Erie Community College (EC)

One Park Place, Elmira, NY

About
Erie Community College, located in Buffalo, New York, was founded in 1946 as the New York State Institute of Applied Arts and Sciences, one of five such tuition free institutions. In 1948 the State University of New York System was established and the school became a member, though receiving its sponsorship from Erie County and changing its name to Erie County Technical Institute. In 1960 the school moved to its permanent location, and in 1969 changed its name to Erie Community College to better reflect its services and offerings. in 1971 and 1974 the school opened additional campuses, becoming the first school outside of New York City to have multiple campuses in the state.

Academics
Erie Community COllege offers a large number of programs that allow students to choose the one that best suits their academic or career goals. Academic programs encourage transfer to four year institutions through the completion of the freshman and sophomore years of a four year education. Transfer to a four year college or university is made easier through the SUNY system, though transfer may be pursued at other colleges though requirements may vary. As a result, students wishing to transfer to private or out of state schools are encouraged to meet with a counselor to develop a curriculum and plan that best suits the desired school or schools requirements.

Career programs provide the skills and training in a particular field necessary to enter the workforce as a professional. Such programs take between one and two years to complete, and result in a certificate or associate degree that demonstrates competency in the area of study. Graduates may pursue work immediately after completion, having gained the experience and knowledge required through practical and classroom courses. These programs are designed to reflect the needs of the community.

Programs offered include:

• Automotive Technology
• Business Administration
• Criminal Justice
• Liberal Arts
• Nursing

The school also provides continuing education and adult education courses. Continuing education courses provide the opportunity to update one's professional knowledge, often required to renew one's certification or licensure. Adult education courses provide the equivalent of a high school education, allowing individuals to complete such an education and receive their GED. Enrollment in these courses typically do not require full enrollment at the school, and are ineligible for financial aid.

Admissions and Financial Aid
As a two year open enrollment institution, individuals wishing to enroll at Erie Community College will be admitted if they meet the minimum requirements for admission. Students are required to supply transcripts and standardized test scores, and may be asked to take a placement exam to determine which general education classes they will enroll in. Students are encouraged to participate in orientation and meet with a counselor to discuss goals and program curriculum. Registration for classes takes place prior to the start of each semester, with fees due shortly thereafter.

Financial aid is available in the form of loans, grants and scholarships. Students in need of financial assistance must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), the resulting student aid report (SAR) from which will be used to determine financial needs, program eligibility, and monetary awards. Students may also be eligible for state funding and aid programs. Additional financial documentation may be requested by the school to ensure that the information on the SAR is accurate. Financial aid must be reapplied for every year, prior to the start of the academic year.

Athletics
Erie Community College offers a variety of intercollegiate athletic programs that allow students to develop skills and habits, such as discipline, teamwork and good health, in a healthy environment of competition. Participating students will experience the camaraderie associated with pursuing a unified goal, and the successes and failures that are part of that goal. Students interested in participating in such programs should contact the athletic department for tryout dates and forms.

Athletic programs offered:

• Baseball
• Bowling
• Cheerleading
• Football
• Hockey
• Lacrosse
• Basketball
• Soccer
• Swimming
• Softball
• Volleyball