BA

Urban and Public Policy Studies

Learn more about studying Urban and Public Policy Studies as an international student.

Add application

Add an application for this program to manage progress and next steps.

Add this program to your longlist or shortlist to track your options.

Image reflecting the subject area of Architecture, Construction and Planning, relating to the program.
University at Buffalo SUNY university logo

Key facts

  • Degree type
    Bachelor's
  • Duration
    4 years
  • Delivery method
    On campus
  • Pace
    Full-time
  • Annual tuition fee
    29,070USD
  • Start date
    Jul
  • QS Ranking
    #410

Program overview

What the University at Buffalo SUNY says about their program:

The Urban and Public Policy Studies major at the University at Buffalo SUNY is designed for students interested in social issues, urban communities, and public policy. This program allows students to explore various topics such as planning, transportation, housing, and urban inequality from multiple disciplinary perspectives.

The curriculum focuses on understanding how cities function, covering areas like environmental design, geography, sociology, and political science. Students can choose to study policies related to race, housing, and health, while also developing practical skills applicable across disciplines, such as grant writing and program evaluation.

This program is ideal for those looking to pursue careers in government agencies, urban planning, nonprofit organizations, and real estate development. Graduates have opportunities to work with various leading organizations, preparing them for impactful roles in their communities.

Illustration featuring a variety of academic and scientific symbols, including a graduation cap on top of a profile of Einstein's head, a book, a ruler, a lightbulb, a microscope, a DNA helix, and molecular structure, against a backdrop of a university building with trees and clouds.

Admission requirements

Undergraduate academic requirements

  • Completion of high school/ secondary education

Postgraduate academic requirements

  • A bachelor's degree, or the equivalent, from an accredited/government recognized college or university.
  • A B-grade (GPA of 3.0) or higher from your bachelor's degree (or equivalent) courses.
  • Appropriate standardized test scores (GRE, GMAT, LSAT, etc.) may be required depending on the program.

English proficiency

English proficiency is required; accepted tests include IELTS, TOEFL, or equivalent.

English proficiency waivers

Documents required

  • Bachelor's degree or equivalent from an accredited institution
  • English Language Proficiency test score
  • Letters of recommendation
  • Any document not written in English must be accompanied by an English translation
Illustration of academic elements  representing admission requirements, including a graduation cap, clock, documents, resumes, ID card, a calendar, and a clipboard.

Required grades

  • GPA

    2 out of 4.0

All grade information on Studee is provided for guidance only. Always check the university's official program page for the latest information on required grades.

How to apply

3 routes available:

  • Common App

    Mixed deadline
    Application fee100.00 USD
    Fee waiver

    U.S. citizens or current permanent residents may request an application fee waiver based on financial hardship or other qualifying criteria; submit a fee waiver request form.

    Read the fee waiver policy
  • Coalition Application (Scoir)

    Mixed deadline
    Application feeFee not confirmed
    Fee waiver

    U.S. citizens or permanent residents may request a fee waiver for financial need or program participation; submit the waiver request to the appropriate admissions office.

    Read the fee waiver policy
  • Direct

    Mixed deadline
    Application feeFee not confirmed
    Fee waiver

    U.S. citizens or permanent residents (including active military, veterans, and their spouses) may request application fee waivers; submit a fee waiver request as instructed by admissions.

    Read the fee waiver policy

Scholarships at University at Buffalo SUNY

  • International scholarships and funding opportunities

    Official page

    The University at Buffalo scholarship and funding page includes merit, athletic and international awards among its scholarship opportunities. International applicants should review the official UB scholarship page for the current award list and eligibility rules.

All scholarship information on Studee is provided for guidance only. Always check the university's official scholarship page for the latest information on eligibility, award amounts, deadlines, and application requirements.

Fees

University at Buffalo SUNY students participating in an Other SUNY program will be billed for various fees including tuition and comprehensive fees. For detailed information on funding and financial support options, students should refer to the university's resources.

Illustration of education and financial elements including a graduation cap, trophy, diploma, books, a piggy bank, stacks of cash notes, and coins, representing fees and funding.

What is the cost of living near University at Buffalo SUNY?

Category Cost  (in United States Dollar)
Rent, 1-bed apartment in city centre$1,531
Rent, 1-bed apartment outside centre$995
Utilities (electricity, heating, water, refuse)$176
Internet (60 Mbps unlimited)$67
Mobile phone plan (data + calls)$61Range: $30 to $110· USA average
Monthly public transport pass$87
Monthly grocery basket$232
Books and study supplies (monthly)$125
Coffee shop drink$6
Cinema or cultural event ticket$13
Gym membership$38

Indicative monthly costs per person.

Data sourced from livingcost.org (Crowdsourced), numbeo.com (Crowdsourced) and buffalo.edu (University published).

Visa requirements for the University at Buffalo SUNY

Navigating the visa process is a crucial step in your study abroad journey. Make sure to seek guidance and support to ensure you meet all necessary requirements for your time at University at Buffalo SUNY.