Adirondack colleges join forces

PAUL SMITHS, NY (08/13/2014)(readMedia)-- Paul Smith's College and SUNY Adirondack signed a dual admissions agreement Tuesday, Aug. 5, making it easier for students in the Queensbury area to earn a bachelor's degree in recreation or hospitality.

Students who opt into the program will simultaneously enroll in both colleges. Upon completion of their associate degree from SUNY Adirondack, they will transfer into one of two bachelor's degree programs at Paul Smith's: hotel, resort and tourism management or recreation, adventure education and leisure management.

"This agreement makes the students' transition into Paul Smith's straightforward and simple," said Christie Casey, Paul Smith's Accelerated Continuing Education program manager. "It should feel seamless."

Hospitality students can choose to pursue their bachelor's degree in residency at Paul Smith's College or the SUNY Adirondack campus through the continuing education program, known as ACE. Students in the recreation program, however, must finish their bachelor's in residency at Paul Smith's.

All students who take part in the dual admissions program will save money by studying at the community college during their first two years.

"This agreement benefits the entire region," said John W. Mills, president of Paul Smith's College. "It makes things easier for the student, and it qualifies many more of them for the regional workforce. It's a win win."

ABOUT PAUL SMITH'S COLLEGE

At Paul Smith's College, it's about the experience. Paul Smith's, which was founded in 1946, is the only bachelor's degree-granting institution of higher education in the Adirondacks. Our programs – in fields including hospitality, culinary arts, forestry, natural resources, entrepreneurship and the sciences – draw on industries and resources available in our own backyard while preparing students for successful careers anywhere. For more information: www.paulsmiths.edu.