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Undergraduate Study Opportunities

Empire State College offers a rich array of learning opportunities from which to choose, including guided independent study, online courses, study groups and residency-based studies. Student also may review offerings from other colleges and universities and include those in their study plan for the term. Our Center for Distance Learning is a leader in the development of online courses. Our undergraduate learning centers located throughout New York state offer a rich blend of learning opportunities including guided independent study, study groups and internships. Throughout the year, various learning centers offer credit-bearing programs open to students from across the college. These include teach-ins on special topics; photojournalism, documentary photography and women in photography; and workshops and study tours.

A complete list of opportunities for the upcoming year is available in our Annual Learning Opportunities Inventory. Brief descriptions of some of the options are below to help you get started.

Guided Independent Study

In guided independent study you work one-to-one with a faculty member on a study. You may periodically meet face-to-face with a faculty tutor at one of our many locations across the state, or work with a faculty tutor at a distance – by mail, phone and/or the Internet. Depending on your goals, you may work with your mentor to create and define an individualized study or you may select a study from the term guide. Some learning opportunity listings provide a general subject area, and you work with the mentor to develop a learning contract that meets your needs. Students are strongly encouraged to individualize their studies when appropriate.

Study Groups

Students working independently on the same subject get together on a scheduled basis to discuss their learning with each other and a faculty member. Lists of study groups for the upcoming term are available.

Empire State College Residencies and Other Special Learning Opportunities

Empire State College offers opportunities to learn and earn credit through many special learning opportunities such as weekend intensive residencies, travel study groups and other opportunities.

Distance Learning Opportunities

Courses that can be completed entirely at a distance are another learning option. A list of upcoming term offerings is available, as is the complete Distance Learning Catalog.

Cross Registration

You may find it advantageous to take a course at another college or university from time to time to complete your degree requirements at Empire State College. You may enroll in a course for academic credit at a college or university that is accredited or a candidate for accreditation by a recognized regional accrediting agency. By doing so, you expand the variety of learning resources available. More information about cross registration is available.

Workshops

Noncredit workshops are offered regularly to students, particularly in the areas of writing and degree program portfolio development. Check with your location or program for scheduled workshops.