Buffalo State’s B.A. in International Relations stands out as the only SUNY program of its kind in Western New York, offering personalized mentorship, a diverse student community, and global opportunities. Faculty support students through research and internships, while Buffalo provides access to local experiences.
International Relations examines how countries and other global actors interact, focusing on issues such as conflict, development, trade, and human rights. This growing field builds strong analytical and research skills. The program prepares students for careers in government, nonprofits, and international business through core courses, language training, internships, and study abroad opportunities that enhance real-world experience.
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Degrees Offered
International Relations, B.A.: International relations studies how countries and global organizations interact. It explores major issues such as conflict, sustainable development, terrorism, foreign policy, trade, economic cooperation, and human rights. Buffalo State prepares students for careers in foreign service, nonprofits, international business, and global governance. Students also gain skills in foreign languages, data analysis, and international experience through internships or study-abroad programs.
Political Science, B.A.: Political science is the study of government and politics. The major includes five areas: American government, international politics, comparative politics, political theory, and public law. In the Bachelor of Arts program, students can focus on Public Legal Studies or choose a broader path through the General Political Science concentration.
Political Science/Law 3+3 Combined Pathway, B.A. and J.D.: Highly qualified Buffalo State students can work on a law degree (Juris Doctor or “J.D.”) at the University of Buffalo while completing their Public Legal Studies Political Science degree (B.A.) at Buffalo State. This pathway allows completion of both undergraduate education and law-degree training in six years of full-time study rather than the usual seven-year journey to a law degree.
Who Hires Our Students?
6.5K
Number of job openings (2024)
$139K+
Average annual salary
10-30
Student class size
"Legal Advice" - Pre-Law Advising
The American Bar Association does not recommend any one undergraduate major or group of courses to prepare for a legal education. Pursue an area of study that interests and challenges you, while taking advantage of opportunities to develop your research and writing skills. Taking a broad range of challenging courses taught by demanding instructors is excellent preparation for legal education.
Many of our international relations students have traveled to England, Australia, China, Egypt, Italy, and other destinations worldwide as part of the SUNY study abroad consortium.
Students can also have various engaging international experiences working for peace and international organizations in Buffalo and NYC.
Upon completion of this program, students will be better prepared to enter a professional career or further their education in such fields as:
- foreign service
- global governance in international governmental organizations
- international or domestic non-profit work
- corporate social responsibilities
- social entrepreneurship
- social and economic development work
Careers Include
- Market Research Analyst
- Foreign Affairs Analyst
- Federal Government
- Graduate School
Pi Sigma Alpha: Buffalo State has a longtime chapter of the national political science honor society. Political science majors, eligible by GPA and course hours, are regarded as the most experienced, dedicated, and academically advanced in the department.
Student Political Society: SPS is a Department of Political Science student academic club. SPS hosts visits and discussions with local politicians, post-election analyses, the ins-and-outs of graduate school, and lectures/discussions on topics of current interest to club members.
Buffalo State Mock Trial Team: This team allows students to practice and compete in mock trial tournaments around the nation. Students gain hands-on experience with the legal system and trial procedures, with mentoring from local professional attorneys.
Model United Nations and Model European Union: An educational simulation and academic competition in which students can learn about diplomacy, international relations, and the United Nations/European Union.