SUNY Sullivan County Community College
General Information — SUNY Sullivan County Community College
About (Overview)
SUNY Sullivan County Community College, commonly known as SUNY Sullivan, is a public two-year institution located in Loch Sheldrake, New York. As part of the State University of New York (SUNY) system, it serves a regional mission of providing accessible higher education, career preparation, and transfer pathways. The college is situated on a rural 405-acre campus nestled in the Catskill Mountains, yet within two hours of New York City and Albany, combining serene surroundings with access to metropolitan opportunities.
The campus itself is conceived as a “living sustainability lab,” hosting features such as a solar farm, wind turbine, geothermal systems, organic farm, and apiary, which integrate into academic programming and campus operations. The institution offers over 40 degree, certificate, and micro-credential options spanning liberal arts, health sciences, media and arts, business, technology, and trades. The architecture of the campus, designed by Edward Durrell Stone & Associates, connects multiple academic buildings by enclosed corridors, allowing all-weather movement. Though rural in setting, the student population is cosmopolitan, with roughly 40% of enrolled students coming from outside Sullivan County. SUNY Sullivan emphasizes innovation, equity, cultural partnerships, and environmental stewardship in its mission.
Contact Information
Address: 112 College Road, Loch Sheldrake, New York 12759
Phone: (845) 434-5750
Email: admissions@sunysullivan.edu
School Facts — SUNY Sullivan County Community College
| Fact | Detail |
|---|---|
| Founding Year / Establishment | SUNY trustees approved establishment in 1962; first class admitted in 1963 |
| Type | Public community college (2-year institution, part of SUNY) |
| Campus Size | 405 acres |
| Accreditation | Accredited by Middle States Commission on Higher Education; reaffirmed in 2024 |
| Colors / Branding | Green and Gold |
| Mascot / Nickname | General Dunker / The Generals |
| Student Housing Capacity | Over 350 students in residence halls and EcoTownhouses |
| Student-Faculty Ratio | Approximately 18:1 |
SUNY Sullivan County Community College Rankings
Because SUNY Sullivan is a community college, it is not commonly ranked in broad global university rankings. Still, here is a comparative metric table:
| Ranking / Metric | Value / Note |
|---|---|
| Institutional Recognition among NY community colleges | Recognized for enrollment growth, sustainability, and workforce alignment |
| Enrollment Growth (2023) | >20% increase in new student enrollment year-over-year among SUNY community colleges |
| Net Price / Affordability | Reported net cost to students around $8,916 per year after aid in recent data |
| Graduation / Completion Metrics (vocational / associate levels) | Modest rates; Niche reports a graduation rate of ~27% |
| Acceptance Rate | 100% (open admissions policy) |
SUNY Sullivan County Community College Academics
SUNY Sullivan Faculties / Departments
SUNY Sullivan does not operate in discrete “faculties” akin to large universities, but its academic structure is composed of program areas or departments that administer instruction and oversee curricular coordination. Key program departments include:
- Liberal Arts & Humanities
- Business & Entrepreneurship
- Nursing & Health Sciences
- Media Arts & Communication
- Computer & Information Technology
- Culinary & Hospitality / Culinary & Pastry Arts
- Graphic Arts / Design
- Emergency Management & Public Safety
- Trade & Applied Technologies (Green Building, Electrical, etc.)
- Science, Math & Environmental Studies
- Transfer & General Education Departments
- Workforce & Continuing Education
SUNY Sullivan Courses and Programs / Majors
SUNY Sullivan offers over 40 programs including both associate degrees and certificate options. Representative offerings include:
- Associate of Arts / Associate of Science (liberal arts, general education)
- Associate of Applied Science (nursing, media arts, computer support, emergency management)
- Certificate in Culinary Arts / Pastry Arts
- Certificate in Graphic Design / Digital Media
- Certificate in Computer Support / Information Technology
- Certificate in Green Building / Sustainable Technology
- Certificate in Emergency Management / Homeland Security
- Programs in Simulation & Gaming
- Trade certificates (residential electrical, HVAC, etc.)
- Micro-credentials / workforce training / continuing education in targeted skills
Online Learning
SUNY Sullivan offers hybrid and online course options, particularly for general education, certificate, and transfer courses. The institution continues to expand digital delivery to support students balancing work or geographic constraints. As a community college, many technical, lab, or hands-on courses still require face-to-face instruction, but the college supports virtual modalities and flexible scheduling to accommodate diverse learners.
