Partner With Empire State University

 

Education That Works for Your Workforce

At Empire State University, we create partnerships that align learning with the needs of real people and real careers. From degree programs to custom training, we collaborate with employers, unions, schools, and agencies to build flexible, affordable solutions that drive results.

Trusted by Partners Across New York

From hospitals and unions to school districts and workforce organizations, we’ve built long-standing partnerships that expand access to education and support workforce goals.

Our partners include:

  • CVS Health Corporation
  • Ellis Medicine
  • GEICO
  • International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAMAW)
  • New Era Cap Company
  • New York State Department of Labor
  • New York State Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services
  • Northwell Health, Inc.
  • Saratoga Hospital
  • Union Plus

Plus 50+ community colleges, 25+ other academic institutions, branches of the U.S. military, and more.

Here’s how we work with organizations across sectors:

Healthcare

We help healthcare organizations grow talent, address staffing needs, and support employees without pulling them off the job.

  • Online nursing and allied health pathways from certificate to master's degree
  • Support for LPN-to-RN-to-BSN progression
  • Credit for prior learning and professional training
  • Custom programs co-designed with hospitals and health providers
  • Rural and urban workforce solutions tailored to community needs

Technology

Tech talent solutions built through job-focused education and close collaboration with employers.

  • Programs in cybersecurity, cloud computing, data analytics, and IT
  • Industry certifications that stack into degree programs
  • Custom training aligned with emerging workforce demands
  • Tech apprenticeship models that deliver measurable impact

Education

We partner with districts, BOCES, and education organizations to build the next generation of teachers.

  • Paraprofessional-to-teacher pathways
  • TESOL and bilingual educator credentials
  • Credit for classroom and instructional experience
  • Flexible, online programs that support working professionals

Unions

Helping union members turn hard-earned experience into college credit and career advancement.

  • Credit for union-sponsored training
  • Tuition discounts for union members
  • Career-aligned degrees in healthcare, education, business, and public service
  • Customized leadership development and academic pathways

Military

We grant degrees to more military-affiliated students than any other SUNY institution. We’re proud to serve service members, veterans, and their families through flexible, supportive programs.

  • Credit for military training and experience
  • Online learning that fits around deployments and PCS moves
  • Dedicated Veterans and Military Resource Center (VMRC)
  • Partnerships with bases and veteran agencies for smooth transitions

Community Colleges

Transfer-friendly policies help students stay on track and move toward their bachelor’s (and beyond).

  • Transfer up to 79 credits toward a bachelor’s degree (which saves time and money)
  • Guaranteed admission through articulation agreements
  • Credit for prior learning and professional experience
  • Online programs designed for working adults

High Schools (Dual Enrollment)

High school students can jump-start their college journey with flexible, career-aligned courses.

  • Online dual enrollment programs built with local districts and BOCES
  • Courses in healthcare, education, business, and more
  • Affordable and often free options for students and families
  • Early pathways to entry-level jobs and future degrees

Workforce Development

We work with employers and agencies to create practical training that meets regional needs.

  • Registered and custom apprenticeship models
  • Short-term certificates and microcredentials
  • Credit for on-the-job experience
  • Flexible delivery across shifts, locations, and industries
  • Collaboration with economic development boards and workforce agencies

CAARES (Center for Autism Advocacy: Research, Education, and Supports)

CAARES offers support, training, and collaborative partnerships that promote equity and inclusion for autistic and neurodivergent individuals across educational and professional settings.

  • Partnering with schools, employers, and advocacy groups to promote inclusive practices
  • Offering training and consultation to support neurodivergent students and employees
  • Advancing research and community engagement in autism advocacy
  • Supporting access, awareness, and self-determination through education and outreach
  • Available as a resource for both formal partnerships and community-based collaboration

Whether integrated into existing partnerships or supporting new initiatives, CAARES helps ensure programs are inclusive, informed, and responsive to the needs of diverse learners and professionals.

Partnership Benefits

Empire State University’s Partnership Programs offer:

  • Associate, bachelor’s and master’s degrees
  • Affordable college tuition
  • A flexible learning model that fits around your busy schedule
  • An accelerated path to degree completion
  • Credit for prior learning
  • $100 Better Together Scholarship and a waiver of the $50 orientation fee*

*Students must provide a valid partnership code at the time of application to receive these benefits. The code can be obtained from the designated representative at the partner organization.

 

Let’s Build a Pathway Together

photo of the front iron gate of Empire State University

Want to explore what a partnership could look like? We’ll work with you to build programs that meet your goals and support your people.

To get started, please contact the Office of Partnerships by phone at 800-847-3000, ext. 2851, or by email at Partners@SUNYEmpire.edu.