OCC graduates can transfer into select SU programs in new pact

SYRACUSE — A new direct-transfer admission agreement allows eligible graduates of Onondaga Community College (OCC) to pursue degrees in certain programs at Syracuse University (SU).

The agreement guarantees eligible OCC graduates with admission to academic programs in SU’s College of Arts and Sciences, College of Engineering and Computer Science, School of Information Studies, and College of Professional Studies, where they can complete a bachelor’s degree in four semesters, per SU’s Aug. 21 announcement.

To be eligible for the program, OCC graduates must have earned a minimum GPA of 3.0. Those with GPAs of 3.25 or higher will be awarded a merit-based scholarship of at least $10,000.

“Syracuse University is proud to partner with Onondaga Community College to offer a new pathway to prepare students for emerging careers,” Syracuse University Chancellor Kent Syverud said in a statement. “To fully take advantage of the economic opportunities developing in the region, we need a workforce with the training and knowledge to meet the needs of emerging industries. This new agreement makes it easier for learners from OCC to benefit from the outstanding educational opportunities available at Syracuse University while building a ready workforce for the region’s employers.”

Both OCC and SU will establish advising guidelines and course-transfer recommendations to support students in the program and “ensure their ability to complete their degrees in a timely manner.” The institutions will also work together to recruit students to the program from the Syracuse City School District and other regional schools.

“We’re honored to partner with Syracuse University on this Direct Transfer Admission Program,” OCC President Warren Hilton said. “As the community’s college, we are committed to giving students access to higher education pathways, and ultimately the opportunity to enjoy rewarding careers at places like Micron’s new chip fabrication facility right here in Onondaga County. This agreement gives our students a clearly defined pathway to one of the top institutions in the country, and we are proud to collaborate with Syracuse University for the betterment of our students and the Central New York region.”

Participants in the program may study a range of disciplines, but an “emphasis on pathways to STEM-related (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) majors will serve to prepare students” for careers at high-tech companies, including Micron Technology. The Boise, Idaho–based firm plans to build a $100 billion semiconductor fabrication facility in the town of Clay.

In this way, the program “dovetails” with OCC’s new associate degree in electromechanical technology and related electromechanical-technology certificate program, as well as existing degrees in engineering science and liberal arts: mathematics and science, SU said.