Affordable housing degree certificate to be offered online at UB

BUFFALO, N.Y. — The University at Buffalo School of Architecture and Planning will soon offer an online certificate program in affordable housing, designed for aspiring individuals or current professionals with a bachelor’s degree. This graduate degree certificate was recently approved by the New York State Education Department for implementation in fall 2026.

For over 50 years, the school has worked with the surrounding communities to bring a central educational experience for hopeful architects, environmental designers/preservationists, urban planners and real estate developers. By offering this program online, the school hopes to expand access and reach while offering greater flexibility for current working professionals.

Individuals may complete the affordable housing certificate as a “standalone” academic credential, or in conjunction with an existing University at Buffalo graduate-level degree program, including a Master of Architecture, Master of Science in Real Estate Development, or Master of Urban Planning degree.

“Race, gender and social equity in housing remain a major concern in the architecture and planning disciplines,” says Matthew Roland, director of the real estate development program in the School of Architecture and Planning.

“By addressing new ways to lower the cost of housing planning, design and development, the graduate affordable housing certificate aims to test innovative solutions to existing challenges,” Roland adds.

The newly approved online program will consist of 15 credits, offering courses in housing and community development; affordable housing in practice; real estate principles and processes, and site analysis and development.

The program culminates in an affordable housing independent study, where students are encouraged to reimagine innovative, community-centered design solutions in their own backyard.