NHL Announces Educational Partnership With Syracuse University

The National Hockey League (NHL) has entered into a multi-year partnership with Syracuse University aimed at supporting the professional and personal development of NHL players and their families.

The collaboration will offer players access to undergraduate, graduate, and executive education programs through Syracuse’s online learning platform at significant tuition discounts.

Emphasising the league’s commitment to players’ holistic development, NHL deputy commissioner Bill Daly, said: “Providing players with off-ice resources that can assist them in building successful careers and lives beyond their commitment to playing the game is an important role for any sports league.”

“By partnering with a learning institution of Syracuse University’s caliber, the NHL has been able to add yet another valuable Player Development offering,” Daly said.

Sharing how the partnership underscores the university’s mission to bridge academic learning and professional practice, Syracuse University’s dean, Jeremy Jordan, added: “Through collaboration across our colleges, we’ll provide NHL players with comprehensive educational resources.”

“This exemplifies our mission to create meaningful connections between academic learning and professional practice,” Jordan noted.

Under the agreement, Syracuse University will provide tailored educational programs across a range of disciplines including Business Management, Sport Analytics, Strategic Communications, Entrepreneurship, and Healthcare Administration through its Falk College of Sport, Whitman School of Management, Newhouse School of Public Communications, and College of Professional Studies.

Participants will also receive full academic advising and career-aligned support to help them transition successfully beyond their playing careers.

This collaboration enhances the NHL’s Player Development Program, which was launched in 2016 to provide ongoing education, career transition support, and personal growth opportunities for current and former players.

Other initiatives under this program include AthLife Education and Career Development, Broadcast Training Camp, Mental Wellness (Headspace), and NHL Coaches’ Association programs.

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