Graduate Programs for Working Adults
Advance your career without putting your life on hold
Graduate programs at Empire State University are designed for working adults who are ready for the next step and need a degree that fits real life.
Students from across the country choose SUNY Empire because our graduate programs are:
- 100% online (learn from anywhere)
- Built for working professionals
- Designed with flexible schedules
- Offered with competitive out-of-state tuition
Earn a respected SUNY graduate degree without relocating or stepping away from your career.
Affordable grad programs
Here’s how our out-of-state graduate-level tuition compares to similar schools:
| School | Out-of-State Graduate Tuition (Per Credit) |
|---|---|
| Capella University | up to $790 |
| Empire State University | $565 |
| Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU) | $659 |
| University of Phoenix (UoP) | $698 |
| Grand Canyon University (GCU) | $600 - $750 |
| Strayer University | up to - $830 (Estimated) |
| DeVry University | $776 |
You are ready for more
You are ready for more
If this sounds familiar, you’re in the right place.
- You want to move forward professionally
- You are ready for leadership, impact, or specialization
- You need flexibility that respects your responsibilities
- You want a graduate degree with real-world value
Graduate study at Empire State University meets you where you are and helps you go where you want to be.
Our programs are designed for professionals who want to advance their careers while continuing to work and live wherever they choose.
Graduate study designed around your life
Why students choose Empire State University:
- Fully online graduate programs you can complete from anywhere
- Courses designed for working professionals
- Faculty with academic and professional expertise
- Personalized academic and enrollment support
- Learning you can apply immediately in your career
- A SUNY degree respected nationwide
You bring experience. We help you build on it.
Explore graduate programs
Choose from a wide range of graduate programs designed to support your career growth, leadership development, and professional specialization.
Program areas include:
- Business and management
- Education
- Healthcare and human services
- Public administration
- Liberal arts and sciences
Find a program that aligns with your career and your purpose.
What earing a graduate degree can unlock
What earing a graduate degree can unlock
- Eligibility for advanced and leadership roles
- Greater confidence in decision making
- Stronger professional credibility
- New ways to influence your organization or field
- Personal fulfillment from completing a meaningful goal
This is not just about a credential. It’s about growth.
Support for adult learners
From your first question to graduation, support is built in.
- Dedicated enrollment coaches
- Academic advising throughout your program
- Writing and tutoring resources
- Financial aid and transfer credit guidance
- Technology support when you need it
We are here to help you succeed. We were founded specifically to serve adult learners balancing careers, families, and education.
Ready to take the next step?
Graduate study at Empire State University is flexible, supportive, and designed for adults who are ready to move forward.
