUNY Buffalo State University
The crime data from SUNY Buffalo State University reveals a significant decline in the crime rate over the years, particularly from 2021 to 2023. The average number of crimes per 1,000 students has decreased dramatically from 8.56 in 2021 to 5.63 in 2022, before slightly rising to 11.05 in 2023. This downward trend is indicative of the university's successful implementation of safety measures and community awareness programs aimed at reducing campus crime.
In terms of specific offenses, gun-related arrests, drug arrests, and alcohol-related arrests are critical areas of concern. Despite the fluctuations in the overall crime rates, the sharp drop in gun arrests, which were a significant portion of earlier years, suggests an effective response to campus safety issues. However, the presence of domestic violence and stalking incidents indicates ongoing challenges that need to be addressed.
The broader context of campus safety in the United States highlights the importance of continued vigilance and proactive measures. Universities across the nation are grappling with similar issues, with an increasing emphasis on mental health support and community engagement to mitigate crime. As societal attitudes towards issues such as domestic violence evolve, universities must adapt their policies and support systems accordingly.
Overall, while the data shows a positive trend in reducing crime rates at SUNY Buffalo State University, it is essential for the institution to remain committed to fostering a safe and supportive environment for all students. Continuous evaluation of safety strategies and community involvement will be vital in sustaining this progress. For more information on calculating crime rates, you can refer to this link: https://www.forwardpathway.com/33447.
Notable Alumni
All 24Notable alumni of SUNY Buffalo State include Cindy Sherman (Artist known for photographic self-portraits), Ani DiFranco (Singer-songwriter) and Randy Smith (NBA player who set consecutive games played record).
-
Cindy Sherman 1954–
Artist known for photographic self-portraits
-
Ani DiFranco 1970–
Singer-songwriter
-
Randy Smith 1948–2009
NBA player who set consecutive games played record
-
Robert Longo 1953–
Artist known for the Men in the Cities series
-
Brian Higgins 1959–
Former US Representative from New York
-
Diane English 1948–
Screenwriter and producer, creator of Murphy Brown
-
Byron Brown 1958–
Former mayor of Buffalo, New York
-
Susan Gibney 1961–
Actress
-
Tom Fontana 1951–
Screenwriter and producer who created HBO's Oz
References and Data Sources
Data from IPEDS (U.S. Department of Education), U.S. News, THE, QS, ARWU and Clery Act campus safety reports. Data insights are written by the Forward Pathway data team from public data.