Tompkins Cortland Community College is accepting students for a new associate degree in cybersecurity, with classes beginning in spring 2027 and SUNY Reconnect funding available to eligible adult learners.
The associate in science program has been approved by TC3’s Board of Trustees, the State Education Department and SUNY, according to a news release from the college.
Students will study computing, networking and information security, with training in identifying vulnerabilities, protecting information and applying ethical practices. The college created five new courses for the degree, including artificial intelligence prompt engineering and ethical hacking, and added an internship opportunity.
David Green, an associate professor of computer science who led the program’s creation, said graduates can enter the workforce or transfer to a four-year program. He described cybersecurity as a field with a growing range of careers requiring an educated workforce.
TC3 said its transfer agreements include SUNY Oswego, SUNY Canton and Syracuse University. Potential jobs for graduates include cybersecurity technician, information security analyst and security operations center analyst.
Funding for adult learners
The cybersecurity degree is eligible for SUNY Reconnect, which covers tuition, fees, books and supplies after other financial aid is applied. Housing is not covered, according to the college’s SUNY Reconnect information page.
Starting in January 2027, the college says the program will be open to eligible New Yorkers ages 25 to 55, including people who already hold a college degree. Students must be at least 25 when they enroll and no older than 55 on Jan. 1 of their enrollment year. Those who turn 56 while studying can remain eligible if they meet the other requirements.
Applicants must meet New York residency requirements, enroll in a designated program and apply for financial aid through FAFSA and TAP or the New York State DREAM Act. New York residents outside Tompkins and Cortland counties must have a valid certificate of residence on file.
To maintain eligibility, students must take at least six credits a semester, complete the degree within 10 semesters, remain in an eligible program and maintain satisfactory academic progress. Applicable certificates of residence must be renewed annually, and state rules for repeated courses also apply.
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