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
Program Info
Upcoming Deadlines
Deadlines
Program Start
Apr. 11, 2026
SummerAug. 01, 2026
Fall
Get Deadline Reminders
Application Fee & Annual Tuition
Learn how to get$100 Back
and apply for a$1000 Scholarship
$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!
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.
For more information visit:Financial Aid Office