Political Science University at Buffalo

Overview

The Political Science programme at the University at Buffalo offers a versatile and engaging curriculum designed to explore the forces shaping global governance. This degree empowers students to analyse complex political systems and public policies while developing the skills necessary to make a meaningful impact in modern society.

Students benefit from a well-rounded education that blends theoretical frameworks with practical applications. The curriculum focuses on critical areas such as American politics, international relations, and public law, ensuring graduates possess a deep understanding of both domestic and global political landscapes.

Why Political Science at the University at Buffalo?

The department provides a flexible curriculum that allows students to tailor their studies through six distinct concentrations. These pathways include specialised tracks in Public Law, International Politics, and American Politics and Public Affairs, catering to specific career ambitions and academic interests.

Beyond the classroom, the institution emphasises experiential learning through high-impact opportunities. Students can engage in faculty-led research projects, pursue independent studies, or gain hands-on professional experience through internships with government agencies, non-profit organisations, and political campaigns.

The university also fosters a global perspective by encouraging participation in study abroad programmes. These international experiences allow students to observe different political systems firsthand, enhancing their cross-cultural competence and understanding of global issues in a real-world context.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

• International fee: USD 14250 per semester
• National fee: USD 14250 per semester
• Local fee: USD 3535 per semester

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

To complete the major, students must undertake a series of foundational and advanced courses. The curriculum requires the completion of 36 credit hours, including specific methods of inquiry and upper-division coursework. Modules may include:

• American Politics
• Enduring Issues in Political Science
• International Politics
• Comparative Politics
• Political Philosophy
• Empirical Political Science
• Game Theory and Politics
• Basic Statistics for Social Science
• Political Science Internship
• Honors Thesis
• Independent Study

Students are also required to select courses from core fields to ensure breadth of knowledge. These fields include:

• American Politics
• Comparative Politics
• International Relations
• Public Law

Careers with Political Science

Graduates are equipped with highly transferable skills in critical thinking, persuasive communication, and research proficiency. These competencies prepare them for diverse professional roles across the public, private, and third sectors, as well as for competitive graduate schemes.

Common career paths for alumni include roles as legislative aides, policy analysts, and public affairs specialists within government bodies. Others find success as campaign strategists, grassroots organisers, or political consultants, driving change through advocacy and strategic communication.

The degree also serves as an excellent foundation for legal careers or further academic study. Many graduates progress to law school or pursue advanced degrees in public administration and international relations, eventually working as diplomatic officers or international policy analysts.