Why Choose SUNY Niagara as an Adult Learner?

Free Tuition Through SUNY ReConnect
Free Tuition Through SUNY ReConnect Eligible adults can earn a free associate degree. The SUNY ReConnect program covers the full cost of tuition, fees, books, and supplies, after all financial aid is applied.
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Flexible Course Options
SUNY Niagara understands the needs of working adults. That's why we offer classes that fit your life. Flexible options include evening, weekend, online, hybrid, part-time, and full-time study.
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Student Support Built for Adults
Support includes dedicated advisors for adult learners, career and résumé services, prior learning credit, financial aid help, and child care resources.
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SUNY Niagara at Night
SUNY Niagara at Night offers flexible evening and online classes designed for working adults, with multiple start dates and part-time or full-time options. Students can earn credit for prior learning, including work and military experience. Support services include academic advising, tutoring, career help, childcare, and financial aid assistance.


Microcredentials and Certificates
A microcredential is a short, focused program that certifies specific skills or knowledge in a particular area, often stackable towards a larger qualification.
SUNY Niagara offers flexible microcredentials and certificates designed for adult learners to enhance skills, advance careers, or transition fields. These stackable programs are available in online and hybrid formats, making them ideal for working adults.
The Direct Support Professional Microcredentials are offered in collaboration with the Office for People With Developmental Disabilities (OPWDD) and the National Alliance for Direct Support Professionals (NADSP). This series includes three levels: DSP-I, DSP-II, and DSP-III, which provide up to 21 accredited credits. The program is designed for those working in developmental disabilities support services. In addition to the credits, students can earn industry-recognized certifications and financial incentives upon successful completion.
- Format: Online with hands-on learning opportunities
- Incentive: Up to $2,250 upon completion
- Industry Recognition: Aligns with NADSP certification levels
The Substance Abuse Services Microcredential provides 12 credits and includes core courses in chemical dependency counseling. It’s a great fit for individuals working in or entering the field of addictive disorders. This microcredential is particularly valuable for those seeking the New York State CASAC-T (Certified Alcohol and Substance Abuse Counselor – Trainee) credential.
- Courses Include: Introduction to Addictions, Substance Abuse Interventions, and Diversity in Chemical Dependency Counseling
- Pathway: Can lead to a full Associate’s degree in Human Services
- Format: Available in flexible online options
SUNY Niagara offers a series of Business Microcredentials ideal for professionals looking to enhance their managerial and entrepreneurial skills. These programs, each worth 9 credits, are available in areas like marketing, entrepreneurship, and global management. These credentials are perfect for adult learners seeking to advance in their business careers or manage their own businesses.
- Microcredentials Available:
- Marketing Managerial Basics
- Entrepreneurial Basics
- Global Management Skills
- Format: Available online for convenience
For adults interested in art history, SUNY Niagara’s Art History Microcredential offers courses such as American Art, Ancient to Gothic Art, and a capstone project. This program is ideal for those pursuing careers in museum studies, cultural heritage, or art-related fields. The microcredential culminates in a virtual art gallery exhibit, allowing students to showcase their learning.
- Courses Include: American Art, Ancient to Gothic Art, and 14th to 19th Century Art
- Capstone Project: Virtual Art Gallery Exhibit
The Disability Awareness Microcredential is designed for professionals working with individuals with disabilities. The program provides foundational knowledge in human services systems and addresses disabilities from birth through adolescence as well as aging-related disabilities. It’s an excellent choice for those in healthcare, education, or social work.
- Courses Include:
- Introduction to Human Services
- Disabilities: Birth Through Adolescence
- Disabilities and Aging
For adults in the foodservice industry, the ServSafe Microcredential focuses on food safety and industry best practices. The course material is aligned with the standards set by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration and other regulatory bodies. This certification is a valuable addition for anyone looking to advance in or enter the foodservice industry.
- Focus: Food safety and regulations
- Format: Non-credit, ideal for those seeking foodservice certifications
Niagara County Hot Jobs
SUNY Niagara collaborates with Niagara County WorkSourceOne to train adult learners for in-demand careers across Western New York.
These programs at SUNY Niagara lead directly to careers listed in the Hot Jobs! section of WorkSourceOne
WorkSourceOne Job Listing | SUNY Niagara Program Match |
---|---|
CNC Machinist / Manufacturing Tech | Advanced Manufacturing (AAS) |
Registered Nurse / LPN | Nursing (RN), Practical Nursing Certificate |
Cybersecurity Analyst | Computer Information Systems (AS) + Cybersecurity Microcredentials |
Medical Assistant / Patient Services | Health Studies (AS), Allied Health Certificate |
CDL Driver, Warehouse Operator | Logistics / Supply Chain Microcredential |
Police Officer / Corrections Officer | Criminal Justice (AS, AAS) |
Bookkeeper / Accounting Clerk | Business Administration (AAS), Accounting Microcredential |
Early Childhood Teacher Assistant | Human Services (AAS), Early Childhood Courses |
Your Path to Success Begins Here
We’re Here to Help You Get Started
Have questions about admissions, financial aid, or your eligibility for free tuition? Our support team and live advisors are here to guide you every step of the way.

Contact
- Phone: 716-614-6200
- Fax: 716-614-6444
- Email: admissions@niagaracc.suny.edu
- Location: A-105 Notar Administration Building
- Office Hours: Monday-Friday, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.
