Best
Colleges in Buffalo in 2027

Business Administration

Studying business administration in Buffalo, NY, builds skills in management, accounting, marketing, economics, finance, and business analytics. Programs commonly combine classroom learning with projects, internships, and teamwork. Graduates may pursue roles such as business analyst, marketing coordinator, human resources specialist, sales representative, operations supervisor, or entrepreneur. Popular local options include Canisius University, Buffalo State University, and D'Youville University; nearby, the University at Buffalo also offers business programs and connections with employers through meaningful internships locally.

Psychology

Studying psychology in Buffalo, NY, explores human behavior through courses such as introductory, developmental, abnormal, and cognitive psychology, statistics, and research methods. Students examine mental health, relationships, and neuroscience while developing research and communication skills. Popular colleges include the University at Buffalo, Buffalo State University, Canisius University, and D'Youville University. Graduates pursue work as research assistants, behavioral health technicians, case managers, or human resources specialists; clinical counseling typically requires graduate education and licensure for practice.

Computer Science

Studying computer science in Buffalo, NY, combines programming, mathematics, systems, and problem-solving. Typical courses include algorithms, data structures, software engineering, databases, operating systems, cybersecurity, and artificial intelligence. Students often complete projects or internships that build practical experience. Buffalo State University and Canisius University offer computer science study in the city; the University at Buffalo is a major nearby option. Graduates commonly pursue software developer, data analyst, systems administrator, cybersecurity analyst, or IT support specialist roles.

Counseling

Studying counseling in Buffalo, NY offers preparation for helping individuals, families, and communities. Typical coursework includes counseling theories, human development, ethics, assessment, group counseling, multicultural practice, and supervised clinical work. The University at Buffalo and Buffalo State University are popular options, with programs in areas such as mental health and school counseling. Graduates may pursue roles as mental health counselors, school counselors, rehabilitation counselors, or health specialists.

Nursing

Studying nursing in Buffalo, NY can lead to associate, bachelor's, or advanced degrees at schools such as the University at Buffalo, D'Youville University, and Trocaire College. Courses typically cover anatomy and physiology, microbiology, pharmacology, health assessment, nursing fundamentals, and supervised clinical practice. Graduates often become registered nurses in hospitals, clinics, long-term care facilities, or community health settings. With additional education and licensure, many rewarding career options can include nurse practitioner, nurse educator, or nurse manager.

Best Colleges in Buffalo, NY Ranking Summary & Conclusions

• The median total cost of studying is $27,530, compared with $32,760 at schools in the top 10% - a difference of $5,230.
• An average of 100% of students receive financial aid across the schools, compared with 80.67% at schools in the top 10%.
• The average acceptance rate is 80.67%. Schools receive an average of 11,205.67 applicants, while those in the top 10% average 29,537.5 applicants. The median number of applicants is 1,388 men and 2,085.5 women.
• The average SAT score is 1,109.6, and the average ACT score is 26.67.
• Schools average 6,411.29 enrolled students, including an average of 542.5 men and 528.5 women.
• The average graduation rate is 46.29%, compared with 70.2% at schools in the top 10%. The median graduation rate is 29% for men and 37% for women.
• Five institutions offer associate's degrees, seven offer bachelor's degrees, four offer master's degrees, and two offer doctor's degrees. Six schools are coeducational; there are zero schools for men and zero for women.
• When choosing a college, compare total cost and financial aid alongside admissions selectivity, test-score averages, enrollment, graduation outcomes, and available degree levels. Pay particular attention to how each school's figures compare with the top 10% if graduation rates or applicant volume are priorities.

How much does studying at a college in Buffalo, NY cost?

The average total cost of studying for a degree in Buffalo, NY, is about $25,359 overall, based on the available figures. Treat this as a useful planning benchmark, not a guaranteed bill: your actual cost depends on your college, program, housing, and financial aid. At the University at Buffalo, Buffalo State University, Canisius University, and other local schools, compare each college's published cost of attendance and ask about grants, scholarships, and resident tuition options.

• Average tuition and fees: $23,159.86.
• Average books and supplies: $1,510.40.
• Average room and board: $13,535.

The listed category averages do not add up to the stated total, so verify which expenses are included before building your budget. Buffalo's housing and transportation choices affect costs. If you commute or live at home, your budget may differ from a residential student's. Contact campus financial aid offices to explore grants and scholarships; a personalized estimate can help you choose confidently.

How long does it take to finish college in Buffalo, NY?

