The professors are willing to work with you — through life events or just your daily
work.
Student Experience
At Empire State University (SUNY Empire), we’ve built an experience designed for your life. Whether you're looking for flexible learning, career direction, a strong support system, or meaningful community, we’re here to help you thrive online and beyond. Explore the sections below to see how we support you at every stage of your journey.
Study Your Way
Your education should work for you, not against your schedule. At SUNY Empire, courses are designed for busy adults with jobs, families, and real-life responsibilities. You’ll have the flexibility to study when it makes sense for you, plus the support of faculty who understand what it takes to succeed online.
How do online classes work at SUNY Empire?
Most courses are asynchronous, meaning you can log in and study anytime. You’ll move
through weekly modules, complete assignments, and connect with classmates and instructors
through discussion boards and messaging.
Can I balance school with work and family?
Yes. Our flexible terms and part-time options are built to meet you where you are.
Whether you're working full time, caring for kids, or juggling both, you can move
forward at a pace that fits your life.
Who teaches the courses?
Our faculty are experienced SUNY instructors who specialize in working with adult
learners. They are supportive, responsive, and committed to helping you reach your
goals.
I was able to complete my degree working two jobs and being pregnant. I think anyone
can do it. Never say never. Just do it.
Career Support That Stays With You
We support your career goals from the day you start as a student and long after you graduate. Whether you're switching careers, growing in your current field, or just figuring out your next step, our career services team is here to help you move forward with clarity and confidence.
What kind of career support is available?
You can get help with writing resumes and cover letters, preparing for interviews,
planning your job search, and building a strong professional presence. All services
are available online and free to students.
Can I get help figuring out my next step?
Yes. Our career coaches offer self-assessments, one-on-one guidance, and personalized
tools to help you explore your strengths and set clear goals.
Do services continue after I graduate?
Absolutely. As a SUNY Empire alum, you will continue to have access to our career
support resources at no cost.
Learn more about career services at SUNY Empire.
Career Services
Fun Fact:
Our director of career and experiential learning services, Anita DeCianni Brown, hosts an online interview series called Ask5. It’s dedicated to discussing career options and helping students navigate the obstacles that can come with those next steps.
Find Your People, Wherever You Are
You might be learning online, but you're never on your own. SUNY Empire offers a variety of ways to connect with other students, build friendships, and get involved in meaningful ways. We have 10+ active clubs and communities. Whether you're looking for support, shared interests, or leadership opportunities, there's a place for you here.
Are there clubs I can join as an online student?
Yes. From the Black Male Initiative and LGBTQIA+ student groups to Esports and academic
clubs, there are many virtual communities to explore and be part of.
How do I meet other students?
You can connect through virtual events, online discussions, student forums, and even
in-person meetups at select locations across the state.
Can I be a student leader?
Definitely. Students can get involved in student government, peer mentoring, and leadership
programs that help you grow personally and professionally.
Learn more about our clubs and communities at SUNY Empire.
Clubs and Communities
Why SUNY Empire?
At SUNY Empire, we do things differently. We were built to serve adult learners, transfer students, and anyone looking for a flexible path to a meaningful degree. With personalized support, affordable tuition, and the strength of the State University of New York behind you, you can move forward with confidence.
What makes SUNY Empire different?
We focus on flexibility, support, and real-life learning. Our programs are designed
to meet students where they are and help them reach their goals on their own terms.
Is SUNY Empire part of the SUNY system?
Yes. We are part of the State University of New York, which means you get a respected
education with access to statewide resources and networks.
Who succeeds here?
Our students are working parents, military service members, first-generation college
students, career changers, and lifelong learners. If you are motivated and ready,
you belong here.
Learn more about what makes us different.
I chose SUNY Empire because of the flexibility to earn a degree online while balancing
my family and work schedule.
Books, Gear, and Everything You Need
Getting what you need for class should be simple. The SUNY Empire online bookstore
makes it easy to order textbooks, course materials, and Empire gear all in one place.
Whether you prefer digital or print, we've got options to fit your learning style
and budget.
How do I buy books for class?
Log in through the bookstore, find your course list, and place your order. You can
choose from new, used, digital, or rental options depending on availability.
Can I rent books instead of buying them?
Yes. Many textbooks are available for short-term rental, which can be a more affordable
option for students.
Do you sell SUNY Empire gear?
Yes. You can order sweatshirts, mugs, notebooks, and other items to show your Empire
pride.
The Library That Never Closes
The SUNY Empire library is fully online and always open. You’ll have access to thousands of academic resources, research tools, and one-on-one support from expert librarians. Whether you're writing a paper or exploring a new topic, help is just a few clicks away.
How do I access library resources as an online student?
You can log in through your student portal to search scholarly databases, read e-books,
and access academic journals anytime.
Can someone help me with research?
Yes. You can chat live with a librarian, schedule a one-on-one session, or use research
guides and citation tools designed to support your assignments.
Does the library have textbooks?
Yes, some textbooks are available through the library. An up-to-date list of available
textbooks is posted each semester on the library site.
Learn more about the library.
Because we’re focused only on online learners, SUNY Empire’s library makes your experience
affordable and accessible. Our library serves learners 24/7/365 through immediate
access to an expert, provides free textbooks for 2 of every 3 courses at Empire, and
facilitates access to over a million ebooks and journals.
A Celebration That Honors Your Journey
Graduation is a big milestone, and we make it special. Commencement at SUNY Empire is a celebration of your hard work, your journey, and your success. Whether you attend in person or online, you're part of a community that honors every step you took to get here.
Can online students attend graduation?
Yes. We offer multiple ceremonies each year and provide livestream options so every
graduate has a chance to celebrate with family and friends.
How do I know if I’m eligible to graduate?
You can check your progress with your academic advisor and review the official graduation
checklist to make sure you're on track.
What is the ceremony like?
Commencement is joyful, inspiring, and personal. Students walk the stage, hear messages
from peers and faculty, and celebrate with the SUNY Empire community.
Learn more about Commencement.
In-Person Residencies
Residencies offer current SUNY Empire students unique experiential learning opportunities in person. These short, immersive study experiences take place at relevant locations and enrich your degree through hands‑on workshops or field exploration. Examples include the Civil War History Residency, where students visit Gettysburg and Antietam for a three‑day field trip, and other offerings like the Adirondack Environmental Studies Residency and American Revolutionary War Era Residency.
One of the things that I really like about SUNY Empire is that the students can always
reach out to each instructor directly.
