Largest Public University System in the U.S.A.

State University of New York Bachelor's Year 1 Program

Complete 30 credits in India and transfer to Top 100 US Schools including Cornell - an Ivy League University, Stony Brook, Buffalo, Albany, among others. Transfer on-campus with advanced standing and scholarships.

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Key Program Highlights

64

Campuses

4300+

Majors

40%

Scholarship

Get an admit and transfer opportunity to Top 100 US schools, including Cornell - an Ivy League institution, Stony Brook, Buffalo, Albany, and more, with one year (30 credits) of transfer.

Choose among 4300+ majors across 64 SUNY campuses.

17 Broad Areas of Degree Programs available from Computer Science, Engineering and Sciences to Business Management, Fashion and Communication.

Get an SAT Waiver, up to 40% merit-based scholarships and upGrad-exclusive tuition discounts.

Secure a STEM OPT of up to 36 months, enhancing your career prospects and global opportunities.

Save up to 50 Lacs on your Study Abroad tuition expenses and 20 Lacs on living expenses.

Experience Harvard Business Review Case Studies and 3 Months of Leadership Modules.

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Overview of State University of New York Bachelor's Year 1 Program

SUNY offers cutting-edge bachelor’s programs in a variety of fields, from engineering to nursing, designed to provide students with the skills and knowledge to thrive in global careers. With globally renowned faculty and a focus on hands-on learning, SUNY graduates are prepared to make an immediate impact in their industries.

  • Largest & Prestigious Network: SUNY is the largest public university system in the U.S., offering over 4,300 majors across numerous disciplines, preparing students for successful careers worldwide.
  • Top-Ranked Institutions: SUNY boasts a network of renowned universities, including Cornell University, Stony Brook University, University at Albany, University at Buffalo, Binghamton University, and the Fashion Institute of Technology via SUNY Oneonta.
  • Global Recognition: As a part of SUNY, students gain access to a world-class education that is both prestigious and accessible.

How does this Program work ?

Start your academic journey with the SUNY Bachelor’s Year 1 Program, completing 30 credits (10 Gen-Ed courses) equivalent to the first year of a 4-year undergraduate degree.

Upon successfully finishing Year 1 and meeting the required GPA, you'll be admitted to your chosen SUNY campus and major from Year 2 onward.

Complete your degree with the remaining three years on-campus at a SUNY university, specializing in fields like Engineering, CS, Business, or Liberal Arts.

Students complete 10 Gen-Ed courses, ranging from Calculus to Macro Economics, along with 2 Harvard Business Review case studies and a leadership module as part of their Year 1 curriculum.

About Gen Ed

General Education (GenEd) consists of a set of courses that students complete during the first two years of university to build a broad base of knowledge and skills. GenEd courses are mandatory at all U.S. higher education institutions and account for half of the credit requirements for a bachelor's degree. At SUNY, students have the opportunity to take 10 GenEd courses (30 credits) online, allowing them to then transfer to their preferred campus in their chosen major starting in Year 2.

Key Highlights of the Bachelor's Year 1 Program

What does this course have to offer?

University Rankings

    USA’s Largest Public University System.

    Choose to transfer to prestigious campuses like Cornell University (SUNY), Stony Brook University, University at Buffalo, University at Albany, Binghamton University, SUNY Delhi, FIT, and more, tailored to your major and program of choice.

    With 64 campuses across New York, SUNY offers unmatched diversity, world-class facilities, expert faculty, and research opportunities worth 1 Billion USD on major campuses.

    Over 4300+ majors across fields like engineering, business, science, nursing, arts, and more, ensuring a perfect fit for your academic and career aspirations.

    Stony Brook University is ranked #58 among National Universities and #26 among Public Universities in the USNWR 2025.

    University at Buffalo ranks #76 among National Universities, #36 among Top Public Schools, #169 in Best Value Schools, and #61 in Best Undergraduate Engineering Programs in the USNWR 2025.

    SUNY Albany is ranked #133 among National Universities, #70 among Top Public Schools, and #88 in Best Value Schools (U.S. News & World Report 2024).

    SUNY Delhi holds the #20 spot in Best Regional Colleges North and ranks #12 in Top Public Schools in the U.S. (U.S. News & World Report 2024).

Want to know more?

Know more about the State University of New York Bachelor's Year 1 Program by downloading the program brochure

How our program compares

Why is our program the best Undergraduate Pathway in India?

