Asian Studies BA at University at Buffalo

Programme overview

Given that most people on this planet live in Asia, if you want to make a difference in this world, it helps tremendously to understand Asian culture, politics and economies. Whether you’re interested in an international career, want to study the relationship between Asia and the U.S., or simply want a non-Western perspective, the Asian studies major is a practical choice that prepares you to lead the way.

Faculty: College of Arts and Sciences | Department: Asian Studies | Study mode: full-time | Location: Buffalo, NY, United States

What you will study

From the history of Muslim empires and Chinese philosophy to explorations of Bollywood and Japanese anime, our Asian studies classes have covered an exceptional range of topics. Here, you can choose your Asian language requirement, determine what region to study, then follow your interests in history, health, culture or nearly any topic.

Career pathways

Around the world, employers recognize the value of graduates who have a deep understanding of Asian languages, politics, economics, religion and other elements, and can help bring people together across different cultures. Maybe you want to work in international business, management, finance, or for a non-governmental organization (NGO).

Official programme page

Application information

Domestic applicants: USD 7,070 a year (2026-27). Undergraduate tuition for New York State residents, 2026-27 estimate, as listed for undergraduates generally; excludes fees (listed separately at $3,966), housing and related expenses. Rate applies to the undergraduate career, not a programme-specific fee Source

International applicants: USD 29,070 a year (2026-27). Undergraduate tuition for F-1/J-1 international students (same figure listed for out-of-state students), 2026-27 estimate, as listed for undergraduates generally; excludes fees ($6,466 for F-1/J-1 including International Student Fee and SUNY health insura Source

Fall entry (classes begin in August) and spring entry (classes begin in January) for first-year and transfer students.

Fall entry, domestic first-year: application opens August 1; Early Action (non-binding) deadline November 1; Honors College priority consideration December 15; Regular Decision deadline February 1; enrollment deposit due May 1 or 10 days after acceptance, whichever is later. Applications may continue to be submitted until capacity is reached.

Fall entry, domestic transfer: application opens August 1; priority scholarship consideration March 15; Regular Decision deadline May 1.

Fall entry, international first-year and transfer: Early Action November 1; Honors College priority consideration December 15; Regular Decision deadline February 1.

Spring entry: recommended application date is October 1 for first-year and international applicants and December 1 for domestic transfer applicants (priority scholarship consideration November 1 for transfer).

The application fee is $50 (non-refundable); applicants submit one of the Common Application, Coalition Application or ApplySUNY. SAT and ACT scores are not required for admission and scholarship consideration and may be submitted optionally. Fee waivers are accepted from SUNY, Common App, Coalition, College Board and NACAC.

Law (JD) application fee is $85; applicants submit the LSAT or GRE.

MD: AMCAS application accepted June 1 to November 15; supplemental application and materials due December 1; supplemental fee $100; Early Decision AMCAS due August 1 and supplemental due August 31.

Apply through the official page: https://www.buffalo.edu/admissions.html

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