The School of Natural and Social Sciences houses three research centers and 13 academic departments offering more than 30 major programs, over 20 minor programs, five undergraduate certificates, numerous graduate programs, and four postbaccalaureate teacher certification programs.
To support students' goals and to meet the changing needs of industry, not-for-profits, and government, the School of Natural and Social Sciences is continuously developing new academic programs and services. Recently introduced programs include the master of science in Data Science and Analytics, the MPA program in Public and Nonprofit Management, and the bachelor of arts in Africana Studies.
Research is a cornerstone of academic life at Buffalo State and the School of Natural and Social Sciences has an important role to play. The two largest externally-funded research centers are housed in the School of Natural and Social Sciences. The Great Lakes Center is an institute of researchers and educators at SUNY Buffalo State dedicated to investigating the ecology of the Great Lakes and their tributaries. The Institute for Community Health Promotion focuses on the health and well-being of individuals—as well as larger communities—through the development and implementation of research and programming. Graduate student researchers also have opportunities to work with faculty on research theses and projects through one of our graduate programs.
As an institution, Buffalo State values undergraduate research. The university backs its commitment by putting substantial financial resources behind faculty-mentored undergraduate research. The Undergraduate Research Office promotes, supports, and funds undergraduate research in all academic areas—from the sciences to the arts—and for all committed students. Between 300 and 400 students present their research through posters, oral presentations, and performances each year at the Student Research and Creativity Conference. They also compete for Undergraduate Summer Research Fellowships, which support eight weeks of paid research activity.
