Empire State University’s Enrollment Increases for Fourth Year in a Row 

Note: Since this article was published, enrollment numbers were adjusted to a 12% increase in new student enrollment and 9% increase in overall student enrollment due to Fall Term 2 students being enrolled in October 2025.

With the fall 2025 semester underway, Empire State University begins this term with another year of enrollment increases. New student enrollment has increased by 7.2%, and overall student enrollment has gone up by 7.4%.  

Amidst a challenging higher education landscape of enrollment declines, SUNY Empire is well-positioned to meet student needs and provide accessible, flexible, and high-quality education. The university currently serves 17,500 students and has over 120 degree programs. 

This year, Empire State University expanded its course offerings, adding three new bachelor’s programs and three new master’s programs for the fall semester to meet the needs of current and future students. The university also granted 434 eligible students associate degrees as part of its associate degree granting program. 

“Our enrollment growth this year is a result of the university’s commitment to access and innovation,” said Vice President of Enrollment Management and Marketing Andrea Hennessy. “By continuing to expand our online academic programs and strengthening workforce partnerships, we’ve been able to meet students where they are and provide flexible pathways to success. Coupled with targeted marketing campaigns that tell our story in authentic ways, these efforts have allowed us to reach more learners and support their educational goals. This growth reflects not only the strength of our programs but also the dedication of our faculty and staff to student success.”