Mission

The Political Science, Public Administration, and Planning Department empowers students to succeed through excellence in teaching, research, and service. As an anchor institution and urban-engaged campus, our vibrant intellectual community connects with the public and nonprofit sectors to enhance governance, service provision, and the overall quality of life in the Buffalo metropolitan area.  We deliver inclusive, socially equitable, and innovative programs that foster creative and critical thinking. We nurture life-long learners who respect the interconnectedness of knowledge and global sustainability. Through experiential learning opportunities, students prepare for the diverse array of 21st-century careers.

Department Goals

  • Maintain a Talented and Diverse Faculty and Student Body.
  • To enhance and expand the curriculum to reflect current trends and developments within Political Science, International Relations, and Public Administration Disciplines.
  • To provide the skills that students will need to compete on the job market and/or to gain admission into other graduate or professional studies programs.
  • Promote students’ intellectual development with and  beyond the classroom setting by providing both research and experiential learning opportunities.
  • To foster opportunities for students to obtain practical experiences through internships that focus on issues specific to our disciplines and where appropriate.