Founded in 1846 as a private medical college in downtown Buffalo, the University at Buffalo (UB) joined the State University of New York system in 1962 and has grown to become the largest and most comprehensive university in the 64-campus SUNY network. As one of two SUNY flagship institutions alongside Stony Brook University, UB is a member of the prestigious Association of American Universities (AAU), placing it among the top 65 research universities in North America.

UB students live and learn across three distinct campuses: the North Campus in suburban Amherst, which houses most core academic programs and residence halls; the historic South Campus in North Buffalo dating back to the 1920s; and the growing Downtown Campus centered around the Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences in Buffalo's medical corridor. The university offers more than 400 degree programs across 13 schools and colleges at the bachelor's, master's, professional, and doctoral levels.

UB is recognized for its strong international community, ranking among the top U.S. public research universities for percentage of international enrollment. With exchange programs at more than 75 universities worldwide and a study abroad participation rate five times the national average, UB prepares graduates for success in a globally connected world.

The University at Buffalo is organized into 13 schools and colleges offering over 140 undergraduate programs, 220 master's programs, 95 doctoral programs, and 55 combined degree programs. UB's academic structure spans the arts, sciences, professions, and health sciences, providing students with extensive options to pursue their academic and career goals.

As a public SUNY institution, UB offers tuition rates that are significantly lower than many comparable research universities. The university provides millions of dollars in scholarships and financial aid each year, with 61% of enrolled undergraduates receiving grants or scholarships.

The University at Buffalo operates across three complementary campuses totaling over 1,350 acres. Each campus offers a distinct environment, from the modern North Campus in suburban Amherst to the historic South Campus in North Buffalo and the dynamic Downtown Campus in Buffalo's medical corridor.

North Campus

The largest of UB's three campuses, featuring cutting-edge academic spaces, residence halls, dining facilities, the Student Union, and athletic venues surrounded by green spaces and a recreational lake.

South Campus

A Western New York landmark dating back to the 1920s, featuring classic ivy-covered buildings, grassy quads, and a leafy residential neighborhood setting.

Downtown Campus

Anchored by the state-of-the-art Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, located in Buffalo's rapidly growing medical corridor for clinical care and research.

UB offers a vibrant campus experience with hundreds of student organizations, Greek life, club and intramural sports, and a rich calendar of cultural events. The diverse student body, representing over 110 countries, creates a welcoming and globally connected community.

The University at Buffalo is consistently ranked among the top public universities in the United States and is recognized globally for its research output and academic programs. UB is the top-ranked public university in New York State in the QS World University Rankings 2026.