Public SUNY community college in Schenectady offering 50+ degree and certificate programs with strong workforce development.
SUNY Schenectady offers over 50 degree and certificate programs organized into six academic divisions: Business and Professional Programs, Center for Aviation Sciences, School of Hotel, Culinary Arts and Tourism, Liberal Arts, Math/Science/Technology/Health, and School of Music. The college provides both traditional classroom instruction and online learning options. Students can earn Associate degrees (A.S. and A.A.S.) and certificates, with transfer pathways to four-year institutions including a partnership with SUNY Delhi for bachelor's degrees in Hospitality Management, Business & Technology Management, and Nursing.
The college occupies a 57-acre urban campus in downtown Schenectady featuring multiple academic buildings including Elston Hall, the Begley Library, Center for Science and Technology, and specialized facilities for culinary arts, music, and aviation. Student amenities include the Casola Dining Room, college store, student center, and childcare facilities. The campus has undergone significant expansions since 1978, most recently a $6.3 million culinary arts expansion completed in 2007. Athletics are offered through NJCAA competition with teams in baseball, basketball, bowling, and crew.
The college welcomes both recent high school graduates and adult learners returning to education. The admissions office offers in-person and virtual appointments, with walk-in options available during business hours. Students are eligible for benefits including CDTA bus passes, YMCA memberships, and free campus parking (with Student Activity fee). The college participates in SUNY Reconnect, allowing New York residents aged 25–55 without a degree to earn a free degree in high-demand fields.
Tuition for New York State residents is $3,936 per year for full-time study or $164 per credit for part-time (2017–2018 rates). Non-residents pay $7,872 annually or $328 per credit. Additional expenses average $1,247 for full-time students. The college does not offer on-campus housing. Career and Transfer Services provides individualized support for employment and transfer to four-year institutions, with articulation agreements and transfer partnerships available.