Average Test Scores (SAT, ACT, GRE, etc.)
| Test | Typical Requirement / Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| SAT | Not required | Open admissions means standardized tests are not mandatory |
| ACT | Not required | As above, entrance does not hinge on ACT scores |
| GRE | Not applicable | Graduate-level tests not relevant at associate level |
Retention and Graduation Rates
SUNY Sullivan follows community college norms, facing challenges in student retention and program completion. While specific retention numbers are not broadly published, the institution tracks student persistence from first to second year and completion of degree or certificate. According to third-party sources, the institution’s graduation (completion) rate hovers around 27%. Student support services, enhanced advising, workforce alignment, and the strategic expansion of flexible pathways are all part of the college’s efforts to improve retention and success.
SUNY Sullivan County Community College Admissions
GPA Range and SAT / ACT Range
SUNY Sullivan operates under an open admissions policy, meaning there is no fixed GPA cutoff and standardized test scores are not required for admission. Applicants with varying academic trajectories are accepted, provided they meet minimal eligibility—such as high school diploma or equivalent—in order to foster access to higher education.
SUNY Sullivan County Community College Acceptance Rate
| Metric | Value | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance Rate | 100% | All qualified applicants are accepted, reflecting open admissions |
SUNY Sullivan County Community College Application Requirements
Applicants must complete the college’s application, submit official high school transcripts or GED documentation, or equivalent credentials. Transfer students must provide college transcripts. Proof of identity and residency may be required. Students without a diploma or GED may be eligible to enroll through a 24-Credit-Hour High School Equivalency program. Immunization records and health clearance may also be requested. Because standardized tests are not required, the emphasis is on educational background, readiness, and alignment with college expectations.
Application Process
- Complete and submit the SUNY Sullivan application, indicating degree program or certificate track
- Submit high school transcript, GED documentation, or equivalent credentials
- For transfer students, submit college transcripts and credit evaluation
- Provide proof of identity, residency, and required immunizations or health clearance
- Attend advising or orientation session, and engage with placement and course scheduling
- Enroll in courses and begin study
SUNY Sullivan County Community College Application Deadlines / Important Dates
| Term / Program | Deadline / Date | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Fall Semester | Varies; rolling admissions | Students are encouraged to apply early due to course demand |
| Spring Semester | Prior to start of spring term | Transfer and continuing students must meet internal scheduling deadlines |
| Financial Aid / Scholarship | Early in calendar (typically prior to or concurrent with term start) | Aid processing depends on FAFSA timing |
| Orientation / Registration | Shortly before term begins | New students attend orientation to register and plan courses |
Essay Prompt
SUNY Sullivan generally does not require a formal admissions essay. If a short statement or personal statement is requested, it may ask applicants to reflect on educational goals, motivation for selecting a program, or how attendance at SUNY Sullivan fits with personal or career aspirations.
SUNY Sullivan County Community College Scholarships
SUNY Sullivan administers scholarships and grants, including institutional merit-based and need-based awards. The “Sullivan Promise Scholarship” is among such initiatives to reduce financial barriers for local students. Students are encouraged to file FAFSA and submit scholarship applications early. The college also partners with external agencies and foundations to extend funding opportunities. Scholarship amounts depend on academic performance, residency, program of study, and demonstration of financial need.
SUNY Sullivan County Community College Tuition and Fees
| Cost Type | Amount / Estimate | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| In-State (NY) Tuition (annual full time) | ~$5,664 | As reported by career databases |
| Out-of-State Tuition | ~$11,328 | Higher rate for non-NY residents |
| Fees | ~$804 per year | Institutional & campus fees |
| Room & Board | ~$12,416 | Estimated for residential students |
| Total Estimated (In-State) | ~$18,884 | With housing, fees, and tuition |
| Net Price After Aid | ~$8,916 | Reported net cost for many students after grants/scholarships |
These figures are estimates and may vary by program, credit load, residence status, and financial aid. Students should confirm with the college’s financial services.
Student Profile and Demographics — SUNY Sullivan County Community College
Student Demographics (Gender, Age, Race/Ethnicity)
SUNY Sullivan’s student body is diverse across age, background, and residence region. Gender breakdown tends toward slight female majority. According to athletics data, male share is ~48.3% and female ~51.7% in athletic-participating students, a rough proxy for campus gender distribution. Ethnically, among athletic students, racial composition includes ~41% Caucasian, ~33% Hispanic, ~16.7% African American, ~0.8% Asian, ~2.4% other. Nontraditional students (age >25) constitute a meaningful share, reflecting the community mission to serve adult learners, working students, and those returning to education.
