SUNY's community colleges are essential engines of student success and upward mobility. From microcredentials to industry-recognized certifications to associate degrees, community colleges prepare students of all ages for both immediate success in the workforce and for transfer to bachelor’s degree-granting programs.
SUNY has 30 community colleges across New York State annually providing, as of fall 2025, nearly 174,000 students degree and non-degree programs that prepare them for transfer to a four-year college, to enter a career/workforce, and/or pursue promotional opportunities. Community colleges are the largest of the four SUNY sectors with another 90,000+ students in non-credit courses.
SUNY's community college sector is open access bringing an expanded opportunity for high quality post-secondary education to students who might not otherwise have such an opportunity. This includes high school students with a wide range of college preparedness, adults interested in returning to school to gain necessary skills to advance in the workforce, and students transferring from other colleges, including SUNY four-year schools.
The Office of Community College's major focus areas include:
The SUNY Community Colleges ensure open access to high quality postsecondary education and contribute significantly to the development of an educated citizenry and skilled workforce. They offer comprehensive learning opportunities ranging from transfer and career degrees to programs customized to serve specific individual, community, business and economic development needs. All share a dedication to instruction and services that nurtures the academic and personal achievement of individuals with diverse backgrounds and aspirations.
The SUNY Community Colleges, individually and as a system, are leaders in higher education in New York State and in the nation. They are highly effective in responding to the educational needs of all people and the local, regional, state and global communities to which they belong. Innovative and flexible learning options, strategies and technologies characterize their array of constantly evolving programs and services in general education, workforce training, community service and economic development.