A new degree at Tompkins Cortland Community College will help students jumpstart careers in growing health care fields — without needing to start at a four-year school.

TC3 announced the launch of a new associate in science degree in Health Sciences, starting in Spring 2026. The program has received full approval from the college’s Board of Trustees, the New York State Education Department, and SUNY.

“There is a well-documented need for professionals in the health professions,” said TC3 President Amy Kremenek. “There are high-wage, high-demand jobs in health care, with significant employment opportunities in our area, as well as statewide and nationally.”

While TC3 is already known for its long-running nursing program, the new degree focuses on expanding pathways into careers like X-ray imaging, ultrasound, respiratory therapy, and radiation therapy.

A seamless path to four-year degrees

The new program is designed to make transferring simple. TC3 has existing agreements with SUNY Upstate Medical University, SUNY Cortland, and Alfred University. Students who complete the associate degree can move directly into bachelor’s programs in related fields.

Kremenek praised the faculty and local employers who helped shape the new offering. “I’m very grateful for the work of so many people at TC3, as well as the support of local employers who recognize the necessity of this program and are eager to hire in these high-demand fields,” she said.

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