Low-Income Students / Students with Disabilities
SUNY Sullivan serves many low-income and first-generation students, aided by its open access policy and scholarship programs. A high proportion of students receive financial aid or support to reduce costs. The college provides accommodations, disability support services, and accessibility accommodations to ensure students with disabilities can participate fully in coursework, campus life, and learning resources. Campus policies emphasize equitable access and inclusion in alignment with institutional values and state requirements.
Student Body — SUNY Sullivan County Community College
| Category | Number / Estimate | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Total Students (full + part time) | ~1,809 (per Niche estimate) | Enrollment includes both full- and part-time students |
| Full-Time Undergraduates | ~717 | Many students in full-time status |
| Part-Time Undergraduates | ~1,092 | Reflects flexible enrollment patterns |
| Acceptance Rate | 100% | Open admissions policy |
| Graduation (Completion) Rate | ~27% | Approximate completion rate for degree/certificate programs |
| Out-of-County / Commuter Students | ~40% | Many students travel from outside Sullivan County |
University Diversity
SUNY Sullivan embraces diversity of background, residency, age, and aspiration. Though rural in location, its student cohort includes many from outside the immediate county, bringing wider geographic and cultural perspectives. The racial and ethnic mix includes White, Hispanic, Black, Asian, and multiracial students, contributing to an inclusive learning climate. Adult learners, part-time students, and nontraditional students add life experience heterogeneity. The institution’s values prioritize equitable access, critical inquiry, wellness, and social justice, and it maintains programs, support systems, and cultural partnerships reflective of a diverse student community. Through partnerships with community organizations, diversity programming, and inclusive governance, SUNY Sullivan aims to foster belonging and respect across demographics.
Average Earnings
Graduates of SUNY Sullivan (associate degree holders or certificate completers) enter a variety of sectors including health care, emergency services, media and communication, business technology, hospitality, and public safety. While precise median earnings data are limited, community college graduates in similar regions typically see entry-level annual salaries in the $30,000 to $50,000 range, depending on program, employer, and local labor market. Those who transfer to four-year institutions or continue into higher degrees may experience higher long-term earnings. For technical or applied fields (nursing, IT support, emergency management), graduates may start at mid-tier wages that increase with experience and certification. The lower cost structure of the institution and reduced debt burdens can magnify return on investment for many students progressing into careers or further education.
SUNY Sullivan County Community College Faculty and Staff
Teachers and Staff
SUNY Sullivan employs a combination of full-time and adjunct faculty, administrative personnel, student services professionals, maintenance and infrastructure staff, and support roles in advising, counseling, financial aid, library services, and IT. The faculty count is around 101 members, as reported in institutional summaries. Faculty are responsible for teaching, assessment, student mentoring, program development, and community engagement.
Faculty Profiles (Expertise, Achievements)
Faculty at SUNY Sullivan often hold terminal or advanced degrees in their respective fields, balancing teaching, scholarship, and service. Many possess experience in regional industries or professions aligned with program areas (health, technology, media, business). Faculty achievements include awards such as SUNY Chancellor’s Awards, publication in academic and professional outlets, leadership in curriculum development, and partnership with local community organizations. Their work integrates sustainability, applied research, and workforce alignment. Because the college is small, faculty-student relationships are often close, allowing mentorship and individualized support. Faculty regularly participate in accreditation, assessment processes, and cross-campus initiatives to enhance educational effectiveness.
SUNY Sullivan County Community College Campus and Student Life
Campus Life / Housing
Although SUNY Sullivan is primarily a commuter institution, it does provide residential options for students. The campus offers residence halls and EcoTownhouses with combined housing capacity for over 350 students. Many students reside in these facilities, while others commute or live in nearby towns. Campus life includes a variety of student clubs, athletic programs, events, theater performances, cultural initiatives, and sustainability projects tied to the organic farm and green infrastructure. The student union, performance spaces (e.g. Seelig Theatre), outdoor areas, and campus gardens serve as focal points for social, cultural, and academic interaction. Residential students often engage more deeply in campus community, support networks, and extracurricular life.
Transportation
SUNY Sullivan’s rural location means many students rely on private vehicles, carpooling, or regional bus connections to reach campus. The campus is accessible via local roads connecting to surrounding towns and highways. Within campus, walkable corridors and enclosed connections between buildings ease mobility, and the architectural design supports all-weather indoor access. While public transit options may be limited in rural areas, student shuttle arrangements or regional bus links may serve some students. The layout and infrastructure emphasize pedestrian access and proximity among academic, residential, and student services buildings to minimize transit needs and support daily navigation on foot.