Ritchie Helps Suny Canton Win Ok to Grow

 College to Add New Degree to Meet Demand

State Senator Patty Ritchie is hailing the State Education Department’s approval of a new four-year, Applied Psychology degree program for SUNY Canton. Senator Ritchie had urged officials to grant the college’s request.

“This is just another example of how SUNY Canton is leading the way in offering innovative degree programs that provide real employment opportunities for those who want to find a fulfilling career,” State Senator Patty Ritchie said. “Shortly after I was elected, I toured SUNY Canton and school officials asked me to support their effort to obtain permission to offer this new specialized degree program.”

“Since 1997, SUNY Canton has added over 20 career oriented bachelor’s degree programs that are helping graduates find jobs, even in this tough economy,” Senator Ritchie said. “The four year programs have helped SUNY Canton dramatically increase its enrollment, making the college one of St. Lawrence County’s major economic engines and job creators. Helping the college offer new programs and fields of study helps attract new students to the college and helps insure that the school will continue to grow, providing new jobs to the people of St. Lawrence County.”

“Psychology is one of the most popular majors for entering freshmen,” said SUNY Canton President Joseph L. Kennedy. “We’ve created our own version of the popular program by designing a degree that allows students to graduate and immediately start their chosen careers. Adapting career-driven educational strategies are really what we do best at SUNY Canton.”

“I thank both SUNY Administration and Senator Patty Ritchie for backing this program,” President Kennedy said. “Their wisdom will help us supply a new contingent of professionals to address the shortage of qualified employees at our area agencies.”