In Buffalo, NY, a bachelor's degree typically takes four years of full-time study, while an associate degree usually takes two. At the University at Buffalo, Buffalo State University, or Canisius University, your timeline depends on your program, course availability, and how many credits you bring in. Part-time study can extend the schedule, but it may make balancing work and family easier for most students.

Graduation figures show that finishing is not automatic: the average graduation rate is 46.29%, compared with 70.2% for the top 10% of schools. The average is 42.0% for men and 49.0% for women. These rates are a reminder to check support services and course planning when choosing a campus. Ask advisers about requirements, summer offerings, and transfer policies; SUNY Erie pathways may help you start and transfer credits.

Faster routes include:

• Transfer eligible credits, including AP/IB or dual-enrollment.
• Take summer classes or accelerated courses when offered.

Salary

Graduates can use about $43,476 in median alumni salary as a useful earnings benchmark when weighing college options in Buffalo, NY. For graduates of schools in the top 10% by this measure, the median is about $73,548. These figures are benchmarks, not guaranteed starting salaries; your field, experience, and chosen career can make a big difference.

If you're considering the University at Buffalo, Buffalo State University, Canisius University, or D'Youville University, compare programs as well as salary figures. A degree that fits your strengths and career goals can help you build toward higher earnings - and it's exciting to imagine the opportunities a Buffalo education could open up.

• Median alumni salary: about $43,476.
• Median alumni salary at top 10% schools: about $73,548.

People also ask

How many colleges are in Buffalo?

There isn't one definitive count because it depends on whether you include community colleges, specialized schools, and campuses of institutions based elsewhere. Buffalo has several colleges and universities, including the University at Buffalo's South Campus, Buffalo State University, Canisius University, D'Youville University, and Trocaire College. Checking current campus locations is helpful when comparing options.

What is the main college in Buffalo?

The University at Buffalo (UB), part of the State University of New York system, is often considered Buffalo's flagship university. Its South Campus is in Buffalo, while its larger North Campus is in nearby Amherst. UB offers a broad range of programs and a large student community, so it can be a lively place to study.

Where do college students go in Buffalo?

Students often spend time in neighborhoods such as Elmwood Village, Allentown, and Hertel Avenue for cafés, restaurants, and shops. Canalside and Delaware Park offer outdoor ways to unwind, while campus libraries and student centers are popular for studying and meeting friends. The best spots depend on your campus, interests, and how you like to spend your free time.

Top 5 Colleges in the Best Colleges Ranking in Buffalo, NY Ranking in 2026-2027

University at Buffalo is the largest option in this group, with 31,658 enrolled students and a 75% graduation rate. Its 74% acceptance rate may appeal to students seeking a broad-access university in the Buffalo area. The listed total study cost is $27,670, while median alumni salary is $49,466. For a prospective student based in Buffalo, UB offers a sizable university community and a regional choice for earning a degree, with cost, completion, and alumni earnings worth comparing against individual goals.

SUNY Buffalo State University enrolls 6,095 students, giving it a smaller community than the University at Buffalo while remaining a substantial public-university option for Buffalo-area students. Its 33% graduation rate is the lowest among these five schools, and acceptance is 73%. The total study cost listed is $18,190, the lowest in this group; median alumni salary is $40,474. Students weighing affordability and degree completion can compare these figures while considering the advantages of studying close to home in Buffalo, NY, locally.

Canisius University has 2,416 enrolled students, a 66% graduation rate, and a 72% acceptance rate, presenting a smaller university setting for students in Buffalo, NY. Its listed total cost of studying is $32,200, and median alumni salary is $43,476. Compared with the other local choices, these figures offer useful points for evaluating cost and outcomes. Prospective students can consider Canisius as a close-to-home degree option and weigh its community size, admissions rate, completion rate, and alumni earnings against their plans.

Villa Maria College is the smallest school listed, with 611 enrolled students, making it a compact college choice for someone studying in Buffalo, NY. Its acceptance rate is 87%, the highest in this group, while its graduation rate is 31%. The total study cost is $27,530, and median alumni salary is $31,162. Students considering a close-to-home college can compare these figures with their budget and academic priorities, especially the balance between a smaller enrollment, access, completion, and alumni earnings.

D'Youville University enrolls 2,556 students and reports a 67% graduation rate and an 81% acceptance rate, offering Buffalo, NY students another relatively small university setting. Its listed total study cost is $33,600, the highest among these five schools, while median alumni salary is $78,223, also the highest in this comparison. Students considering D'Youville can weigh the greater listed cost against the reported alumni salary, along with enrollment and graduation figures, when choosing a degree close to home and personal priorities.