University at Buffalo
Buffalo, NY
Quick Facts
“Mens sana in corpore sano”("Sound Mind in a Sound Body")
Data from Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0) & U.S. Dept. of Education
About University at Buffalo
A top-tier public research powerhouse, UB offers unparalleled opportunities as New York's largest university.
The University at Buffalo, often known as UB or SUNY Buffalo, stands as a distinguished flagship institution within the State University of New York system. As the largest public university in New York, UB currently serves nearly 32,000 students across 13 diverse schools and colleges. Renowned for its commitment to groundbreaking discovery, UB is classified among "R1: Doctoral Universities – Very high research activity," reflecting its extensive contributions to research and innovation. Embracing its motto, "Mens sana in corpore sano" (Sound Mind in a Sound Body), UB fosters a holistic environment for intellectual and personal growth.
UB's rich history began on May 11, 1846, as a private medical college dedicated to training doctors for the growing communities of Buffalo and Niagara Falls. Notably, one of its principal founders and first chancellor was future U.S. President Millard Fillmore, making it one of only two universities founded by a U.S. President. Over decades, the institution evolved significantly, expanding its offerings beyond medicine to include law, pharmacy, and a comprehensive College of Arts and Sciences. In 1962, the University of Buffalo merged with the State University of New York system, cementing its role as a leading public research institution.
Academically, UB is a powerhouse, boasting the largest state-operated medical, dental, education, business, engineering, and pharmacy schools, alongside SUNY's only law school. This breadth of programs includes over 140 bachelor's, 220 master's, 95 doctoral, and 55 combined degree programs, providing vast opportunities for specialized study and interdisciplinary collaboration. The university's dedication to research is further highlighted by its largest endowment and most research funding among all SUNY institutions, alongside its esteemed membership in the Association of American Universities since 1989.
Beyond academics, UB offers a vibrant student experience on its large, suburban campus spanning 1,346 acres in Buffalo and Amherst. Students can cheer on the Bulls, UB's intercollegiate athletic teams, which compete in NCAA Division I as members of the Mid-American Conference. With its historical roots, comprehensive academic offerings, and a dynamic research environment, the University at Buffalo provides an exceptional and engaging setting for prospective students and their families.
Key Highlights
- ✦Largest public university in New York State with nearly 32,000 students across 13 schools and colleges.
- ✦Classified as "R1: Doctoral Universities – Very high research activity," a hallmark of top-tier research institutions.
- ✦A flagship institution of the State University of New York (SUNY) system, renowned for its academic excellence.
- ✦Founded in 1846 by a distinguished group, including future U.S. President Millard Fillmore.
- ✦Offers a vast array of programs: over 140 bachelor's, 220 master's, and 95 doctoral degrees.
- ✦Home to SUNY's only law school and the largest state-operated medical, dental, business, engineering, education, and pharmacy schools.
- ✦Boasts the largest endowment ($1.17 billion in 2025) and most research funding within the entire SUNY system.
Timeline
Schools & Colleges
8 notable schools within University at Buffalo
School of Medicine
The largest state-operated medical school, it was the university's founding division in 1846.
School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences
Established as a separate pharmacy division, it has been continually expanded.
University of Buffalo Law School
Acquired in 1891, it is notably SUNY's only law school.
School of Dental Medicine
The largest state-operated dental school within the SUNY system.
Graduate School of Education
Recognized as the largest state-operated education school.
School of Management
Houses the largest state-operated business school.
School of Engineering and Applied Sciences
The largest state-operated engineering school, known for its research and academic programs.
College of Arts and Sciences
Formed in 1915, it established the university's comprehensive undergraduate division.
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