SUNY Empire State University, part of the State University of New York (SUNY) system, stands out for its innovative approach to higher education tailored for adult learners. Established to provide flexible, individualized learning paths, it offers associate, bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degrees through mentoring, online courses, and prior learning assessment. Located across New York State with centers like the one in Selden on Long Island, it serves diverse students seeking careers in education, business, nursing, and more. Jobs at SUNY Empire State University attract professionals passionate about non-traditional education models, emphasizing mentorship over conventional lecturing.
The Selden center focuses on community college partnerships and local programs, making it a hub for regional talent. With a commitment to accessibility, the university employs faculty who design customized degree plans, helping students translate real-world experience into academic credit. This unique model creates dynamic job opportunities in teaching, advising, and administration.
Founded in 1971 as Empire State College, it pioneered the mentoring model in American higher education. In 2020, it rebranded to SUNY Empire State University, expanding its online offerings and doctoral programs. From its roots in serving working adults, it has grown to over 15,000 students, with centers in Buffalo, Rochester, and Selden. Key milestones include launching the first fully online SUNY bachelor's degree in 1997 and emphasizing equity in education. This history shapes jobs, prioritizing innovative educators who adapt to evolving learner needs.
SUNY Empire State University structures programs around seven schools: Arts and Humanities, Business, Education, Health Sciences, Nursing, Science, Mathematics and Technology, and Social and Behavioral Sciences. Degrees range from Associate of Arts/Science to Doctor of Education. The Selden location specializes in nursing and allied health, partnering with Suffolk County Community College. Faculty jobs involve interdisciplinary mentoring, allowing professionals to teach across fields like educational leadership or sustainability studies.
Career opportunities span faculty, staff, and leadership roles. Common positions include academic mentors (full-time faculty), adjunct instructors, academic advisors, enrollment counselors, and IT specialists for online platforms. Administrative jobs cover human resources, finance, and student services. For a full breakdown, visit our university job types page. Many roles support the hybrid model, ideal for those interested in remote higher ed jobs.
To understand jobs at SUNY Empire State University, key terms include:
For faculty jobs, a doctoral degree (PhD, EdD, or equivalent) in the relevant discipline is typically required, especially for tenure-track positions. Master's degrees suffice for adjuncts or specialized roles like nursing instructors. Administrative roles often need a bachelor's plus experience; HR jobs may require certifications like SHRM-CP. In Selden, health sciences positions prioritize clinical credentials alongside advanced degrees.
While teaching-centric, research in adult education, online pedagogy, and PLA is valued. Expertise in distance learning technologies or equity in higher ed strengthens applications. Faculty might contribute to studies on mentoring efficacy, aligning with the university's mission.
Candidates with publications in peer-reviewed journals, grant funding experience, or prior mentoring stand out. For administrators, 3-5 years in higher ed, especially community colleges, is preferred. Selden roles favor local experience in Long Island education. Check employer branding secrets for insights on attracting talent.
Essential skills include strong communication, cultural competency, digital literacy for platforms like Brightspace, and adaptability. Competencies like student-centered advising, conflict resolution, and data-driven decision-making are crucial. For tech roles, proficiency in learning management systems; for faculty, portfolio assessment skills.
Jobs are posted on the SUNY jobs portal. Submit a cover letter, CV, and teaching/mentoring statement. Tips:
Review how to write a winning academic CV for success.
SUNY Empire State University prioritizes equity through the President's Advisory Council on Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging. Initiatives include bias training, affinity groups for underrepresented faculty, and scholarships for diverse students. The Selden center hosts cultural events and partners with HBCUs. Recent efforts: increasing BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, People of Color) faculty hires by 20% since 2020.
Known for flexibility, employees enjoy remote/hybrid options, generous PTO (up to 25 days annually), and tuition remission. Selden's center offers modern facilities, proximity to beaches, and NYC commute under 1 hour. Campus life includes professional development workshops, wellness programs, and social committees. Faculty report high satisfaction due to autonomous scheduling and meaningful student impact.
Jobs at SUNY Empire State University offer rewarding paths in innovative higher education, especially for those passionate about adult learners. Explore higher ed jobs, higher ed career advice, university jobs, or post a job on AcademicJobs.com to advance your career.
