A graduate walks in to Commencement 2024

Adult learners

We know learning looks different for everyone, so we welcome students of all ages — whether you're coming back to higher education after a break or even earning a degree, have never attended or want some job training.
  1. Admissions and financial aid
  2. Admissions process
  3. Adult learners
Admissions Process

Classes at SUNY Adirondack have students of all ages, backgrounds and experiences. You can succeed here at any age.

"I wasn't sure what to expect, being 47 years old; I thought it would be me and however many 18-year-olds.

Ashley Cooper attended SUNY Adirondack at age 47, after his more than 20-year position was eliminated.
Ashley "Coop" Cooper, Class of 2014

Turns out, it wasn't that way; it was a good mix, and it was nice because you have almost two to three generations in there, with different perspectives."

 

 

Why choose SUNY Adirondack?

From Day One through graduation, you have access to advisors, tutors and a community invested in your success.

Flexible learning options

We offer classes online, in person at three convenient locations and in "high-flex" format (you can attend online live or watch recordings of classes on your own schedule).

Course listings

Stock image of a young woman smiling while in an on-screen meeting

Affordability

With scholarships, financial aid and payment plans, your goals are within reach — and won't leave you buried in debt.

Learn more

A decorated graduation cap is seen at Commencement 2024

Programs tailored to adult learners

A graduate holds an infant after the ceremony

Earn a degree

You can choose from more than 40 degree and certificate programs to pursue the career you want.

Learn more
Students undergo PCA training

Workforce training

Build the skills you need to start a new job, get a promotion or change fields.

Training opportunities
Students work collaboratively in a Media Arts class

Microcredentials

Take just three or four classes to gain expertise in one of 14 fields.

Learn more

You deserve credit

What you've done leading up to this point matters. We know you've worked hard and we value what you've learned — in the classroom and on the job. SUNY Adirondack offers advanced standing, granting credit for classes, work and military experience, and exams.

Learn more
Close-up image of hands working on a machine

Support designed for busy adults

Your success is important to us, so we offer the support you need to reach your goals.

Dedicated advisors

Get one-on-one guidance to help you reach your goals.

Academic advising

Kelli Hatin advises a student in her office

Career services

You learn the skills you need to do the job in the classroom. But we also help you prepare for a career search, build a resume and polish your interviewing skills so you can find — and get — the job you want.

Career Services

Brian Holtz, right, speaks with an attendee at a job fair

Tutoring and study groups

Find the help you need to excel in your courses.

Tutoring

Stephanie Drotos works with an adult student

Technology

Our campus offers tech support, computer labs and even equipment to borrow.

Tech support

Students work on a project in an on-campus Mac lab

Years in the making

Roger Harrington is shown with his family outside their home. Harrington spent more than eight years earning a degree while working full time.
Quotation

I just put one foot in front of the other and marched my way through. I chipped away at it. It seems like a million years away when you need 65 credits and you only have three, but you keep going. It became a lifestyle. If SUNY Adirondack wasn't around, there would have been no opportunity to improve my skills and knowledge. There would have been no moving forward."

Roger Harrington National Grid lineman 2015