Exclusivity

SAT Requirement

Scholarships

Tuition Fee Savings

Cultural Integration

Acceptance Rate

SUNY x upGrad Pathway

Only available through upGrad. Direct access to the SUNY system is only available through upGrad.

No SAT required. Saves time and effort.

Merit-based scholarships of up to USD 9,500 annually.

40% savings on tuition fees.

12 months of coursework in India to ease academic and cultural transition.

Higher acceptance rate—students are already part of the SUNY system. A chance at profile building to be eligible for Top 50 US schools including Cornell University.

Traditional Direct Pathway

Available to all students but involves additional application steps.

SAT typically required with a competitive score. The average SAT score required is 1550.

Limited scholarships, often amidst high competition.

Average university fee: USD 33,000 / year. (varies by university).

No preparatory coursework; students face cultural and academic challenges.

Acceptance rate is typically around 9%

Career Outcomes of State University of New York Bachelor's Year 1 Program

Graduating from a prestigious U.S. university like SUNY offers several advantages, particularly in terms of salary, career growth, and industry opportunities. U.S. salaries are notably higher across most STEM fields, reflecting the robust job market and cost of living. Moreover, U.S. institutions like SUNY provide students with access to cutting-edge research, global networks, and stronger ties with top companies, giving graduates a competitive edge in the job market.

Ultimately, the U.S. offers higher salaries and faster career advancement compared to other countries. However, the decision depends on individual goals, career aspirations, and lifestyle preferences.

Expected Salary Range:

Role

India 

USA 

Cyber Security Engineer

INR 5L - INR 10L

$85,000

Production Engineer

INR 4L - INR 8L 

$80,000

Information Security Engineer

INR 6L - INR 12L 

$75,000

AI Engineer

INR 8L - INR 15L 

$90,000

Data Scientist

INR 6L - INR 12L 

$80,000

Aerospace Engineer

INR 7L - INR 15L 

$86,000

Software Engineer

INR 4L - INR 10L 

$70,000

System Analyst

INR 5L - INR 10L 

$78,000

Research Scientist

INR 7L - INR 15L 

$85,000

Sources: Glassdoor, PayScale, Indeed

State University of New York Bachelor's Year 1 Program

Learn with a
World-Class Curriculum

1. Composition I

  • This core writing course is designed to enhance students' skills in elective written communication across various contexts.
  • It emphasizes crafting well-developed, unified prose for different audiences and purposes, including explanatory, analytical, and persuasive writing.

2. Calculus II

  • This course focuses on the integral and its applications, along with numerical approximation methods.
  • Students will use a graphing calculator and a Computer Algebra System (CAS) to explore the following topics: algebraic integration techniques (such as substitution, integration by parts, and partial fraction decomposition), numerical methods for approximating definite integrals (including Riemann sums, the Trapezoidal Rule, and Simpson's Rule), improper integrals, Taylor series, polynomials, and Fourier series.

3. Introductory Macroeconomics

  • The course covers key concepts such as supply and demand, national income, unemployment, inflation, the money and banking systems, and government policies aimed at fostering economic growth and stability.
  • Students will gain proficiency in basic economic principles, critically assess major theories and models, and utilize mathematical tools relevant to social sciences. They will also understand social science methods, develop and test hypotheses related to human behavior, and apply data analysis skills.

4. Introductory Psychology

  • This course provides an overview of scientific approaches to studying and explaining human behavior. It covers historical perspectives, the scientific method, and the biological, genetic, neural, and evolutionary bases of behavior.
  • Topics include sensation and perception, attention, learning, memory, motivation, emotions, problem solving, reasoning, cognition, communication, social psychology, personality, and psychological disorders.

(Choose Any 1)

5. Human Genetics

  • This course covers the fundamental principles of genetics and their role in understanding heredity in humans. Topics include cell division, sex determination, inheritance patterns, gametogenesis, chromosomes, gene mapping, DNA, mutations, pedigree analysis, polygenes, population genetics, genetic counseling, and genetic engineering.
  • Students will apply scientific data, concepts, and models to the field of genetics.

6. Philosophy

  • This course delves into key philosophical issues such as the nature of humanity, the mind, God, the soul, knowledge, truth, reality, evil, death, beauty, freedom, and morality. Through critical analysis and reflection, students engage with foundational questions that have shaped philosophical thought throughout history.
  • The course emphasizes on developing a deeper understanding of various philosophical perspectives and their implications for both individual and collective human experience.
  • The course further encourages rigorous inquiry into the methods of philosophy and its connections to other areas of the humanities, fostering a broader intellectual engagement with fundamental human concerns.

