SUNY Empire State College

I was in my mid-30's and wanted to make a career change, but needed to finish my bachelor's degree to do so. I did extensive research into online degree programs because I was going to have to work full time while taking classes and didn't have a schedule... Read More that allowed me to attend evening classes at a brick-and-mortar school. I was pleasantly surprised to find out that the SUNY system not only offered online degrees, but also offered a degree specifically in my field of interest, not just in "General Studies" or some other generic subject. With my veteran's tuition discount, ESC was cheaper than in-state tuition at my local state university, and their generous and flexible credit acceptance policy meant that credits from previous college courses, the military, and even work/life experience would help me graduate sooner at ESC than anywhere else, and I was able to go from having an AA to a bachelor's in just 4 semesters of part-time study. I graduated summa cum laude with my bachelor's in 2021 and had several job offers before my last semester was over. I now have an exciting and fulfilling new career with a great salary and benefits. I have been accepted to some of the most prestigious graduate programs in my field of study and will be starting my master's degree in Spring 2022. ESC is for adult learners who know how to manage their time and meet deadlines. Having a great mentor is key, and I appreciate mine for all the time and effort she put into my education. You will get out of ESC what you put into it.

SUNY Empire was my first complete online school, for half of my Bachelors and my Masters. I had a great experience while going here, to the point when I continue to look for online schools, I use Empire's standards. I was searching for online schools... Read More to get my Master's and almost all want Live classes. If I'm busy with working and family, and unable to attend school physically, obviously Live classes would be just as inconvenient. Online is SUPPOSED to be convenient and helpful with managing your life and going to school and Empire absolutely nails that. I truly struggled with finding school that works like Empire because it was amazing. Therefore, I ended up going back to Empire for my Master's degree. What I hate, they have VERY LIMITED Master's program. It's ridiculous! I would get a double Master's and Doctorate if they would provide! Also their Master's does not really match their Bachelor's program, which they have a large and great selection from on that part. I've only had maybe 3 teacher's that were horrible from the time there. My advisor was great also but when she left, her replacement was terrible, no contact from her. Luckily this was towards the last 3 months before I graduated. Also great curriculum!!