Empire State University
All-in On Online
CMS
Modern Campus
Services
Brand, Strategy, UX, Design, Content Personalization, SEO
Launched
2025
THE CHALLENGE
Expanding Reach.
Easing User Experience.
Exploding Enrollment.
Empire State University, a pioneer in accessible higher education, was moving from a hybrid to an all-online university to meet the needs of Gen Z and those seeking degrees later in life.
With a shift toward an all-online student body, the opportunity to reach new audiences was an exciting one—and it changed the competitive landscape. This required an evolution not just in how students learn, but in how Empire State University (also known as SUNY Empire) presents itself as an experience and embodies its brand of believers.
We discovered an approach to reaching key audiences we hadn’t expected, which broke barriers to education for more students. SUNY Empire’s online university website design included:
Our work together didn’t just create excitement. It produced results.
Record-Breaking Stats Since Launch
BRAND
New Site.
Fresh Brand.
Our Content, UX, and Design teams collaborated to create a redesigned web experience that delivers a memorable first impression for diverse prospective students and nurtures them into the funnel with a clear brand story told from their point of view.
The fully responsive design adapts gracefully across device sizes and allows for easy editing by content managers, reducing strain on resources. With a clear and logical content structure that is based on students’ mental models, the site is structured for both improved SEO and increased usability. The new site puts a stamp on the evolving brand and welcomes all prospective students into the community.
The team at iFactory listened closely to thought-leaders from across campus to help our institution plan and launch a website that addresses our school’s needs as we continue to grow and evolve. The prospect-focused site is authentic to our brand and has enabled personalized journeys that mirror our diverse student stories.
ACCESSIBILITY
Empowering UX.
Redefining Accessibility.
With half of its students identifying as having a disability, SUNY Empire is the first and only designated Autism Supportive College. Our research highlighted challenges, particularly for neurodivergent and Gen Z students, shaping our approach to accessibility.
We worked with the university’s accessibility lead to design a journey without default motion, instead empowering users to activate it, or not. Clear, unambiguous copy breaks program selection into small, digestible steps, with prompts guiding students toward enrollment.
From Our Blog
Inclusive UX isn’t just about compliance – it’s about belonging. Discover how Empire State University and iFactory built a neurodivergent-friendly online university website that drives results.
REQUEST FOR INFORMATION
Moving Users Down the Enrollment Funnel
For online institutions like SUNY Empire, getting prospective student leads into a CRM is critical to respond quickly and nurture relationships. Yet asking for too much information upfront can deter engagement.
Through a Slate–Modern Campus integration, we built a low-lift two-step Request for Information (RFI) form. Step one collects the bare minimum info to capture the lead and initiate contact; step two, optional, gathers more robust details to support the enrollment team. Within weeks, inquiries were off the charts – and conversions followed suit.
PERSONALIZATION
Custom Design.
Personalized Content.
SUNY Empire’s diverse student body, customized curriculum, and competitive tuition (lower than in-state rates in 31 other states) make it an ideal candidate for personalized content. With over 120 programs and distinct audiences, such as military, union, and adult learners, messaging can be tailored to student interests, boosting engagement and enrollment.
We created a system of high-visibility personalized designs and messages triggered by location and browsing behavior, highlighting tuition benefits, relevant programs, and deadlines. A bespoke content block serves as a visual design cue for personalized content.
We would love to hear from you
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