SUNY Canton Offers Free Associate Degrees for Adult Learners Through SUNY Reconnect

Gov. Kathy Hochul today announced that SUNY Canton will now be a part of the SUNY Reconnect initiative, which offers free associate degree tuition, fees, books, and supplies for eligible adults aged 25-55 pursuing degrees in high-demand fields.

“The cost of a college degree should never be a barrier for New Yorkers,” Governor Hochul said. “Through the expansion of SUNY Reconnect and CUNY Reconnect, education will be made affordable and accessible for more of our adult learners. Everyone should have a chance to achieve their personal and professional dreams. Now, students — no matter their age — can do just that and lend us a helping hand in high-demand industries, which will help power New York State’s economy.”

“SUNY Canton has the in-demand degree programs that students want and local employers need, and now we can offer them to eligible students for free,” said President Zvi Szafran. “We are grateful to Governor Hochul and the state legislature for their investment in our future state and local workforce through this initiative, which will have a significant impact in our community.”

Prospective students can apply for the upcoming fall 2026 semester in any one of the following eligible Reconnect degree programs:

• Apprentice Training: Industrial Trades
• Automotive Technology
• Civil Engineering Technology
• Computer Information Systems
• Construction Technology: Management
• Electrical Engineering Technology
• Engineering Science
• General Technology
• HVAC Engineering Technology
• HVAC Trades
• Mechanical Engineering Technology
• Nursing
• Physical Therapist Assistant

Eligible candidates must reside in New York, qualify for in-state tuition, and take at least 6 credits per semester (12 credits per academic year). Every program (with the exception of Nursing) requires participants to not have earned a previous degree.

Applicants are encouraged to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and must apply for New York State aid, such as TAP. To learn more about the program, visit the Reconnect info page.

Those looking to speak with an Admissions counselor can do so either in person 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday to Friday or virtually by calling (315) 386-7123. Admissions also has extended hours every Tuesday from 4 to 7 p.m. by registering at the Extended Hours webpage.

The college will also be holding an on-campus informational event 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, July 25 for prospective students and families, called Summer Splash. The day’s agenda includes discussions with admissions and financial aid representatives and tours. Complimentary lunch will be provided, followed by a kayak excursion on the Grasse River and outdoor games for the whole family. Register at the Summer Splash webpage.

“We want to make it as convenient as possible for Reconnect students to learn about the benefits of this program, so we have many options that allow them to fit us into their busy schedules over the summer,” said SUNY Canton Executive Director of Enrollment Melissa J. Evans.