Empire State University

About

Empire State University is New York's only online public university. Founded in 1971 as the innovative campus of the State University of New York, Empire State University empowers learners from diverse backgrounds to achieve their educational goals. With decades of experience providing access to high-quality, affordable education through online teaching and learning, SUNY Empire builds on your experiences to promote growth and drive upward mobility and economic development in New York State and beyond. In July 2025, the University will open a new College of Education and expand its degree offerings.

For aspiring educators, the University specializes in Alternative Teacher Preparation Programs including:
°Transitional B Certificates and
°Accelerated residency pathways

Empire State University also has a new undergraduate degree in early childhood education.

College or University
Saratoga Springs

Institution Links

SUNY Empire State University Highlights:

100,000+ alumni
91 percent pass rate on state teaching exams
Largest serving SUNY four-year military institution
Ranked 1st for student satisfaction among SUNY schools
Over half of students receive Prior Learning Assessment credits
68.5 percent of undergrads receive financial aid
98 percent fully online students
40,000+ credits awarded for work and life experience
Highest percentage of adult learners in New York state

Programs

Bachelor’s & certification

Bachelor of Science in Early Childhood Education

From 18 to 36 months
Program Duration
Online
Program Format
Pre-Test Required
No

Relevant Links

Program

Program Info

SUNY Empire provides an exciting opportunity for motivated individuals passionate about helping young learners thrive. The BS in Early Childhood Education program leads to initial New York state teacher certification and equips you to become a confident, innovative educator. With a flexible blended learning model, you can balance your studies while receiving unwavering support and excellence from SUNY Empire. The coursework offers a strong foundation of current, innovative knowledge, and robust student support services including:

New ways for you to network with peers
Weekly "drop-in" sessions with mentors and faculty members
Newsletters
Webinars
Discussion groups

Get Deadline Reminders

Application Fee & Annual Tuition

$3,535
In State Tuition
$4,240
Out of State Tuition
$50
Application Fee

Ways to Lower Your Costs

Students at Empire State University have reduced the cost of their program using these methods. Check with Empire State University to see if you can, too!

Amount

Description

Varies

Grants, Stipends, Scholarships

SUNY Empire awards more than $750,000 in scholarships annually. The staff at the financial aid office can help find a way to make SUNY Empire affordable for you. Learn more.

Varies

Loan Forgiveness

Learn more about the federal Teacher Loan Forgiveness Program.

Varies

Work Study, Working While Still Enrolled

Thanks to SUNY Empire's unique blended and flexible delivery of course content, 51 percent of students work full-time, and 15 percent work part-time while completing their degree. SUNY Empire also offers work-study opportunities to students enrolled at least half-time. If you're interested, email Work.Study@sunyempire.edu.