The NFL Players Association Education Program provides access to high‑quality online degrees and certificate programs designed to advance the long‑term career growth of active and former NFL players, NFLPA staff and eligible family members. United by a commitment to professional development and expanded opportunity across the NFLPA community, the initiative offers flexible academic pathways tailored to diverse goals. These programs draw upon the expertise of Syracuse University’s renowned schools and colleges, including the Falk College of Sport, the Martin J. Whitman School of Management, the S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communications and College of Professional Studies (CPS).

“As a Syracuse alum, I can speak firsthand to the University’s prestige and the doors it opens—both on the field and in the boardroom. Syracuse has a rare ability to connect with athletes in a real and meaningful way, and that shared commitment is what brought us together. Partnering with NFLPA is a natural extension of everything the University already stands for,” says Justin Pugh ’12, a former NFL lineman and Syracuse alumnus.

NFL Players Association Education Program Highlights

Nationally Ranked Online Programs

Syracuse University develops and delivers a wide range of nationally recognized, fully online degree programs strengthened by dedicated online student support advisors who provide individualized guidance throughout each learner’s academic journey.

Career‑Focused Curriculum

Programs in fields such as business and project management are intentionally structured to equip modern learners with the knowledge and competencies required to advance in their current careers or transition into new professional pathways.

Support for Non‑Native English Speakers:

An online pre‑academic English program is available to help non‑native English speakers build the language proficiency necessary for success in their selected programs, courses and workshops.

“My fellow deans and I are excited to partner with the National Football League Players Association to provide the Syracuse University experience to current and former players and their family members who are interested in pursuing our robust academic offerings,” says Falk College Dean Jeremy Jordan, who last year helped establish similar partnerships with Major League Soccer, the National Hockey League, the Major League Baseball Players Association and the National Women’s Soccer League. “For athletes and professionals with unpredictable schedules, our online programs offer the perfect balance of flexibility, extensive academic support and real-world applicability–all without compromising the demands of their careers or personal circumstances,” he says.

Educational offerings will be accessible online, on campus and at Syracuse’s away centers in New York City, Washington, D.C., and Los Angeles. Dedicated admission specialists and academic advisors will work with each participant to tailor academic pathways aligned with their goals.

For more information regarding NFLPA’s partnership with Syracuse University, visit professionalstudies.syracuse.edu/nflpa.