Jim Moore / July 30, 2025
SUNY Corning Community College (SUNY CCC) is now offering eligible adult learners the opportunity to earn an associate degree completely free through the SUNY Reconnect initiative—a monumental expansion of access to higher education for New Yorkers seeking retraining and career advancement.
What is SUNY Reconnect?
This statewide program, known as SUNY Reconnect or the New York State Opportunity Promise scholarship, provides full tuition, mandatory fees, textbooks, and supplies (after applying other aid such as TAP or Pell) to New York residents aged 25–55 without a college degree. The scholarship applies to both full- and part-time enrollment in approved associate‑degree programs at any SUNY community college.
Available at SUNY Corning
At SUNY CCC, eligible students can pursue free associate degrees in a range of high‑demand fields. Programs currently available under SUNY Reconnect include:
- Chemical Dependency Counseling
- Computer Science (A.S.)
- Cybersecurity (A.S.)
- Education Studies (Teacher Education Transfer)
- Electrical Technology: Electronics (A.A.S.)
- Engineering Science (A.S.)
- Environmental Science (A.S.)
- Information Technology (A.A.S.)
- Machine Tool Technology (A.A.S.)
- Mechanical Technology: CAD Design (A.A.S.)
- Mechatronics (A.A.S.)
- Nursing (A.A.S., admission required)
These technical and health‑related programs are specifically chosen for their strong connection to careers in advanced manufacturing, technology, cybersecurity, education, and allied health—all fields in which demand is growing across New York State.
Who Can Apply?
Applicants must:
- Be a New York State resident or eligible for in‑state tuition
- Be between 25 and 55 years old as of the first day of the semester
- Not hold any previous associate or bachelor’s degree (though prior college credits, certificates, or micro‑credentials are okay)
- Be enrolled in one of the approved degree programs at SUNY CCC
- Commit to at least 6 credits per semester and complete within 10 semesters (though part‑time attendance is accepted)
Information Session & Next Steps
SUNY CCC recently hosted a SUNY Reconnect information session on July 21, 2025, where prospective students could learn more about the program and start the application process. Another session is scheduled for August 4, 2025, with options at 7:30 a.m., 1:30 p.m., 3:30 p.m., and 4:30 p.m. on campus (Hanley Room, Library).
Interested individuals are encouraged to apply online via the SUNY CCC website and fill out a Request for Information form specific to SUNY Reconnect. Once accepted, students go through enrollment steps like transcript submission, scheduling admissions advising, completing FAFSA and TAP, and activating their MyCorning account for online course registration and financial aid viewing.
Support for Adult Learners
SUNY CCC emphasizes support services tailored to adult students, including dedicated advising, flexible class schedules (evening, weekend, hybrid, and online), and access to academic assistance like tutoring and the Learning Center. Online learning options are also available through Brightspace and Open SUNY platforms.
Local Impact & Economic Opportunity
SUNY Reconnect at SUNY CCC is part of a broader statewide initiative aimed at empowering adults to enter or re‑enter the workforce with valuable credentials. According to state officials and media reports, associate degrees in nursing, cybersecurity, engineering, and manufacturing open doors to jobs with starting salaries in the $70,000–$80,000 range and beyond.
For adults in Chemung, Schuyler, Steuben counties, and nearby regions, SUNY CCC offers a locally accessible pathway to employable credentials—without the financial burden traditionally associated with college.
Residents interested in SUNY Reconnect at SUNY Corning Community College can visit the college’s SUNY Reconnect page to request information, check eligibility, and apply or contact admissions at 607‑962‑9151 for personalized assistance.
