ITT Technical Institute closed all of its campuses nationwide, including a location in Liverpool. Some students were just a few months away from graduating. Our Iris St. Meran tells us how some location institutions are stepping in to help out.
LIVERPOOL, N.Y. -- It's the start of the school year, yet there was no activity outside of the Liverpool campus of ITT Technical Institute. After more than 50 years the technical school closed all of its campuses nationwide. The Attorney General said this follows a decision of the U.S. Department of Education to suspend federal aid to new students enrolling at ITT.
His office said it is based on the grounds that ITT failed to meet its accreditor’s standards. University College at Syracuse University is opening its doors to students.
"We're really excited about being able to support ITT Tech students who unfortunately went to school, went to class and found the doors locked. We're excited to offer them access to part-time study as well as full time study at Syracuse," said Bea Gonzalez, University College Dean.
The programs that are transferable from ITT Tech to University College include IT, Knowledge Management and Creative Leadership. Eligible students could start as early as October.
Onondaga Community College is also offering opportunities for students to enroll. The provost says the credits will not transfer over because it was a for-profit institution that was not regionally accredited but there are still options
"You can get six courses out of the way in one semester in no time," said Daria J. Willis, OCC Provost and Senior Vice President of Academic Affairs. "So, although we won't be able to accept those credits we will be able to put them on a fast track way to get them to earn their degree and move on to whatever degrees and job opportunities are out there for them."
Both institutions are offering open houses and outreach to speak one on one with students. They said reach out and find out what might be best for you.
Attorney General Eric Schneiderman released a statement regarding the closure of ITT Tech. He wants students to understand their options.
Schneiderman said in part, “Many hardworking New York students have enrolled at ITT campuses across the state and invested significant time and resources into their education. That is why my office wants to ensure all students affected by ITT’s closure clearly understand their options moving forward. I encourage those with student loans to consult tips from my office and from the Department of Education in order to advance and restart their education as quickly and inexpensively as possible.”
University College call (315) 443-3261for an academic advising appointment. They also have an open house schedule September 13 at 12 p.m. and September 15 at 5 p.m. University College, 700 University Avenue, Syracuse.
OCC’s special outreach event designed specifically for impacted students is scheduled for Saturday, September 17 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. in the Gordon Student Center on the OCC campus, 4585 West Seneca Turnpike, Syracuse, NY 13215. Staff will be on hand to assist students with academic program options, advising, placement testing and financial aid.