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CNY ATC Program Pathways

Your Path to Teaching Starts Here

The Central New York Alternative Teacher Certification Program (CNY ATC) is a fully grant-funded initiative that provides a pathway to New York State Initial Teacher Certification. The program is designed for individuals who have completed at least 40 college credits and are currently working in classroom settings.

Which Pathway is Right For You?

  • Upskilling Pathway: Have 40+ college credits and working toward your bachelor’s degree? This path is for you.
  • Alternative Certification Pathway: Already have (or almost have) your bachelor’s degree? This option could be your best fit.

Quick Comparison

Pathway Upskilling Pathway Alternative Certification Pathway
Starting point 40+ college credits Bachelor’s degree completed (or near completion)
Program level Undergraduate Graduate
Format Online Online
Outcome Bachelor’s Degree + NYS Initial Teacher Certification Master of Teaching + NYS Initial Teacher Certification

Visit our Apply page to learn more about the application process and take the next step toward teacher certification.

CNY Alternative Teacher Certification Partners Logos (From left to right: SUNY Cortland logo, CiTi BOCES logo, OCM BOCES logo, Tompkins Cortland Community College logo, TST BOCES logo, and SUNY Empire State logo)