Graduate Studies Program

SUNY Empire State College, Graduate Studies Program History

State University of New York/Empire State College, founded in 1971, is a public, coeducational institution. The campus is located in a small town 25 miles north of Albany. Total undergraduate and graduate enrollment is approximately 7200. Figures given in the above capsule are approximate.

The Graduate Studies Program was founded in 1984 and is located on the main campus. The basic educational approach is to provide a competency-based MBA program for individuals in management.

SUNY Empire State College, Graduate Studies Program Academics

The Graduate Studies Program offers the Master of Business Administration (MBA) and Master of Arts in Business and Policy Studies (MA). Other programs include interdisciplinary programs and cross-registration. The strongest areas of study are economics, public policy, and management. The most popular course is business electives.

Sixty total credits are required to complete the MA in Business and Policy Studies, including 12 elective credits. Required courses for the MA in Business and Policy Studies include:

• Policy Studies I
• Business Emphasis Seminar: American Business History
• Economic and Financial Analysis
• Government, Business, and International Perspectives
• Leadership and Management in Business
• Modes of Inquiry/Directed Research

Students may eliminate or substitute requirements (MBA only).

Business students may take relevant nonbusiness courses in other departments. The minimum time permitted to complete the master’s degree program attending full time is 4 terms; maximum, 6 years. For students attending part time, the minimum is 6 terms; maximum, 6 years.

There are 5 total full-time graduate business faculty, all of whom hold a doctorate; there are 10 part-time faculty, all of whom hold a doctorate. Faculty salaries are rated above average for Category IIB institutions, based on the AAUP rating system. Average number of courses faculty teach is 2; average business class size is 15.

SUNY Empire State College, Graduate Studies Program Unique Programs

Library

Students have access to databases and networks in the fields of business and allied subject areas. Other opportunities for research consist of the Reference and Research Library Resources System of New York, the New York State Interlibrary Loan System, and the Internet.

Computers

Graduate business students need not have their own PCs.

Career and Job Placement

Placement services are limited, since most students are already employed full time. Placement services for alumni include on-line information through the college’s web site.

International Students

International students must take the TOEFL. They also must submit a translation of their transcripts, proof of health consisting of MMR immunization, and proof of adequate funds. Check with the school for current application deadlines.

Calendar

The school operates on a term basis. Semesters are 24 weeks long. Graduate programs are offered at a distance, using mail, computer, and phone to communicate with faculty. The program requires 5 weekend residencies for MBA students and 3 for MA students. The residenies are usually held in Saratoga Springs or Albany.

SUNY Empire State College, Graduate Studies Program Admissions

A bachelor’s degree is required. Most important admissions factors are essays, work experience, and quality of undergraduate school. A strong mathematics background is not required.

The number of applicants for a recent class was 40; 30 were accepted; 25 enrolled. Transfers are accepted. Minority students are actively recruited by by publicizing minority fellowships.

Students may begin the MBA program in the fall and spring. To apply, students must submit an application form, a transcript, a nonrefundable application fee, 3 letters of recommendation, 2 essays, and a resume. Students are notified of the admissions decision shortly after applications are complete. Once accepted, students may defer admission for up to 1 year. Check with the school for current application deadlines and fees.

SUNY Empire State College, Graduate Studies Program Financial Aid

Stipends and programs available for minority students include the Underrepresented Minority Graduate Fellowship Program (UMGFP). The FAFSA is required. Check with the school for current application deadlines.

Tuition for all students is $12,000 per year. Books and supplies cost approximately $2500; and other fees, $150, for an estimated annual total of $14,650. Graduate student housing is available at a local hotel/conference facility for 5 weekend residencies per year for students in the MBA program. There is a referral service to help procure off-campus housing.

SUNY Empire State College, Graduate Studies Program Students

Ninety-nine percent of a recent graduate business school class had an average of 16 years of full-time work experience prior to entering graduate school, a factor preferred by the school. The greatest percentage of students are from New York (94%). Thirty-five percent are women and 14% are minorities. The average age at entrance is 42; ages range from 32 to 51. One percent enter directly from undergraduate school; 1% already have a graduate degree.