Empire State University

Empire State University, a public institution founded in 1971, emerged from a revolutionary vision by then SUNY Chancellor Ernest Boyer. It was designed from the ground up to dismantle traditional barriers to higher education, such as time constraints, location, and rigid institutional processes, making college-level learning accessible and adaptable for adult students.

At the heart of Empire State University's philosophy is empowering students to chart their own academic course. Here, learners individually define their academic needs, purposes, and efforts. The university prides itself on its exceptional flexibility, with faculty, policies, and procedures meticulously tailored to support each student's unique journey, ensuring they can achieve their educational goals without compromising their existing commitments.

Supporting a vibrant community of 11,404 students, Empire State University fosters a strong sense of belonging and engagement. In a testament to its collaborative spirit, the university community, including students, faculty, staff, and alumni, collectively chose "Blue the Bluebird" as its first-ever mascot in 2020. This significant decision saw nearly 10,000 votes cast, celebrating a symbol that also represents New York's state bird and embodying the university's commitment to its community.