A new partnership between Tompkins Cortland Community College and Ithaca College aims to streamline the path from a two-year degree to a bachelor’s degree, while expanding financial support for students.
Leaders from both institutions are set to sign a dual admission agreement this week that will allow students to be accepted to both schools at the same time. Under the program, students will begin their studies at Tompkins Cortland Community College, then transfer directly into Ithaca College with junior status after completing an associate degree.
The agreement also includes coordinated advising between the two schools, pairing advisors to help students stay on track academically and ensure credits transfer smoothly.
College officials say the partnership reflects a broader push to create more accessible and affordable higher education pathways. Students enrolled in the program will also be eligible for Ithaca College scholarships ranging from $15,000 to $36,000 per year after transferring.
The agreement is scheduled to be formally signed during an event at 2 p.m. Friday at Baker Commons on the Tompkins Cortland campus in Dryden.
Speakers will include TC3 President Amy Kremenek, Ithaca College President La Jerne Cornish, Ithaca College Provost Melanie Stein, and TC3 Provost Aaron Tolbert.
