The Education Propelling into Careers (E.P.I.C.) at Metropolitan College (MCNY) logo.

In This Story

    DCAS in partnership with Metropolitan College of New York (MCNY), has launched the Education Propelling into Careers (E.P.I.C.) program. City employees will be able to obtain a high school equivalency diploma and 27 college credits through this innovative new program.

The Education Propelling into Careers (E.P.I.C.) at Metropolitan College (MCNY) logo and photo of Shauna Glover.

In This Story

    I would like to thank Commissioner Molina for the chance to be an MCNY EPIC program scholar. With this opportunity, I feel like I can gain a successful career for my future. The staff and professors are very supportive, and willing to help you succeed. They also provide tutoring and 1on1 zoom meetings to keep you on track. I would encourage other city employees to apply, it’s never too late to further your education. - Shauna Glover

The Education Propelling into Careers (E.P.I.C.) at Metropolitan College (MCNY) logo and photo of Brandon Maeweather.

In This Story

    Returning to school for my high school diploma has been an incredibly transformative experience. I’ve encountered many challenges and triumphs that shape my academic abilities and my personal growth. The skills I’m acquiring through college writing courses have equipped me with the essential tools needed to communicate effectively. I am grateful for the opportunity to learn and grow. - Brandon Maeweather

The Education Propelling into Careers (E.P.I.C.) at Metropolitan College (MCNY) logo and photo of Luis Caraballo.

In This Story

    My experience with the EPIC Program has been truly life changing. I never thought I could do this, especially after being out of school for over 25 years. I felt rusty and unsure about jumping straight into college. However, at this stage of my life, with my strong belief in God, I decided to walk through the door He opened for me. I am determined to accomplish what I missed in my youth and to excel in this new chapter. - Luis M Caraballo

Commissioner Molina and Director join the first cohort on their first day of class.

    It was the first day of class for the inaugural class of the groundbreaking new pilot program for DCAS staff. The E.P.I.C. program offers current city employees the chance to earn their high school equivalency along with 27 college credits.

Education Propelling into Careers (EPIC) Program for Municipal Employees

Launched in 2025, the EPIC program is a collaborative effort between the Department of Citywide Administrative Services (DCAS) and the Metropolitan College of New York (MCNY) to provide eligible City employees the opportunity to earn a high school equivalency diploma and college credits concurrently. This initiative supports career growth and educational advancement for municipal employees, helping to address the educational needs of participants and improve long-term career prospects.

Program Overview

The EPIC program allows up to 20 City employees the opportunity to obtain a high school equivalency diploma and earn 27 college credits over the course of up to four semesters. The inaugural citywide cohort will begin in Fall 2025.

Selected participants will need to complete a total of nine courses to graduate from the program. Classes will be held both in-person at the MCNY campus (60 West Street in lower Manhattan) and online. Participants will spend one full workday (7 hours) per week earning their degrees, which will count as a regular workday. All applicants must take an Accuplacer test, which assesses program readiness in arithmetic, reading comprehension, and writing skills to determine eligibility and placement to the program.

Who Should Be Nominated

Nominees to the EPIC program should be City employees who:

  • Are full-time employees and are 18 years or older
  • Do not possess a high school diploma, high school equivalency diploma or GED
  • Have worked for the City for at least one year
  • Are self-motivated to complete all required homework assignments
  • Are endorsed by their supervisor and agency leadership

How To Apply (2025 – 2026 EPIC Program)

  1. Learn about the EPIC program
    1. Register for an information session
    2. EPIC Program Frequently Asked Questions
  2. Fill out an application
    1. 2025-2026 EPIC Program Application
  3. Submit completed application to your agency personnel officer or designee by June 13, 2025
  4. Agency supported candidates with completed applications will be invited to take the Accuplacer test at the MCNY campus. Highest scoring candidates will be invited for a 15-30 minute structured interview with DCAS.

Selection Criteria/Process

Cohort participants will be selected based on various criteria including, candidate’s ability to commit to completion of program, Accuplacer scores and interview responses.

Contact Us

If you have any questions about this program, please email EPICprogram@dcas.nyc.gov or call (212) 386-0012.