Learn more about how the SUNY Apprenticeship program works with employers and employees to help create pathways to a stronger workforce in New York.
A Registered Apprenticeship is a structured workforce training program approved and overseen by the New York State Department of Labor (NYSDOL). Apprentices are paid employees who receive on-the-job training from an experienced mentor while also completing Related Instruction.
No.
Today there are more than 200 apprenticeable occupations in New York across industries including healthcare, manufacturing, information technology, education, business, hospitality, human services, finance, and many more.
No.
Employers can register either:
No.
Registered Apprenticeship is open to people of all ages and career stages. Apprentices can be recent graduates, career changers, veterans, incumbent workers, or individuals returning to the workforce.
No.
Both union and non-union employers can sponsor Registered Apprenticeship programs.
Yes.
Businesses of all sizes can sponsor a Registered Apprenticeship Program. In fact, many employers begin with just one apprentice. Apprenticeship can be an effective way for small businesses to develop skilled employees, improve retention, and build a talent pipeline tailored to their workforce needs.
Yes.
To be recognized as a New York State Registered Apprenticeship, the program must be registered with and overseen by the New York State Department of Labor.
The registration timeline varies depending on the occupation, the complexity of the program, and how quickly the required documentation is completed. In general, employers should expect the registration process to take approximately two to four months. SUNY works alongside employers and the New York State Department of Labor throughout the process to help make registration as smooth as possible.
Many employers choose with just one apprentice.
The number depends on your workforce needs and your ability to provide appropriate mentoring and training.
Employers pay apprentice wages just like any other employee.
SUNY may be able to provide funding to help cover the cost of the required Related Instruction, subject to available funding and program eligibility.
No. SUNY funding supports eligible Related Instruction costs and does not need to be repaid by the employer or apprentice.
Like any employee, an apprentice may leave before completing the program. There is no penalty to the employer if this occurs, and the employer can continue participating in Registered Apprenticeship and hire or register additional apprentices. Because the apprenticeship model invests in employees' skill development and career advancement, it can also help employers improve employee retention.
No.
SUNY does not place apprentices into jobs.
Employers hire apprentices through their normal hiring process. SUNY's role is to support the educational (Related Instruction) component and connect employers with participating SUNY campuses.
The amount varies by occupation.
Most Registered Apprenticeships include approximately 144 hours of Related Instruction per year, completed alongside employment. The instruction is typically part-time and may be delivered through credit or non-credit courses, depending on the occupation and SUNY program.
Sometimes.
Depending on the SUNY campus and program, apprentices may earn:
An apprentice is a paid employee who earns a wage while learning a skilled occupation through structured on-the-job training and Related Instruction.
You must first be hired by an employer with a Registered Apprenticeship program.
SUNY does not hire apprentices but works with employers and colleges that support apprenticeship programs.
Typically, no.
In many SUNY-supported apprenticeship programs, funding is available to help cover the cost of Related Instruction, subject to program eligibility and available funding.
Yes.
Registered Apprentices are paid employees from their first day of employment.
Many apprenticeship programs include college coursework that can earn academic credit, depending on the participating SUNY campus and program.
Yes. Upon successful completion, apprentices receive a nationally recognized credential issued through the New York State Department of Labor (NYSDOL). Many programs also award college credit or certificates.
An internship is generally a shorter-term learning experience that may or may not be paid and is typically designed to help individuals gain practical workplace experience.
A Registered Apprenticeship is a structured, longer-term program (typically 1-4 years) where participants are paid employees, receive mentorship, complete Related Instruction, and earn an industry-recognized credential. Many apprenticeship programs can also lead to college credit.
Most Registered Apprenticeships last between one and four years, depending on the occupation.
New York State currently recognizes more than 200 apprenticeable occupations across a wide range of industries — not just the traditional skilled trades. Occupations include healthcare, advanced manufacturing, information technology, education, business, hospitality, finance, human services, and many others. If you're unsure whether a particular occupation qualifies, SUNY can help determine whether an existing apprenticeship occupation meets your needs or whether another registered occupation is a good fit.
Yes.
Many SUNY-supported apprenticeship programs allow apprentices to earn college credit that can be applied toward a certificate or degree.
Registered Apprenticeship provides a structured approach to developing employees by combining paid employment, hands-on learning, Related Instruction, mentorship, and a clearly defined training plan. Apprentices progress through established work processes and ultimately earn a nationally recognized credential, with opportunities for college credit in many programs.