Harvard Business Review (HBR) Case Studies are widely recognized for presenting real-world business challenges faced by organizations, leaders, and industries. Developed by Harvard Business Publishing, these cases provide an in-depth analysis of critical business issues, strategic decisions, and leadership dilemmas, offering valuable insights into management dynamics, innovation, and organizational success.

Each case study is crafted to foster robust discussion and critical thinking, inviting SUNY students to step into the roles of decision-makers and explore various solutions to pressing business problems. Accompanied by expert analysis, strategic frameworks, and actionable recommendations, these cases deepen SUNY students’ understanding and guide their approach to strategic decision-making. Furthermore, HBR Case Studies engage the SUNY students through interactive learning, including group discussions, problem-solving exercises, and leadership simulations.

Rooted in real-world business situations, these case studies provide an authentic and practical perspective on the challenges faced by leaders across diverse industries and therefore, prepare SUNY students to hone leadership skills and complex problem-solving capabilities.

About the Universities

About the Universities

Discover the ideal SUNY Campus for you.

#19 in Best Global Universities on USNWR 2025.

#13 Worldwide in Biological Sciences on QS Ranking 2024.

#30 Worldwide in Communication and Engineering on QS Ranking 2024.

Part of the Ivy League which is known for academic excellence and athletic competitiveness.

Carnegie Classification: R1 - Indicative of highest level of doctoral research activity.

Annual Research Spends of $1.18 billion.

Cornell boasts of 37 varsity sports teams for both men and women.

Flagship school of the SUNY ecosystem.

Carnegie Classification: R1 - Indicative of highest level of doctoral research activity.

10% of 300 Intel Science Talent Search competition mentored by SBU faculty making SBU a major incubator of Intel talent in the country.

The university offers 200+ majors, minors, and combined-degree programs in total.

New York’s Largest Public University.

Ranked #23 in US for hosting International students by Institute of International Education.

Ranked #7 in North-East for undergraduate entrepreneurship by Entrepreneur magazine and The Princeton Review.

Carnegie Classification: R1 - Indicative of highest level of doctoral research activity.

100% of students pursue research, service or experiential learning from year one.

Offers 1000+ study-abroad options with alumni in 150 countries.

Ranked #51 Top National Universities on contributions to public good by Washington Monthly.

Carnegie Classification: R1 - Indicative of highest level of doctoral research activity.

Awards and scholarships to provide financial support for undergraduate research projects and recognize academic excellence.

One of the Top Ranked institutions for Research.

UAlbany’s Graduate programs are ranked Top 50 in the country.

Ranked #1 SUNY School by Forbes and Wall Street Journal in 2025.

Ranked #1 SUNY School in Best Salaries.

Ranked #2 SUNY and #10 in New York in Best Value Schools.

Carnegie Classification: R1 - Indicative of highest level of doctoral research activity.

With over 1,000 faculty members and 19 research centers, the university provides a robust foundation for diverse research initiatives.

Ranked #4 on the list of Best Undergraduate Teaching (SUNY Delhi was the only SUNY institution to make this list).

Internship embedded in the Curriculum.

NCAA Division III college with unlimited athletic opportunities.

Oneonta is the only SUNY university in the region that offers a one-year visiting student program with the Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT) in New York City.

SUNY Oneonta awarded $7.7 million in merit- and need-based scholarships in 2023-24.

20+ scholarships available for students who study abroad or participate in faculty-led field trips, and additional funds support off-campus internships.

University’s Career Center helps students find paid internships in their fields of study and land their first job.

Top 25 Performers on Social Mobility among Regional Universities North.

AACSB accredited.

Division III athletics with unlimited opportunities.

64

Campuses

Why should you choose upGrad SUNY Bachelor’s Year 1 Program?

  • Get admission in Top 100 US Schools including New York based Ivy League Schools and R1 schools including Cornell University, Stony Brook University, University at Buffalo, University at Albany and Binghamton University with one year (30 Credits) of transfer.
  • Annual research spending by these R1 universities include $1.18 billion by Cornell University, $1.1 billion by UAlbany, $474 million by UB, $66.7 million by Binghamton University, and $2.11 billion by Stony Brook University.
  • With a simplified academic criteria and an SAT waiver, this program ensures your admission and allows seamless transfer of first-year credits to all 64 SUNY campuses.
  • Save up to 50 lakhs on the first-year cost and receive up to USD 9,500 in scholarships annually.
  • 12 months of initial coursework in India lets you ease into the academic rigor and develop intellectual and social maturity, otherwise pivotal to your personal and professional success in the US.

