Online Learning
Pursue another degree, or take a single course, from the comfort of your home. Choose from more than 50 high-quality online education programs.
Your Education, Your Way
Since 2001, UB's Graduate School of Education has been a pioneer in online education, offering innovative, flexible and high-quality learning experiences tailored to meet the needs of today’s busy students. We understand the demands of balancing work, family and other responsibilities, which is why we are dedicated to providing accessible learning options that empower you to achieve your goals—on your schedule. Whether you're looking for the convenience of an entirely online program or prefer the best of both worlds with a hybrid option that combines online courses and in-person learning, we offer a range of programs designed to fit your lifestyle and support your success. Our online learning environment is engaging, interactive and supported by expert faculty who are leaders in their fields.
A Trusted Reputation
The University at Buffalo is synonymous with academic excellence. As the first SUNY institution invited to join the prestigious Association of American Universities, UB has a legacy of delivering world-class education and fostering innovation. That same dedication to quality extends to our online programs, ensuring you receive the same rigorous curriculum and expert instruction as our on-campus students. Our online courses are thoughtfully designed to maintain the academic integrity and excellence UB is known for. Taught by accomplished faculty who are leaders in their fields, these programs blend flexibility with the proven standards of a top-tier research university.
Available Online Programs
Fully online programs allow you to complete 100 percent of your coursework online. Check program pages for additional requirements.
Blended programs allow you to complete 50 percent or more of your coursework online.
Is Online Learning Right for Me?
UB has been honing online learning for years, ensuring that you’ll get the same one-on-one attention and sense of community from online classes as you would if you studied in person. If you’re an independent learner with good time management skills and have at least 10 hours a week to devote to your classes, online learning may be a great choice for you.
What You Can Expect
An online degree from UB is taught by the same world-class faculty as our on-campus classes. Smaller class sizes give faculty a chance to know you more personally, even if you’re not sitting in front of them. And, at the same time, you benefit from working with students from around the world.
Frequently Asked Questions
Fall and spring courses are generally 15 weeks in length. You can expect to spend an average of 9–12 hours per week on readings and assignments for a 3-credit course. Summer courses range from 6–12 weeks in duration. Because these courses are delivered over a shorter period of time, you should expect to spend between 13.5 and 18 hours per week on readings and assignments.
Additional time may be required to research or prepare for final papers. Some programs may also contain online group work, field work or other requirements that should be considered when registering.
All courses are delivered completely online through UB Learns, the university’s online system. All course materials, including syllabi, assignments and important messages, are posted here. Some courses meet online, in real time; typically, though, you will interact with faculty and peers in an asynchronous format by replying to message boards, viewing videos and more.
You will interact with your classmates and instructors through tools including discussion boards, blogs and group work. You may also communicate via Zoom, Skype, email and, in some cases, podcasting and video tools.
GSE online courses follow the same academic calendar as campus-based courses. They are not self-paced and adhere to a calendar that will be outlined in your syllabi. You can log in to your class and post to the discussion board from anywhere, anytime before an assignment’s due date.
It depends on the student and program. Some students are able to complete their studies within one calendar year, while programs with more requirements can take two years or more. All programs are offered on a part-time basis only. You should choose a program that best accommodates your schedule.
All students are required to have access to a computer that meets the University computing standards as well as daily access to a reliable broadband connection. Students are also expected to have basic computer competency before beginning their coursework.
To be eligible for financial aid, you must:
- Be in good academic standing, a U.S. citizen or an eligible non-citizen.
- Be registered for selective service (males only).
- Be registered for at least six (6) credits or be a half-time equivalent as determined by the Graduate School.
- Be admitted to receive a formal financial aid award.
- NOT be defaulted on a previous educational loan.
The University at Buffalo’s Financial Aid office is available to assist students with any questions they have regarding financial aid.
Online students who complete a master's or doctoral degree are encouraged to come to the University at Buffalo to attend the commencement ceremony. Each May, the Graduate School of Education holds its commencement in The Center for the Arts Main Stage Theater. All September, February and June conferrals are invited to attend.
Please note: Both on-campus and online students who receive an advanced graduate certificate do not participate in the commencement ceremony.
As a member of the UB Alumni Association, you will gain access to professional development tools and a network of graduates from across the world. Members can also capitalize on networking and outreach opportunities with alumni through Facebook, X and LinkedIn.
How Do I Apply?
A member of our admissions team will assist you through the process. All you need are your transcripts and supporting documents, a completed application and your application fee.