Frequently Asked Questions About Earning a Degree as an Adult Learner

If you’re returning to school as an adult learner to earn your degree, you may have many questions. At SUNY Empire, we understand you’re already juggling multiple responsibilities, and we want to ensure all your questions get answered.

We collected our top questions adult learners ask when applying to SUNY Empire. We asked four of our recruiters to provide answers.

Q1: Will I have the time?

Chris: Yes, SUNY Empire provides flexibility, incorporating your studies into your life by offering asynchronous online courses. That means studying whenever you can, wherever you are.

Laura: Yes, SUNY Empire State is SUNY’s leading online institution, making college more flexible and accessible than ever!

Q2: Can I afford it?

Chris: As part of the SUNY system, we offer tuition rates of $295 a credit. SUNY Empire also has helpful and knowledgeable representatives in student financial services to help walk you through financial aid options and the financial aid process.

Laura: Since we offer credit for prior learning, your degree may be even more affordable, saving you time and money. We also have one of the most affordable tuition rates compared to out-of-state online competitors.

Q3: Am I smart enough?

Chris: Of course you are! If you do need help, we have many support services to help you achieve your academic goals, such as Tutor Me (a 24-hour tutoring service) and MUCH MORE! 

Joe: Yes! We give you the tools to be successful. We offer tutoring options, and you’ll be assigned an academic advisor who is your point of contact throughout your enrollment at SUNY Empire.

Q4: Am I too old?

Chris: No. Age is just a number! Our average student is in their mid-thirties, but we also see plenty of students in their 70s and 80s. Keep in mind, SUNY Empire serves a higher percentage of adult and working learners than any other undergraduate-degree-granting college in New York state.

Joe: No! We have students of all ages earning their degree. It’s never too late to accomplish your dreams.

Laura: You are never too old to learn and further your education! Don’t doubt yourself, no matter what your starting point is.

Q5: Is it worth it?

Chris: Definitely. Our students save time and money due to our generous and flexible way of bringing in transfer credits. Not only that, but we give credit for life learning and experience gained outside a traditional classroom!

Joe: Yes. Through our life credit options, we can save a student time and money on their degree. Not to mention the feeling you get when you walk across the stage to receive your degree as your family members cheer for you.

Laura: It is! Your earning potential could increase with a degree from SUNY Empire, as well as your ability to advance in the workplace. The feeling of accomplishing your dreams is the best feeling in the world!

Q6: Can I do it?

Chris: Yes, we have many supports to keep students engaged and on the track toward their academic goals. We have many virtual workshops that aid in different aspects of our college life.

Laura: You can! Through our online orientation, you will learn about the supports we have in place to help you succeed and stay on track. We also have online course tutorials to help you learn how to succeed using the online course format. 

Begin your educational journey at SUNY Empire

Our recruiters take pride in helping you take the next step in your educational journey. If you have more questions, attend one of our virtual information sessions.