Harvard Business Review (HBR) Case Studies

Harvard Business Review (HBR) Case Studies are widely recognized for presenting real-world business challenges faced by organizations, leaders, and industries. Developed by Harvard Business Publishing, these cases provide an in-depth analysis of critical business issues, strategic decisions, and leadership dilemmas, offering valuable insights into management dynamics, innovation, and organizational success.

  • Each case study is crafted to foster robust discussion and critical thinking, inviting SUNY students to step into the roles of decision-makers and explore various solutions to pressing business problems.
  • Accompanied by expert analysis, strategic frameworks, and actionable recommendations, these cases deepen SUNY students’ understanding and guide their approach to strategic decision-making.
  • Furthermore, HBR Case Studies engage the SUNY students through interactive learning, including group discussions, problem-solving exercises, and leadership simulations.

Rooted in real-world business situations, these case studies provide an authentic and practical perspective on the challenges faced by leaders across diverse industries and therefore, prepare SUNY students to hone leadership skills and complex problem-solving capabilities.

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About SUNY

The State University of New York (SUNY) is the largest and most prestigious university system in the U.S., comprising 64 campuses and over 65 years of academic excellence. With more than 4,500 degree programs, SUNY empowers 468,000 students annually, shaping future leaders across industries worldwide. Its global network of nearly 3 million alumni drives innovation, research, and real-world impact, ensuring students thrive in an ever-evolving world.

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How to Choose the Right Elective for the State University of New York Bachelor's Year 1 Program?

What is right for you?

Although the curriculum entails Gen Ed credits which are standardized for an ebay integration into all SUNY schools and largely any American Bachelor’s, this program offers a choice between Human Genetics and Philosophy.

Choosing a career path is not unlike selecting your weekly meal plan—it’s a decision that will shape your future. But unlike meals, this choice requires more than just considering your interests. You need to align your passion with your strengths, career goals, and the evolving demands of the industry.

  • For a career in Science, Technology, Engineering, or Mathematics (STEM), Human Genetics could be the ideal elective to explore.
  • For a career in Management, Marketing, Psychology, Economics, or Finance, consider pursuing the Philosophy elective, which can equip you with the critical thinking skills necessary for success in these areas.

Your path should not only reflect what excites you today but also where you envision yourself tomorrow.

State University of New York Bachelor's Year 1

Your Journey with SUNY

Enroll in SUNY Bachelor’s Year 1 Program.
    Participate in Harvard Business Review Case Studies.
      Choose your Major and Campus.
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        Fulfill all Prerequisite Courses and complete 10 Gen Ed courses.
          Receive Expert Guidance on your Transfer Plan and Profile Building from SUNY Advisors.
            Receive your i20 and transfer on Campus from Year 2.

              State University of New York Bachelor's Year 1 Program

              We will be there right throughout your learning journey

              1

              Hands-on learning

              Videos from top faculty and world-class industry experts

              Built-in practice and coding console

              Industry-oriented projects for real leadership exposure

              Live interventions from faculty and industry experts

              Real time doubt clearing sessions

              2

              Support Services

              Telegram channel for learner communication

              Transfer Advising and Counselling from SUNY Experts

              Learning experience and completion support

              Discussion forum to resolve doubts and learn from peers

              3

              Career and Placement Support

              Access to upGrad job portal

              Soft skills and aptitude modules

              AI-powered profile builder

              Career mentorship

              4

              Networking and Peer Learning

              Online discussion forum to get doubts clarified

              Network and collaborate with 12,000+ alumni

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              What Our Learners Have To Say

              State University of New York Bachelor's Year 1 Online Program Fees

              Invest In Your Success

              14 Months
              Program Fee
              INR 9,50,000*

              Inclusions

              *No taxes applicable
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              Bachelor's Year 1 Program Admission Process

              How To Apply

              The admissions process for the State University of New York's Bachelor’s Year 1 program is fully online offering a seamless and experience for applicants.

               

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              Disclaimer

              1. The above statistics depend on various factors and individual results may vary. Past performance is no guarantee of future results.

              2. The student assumes full responsibility for all expenses associated with visas, travel, & related costs. upGrad does not .