A Future With All Options Open
If you are a current or recent high school student, it can feel as if your future could go in practically any direction.
But you’re also nervous about making the wrong choice. “Is college really right for me?” “What if I don’t know what I want to do with my life?” “How can I get a good job and start earning real money?” That’s only natural when you’re making a major life decision.
By beginning at a Western New York Works college, you’ll have access to several cost-effective and career-making programs that work for your life today and years from now. Earn a marketable skill in a year or two that you can build on. Transfer to a four-year school to level up your career when you’re ready. Explore several subject areas at little to no cost, gaining confidence in your path forward.
Discover how we keep your future wide open.
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Why Start Your Future With an Associate Degree or Certificate?
Nearly 40% of undergraduate students pursue an associate degree or certificate program, either to train for a career or to transfer to a four-year school. Here’s how this pathway can work for you.
Affordability
According to a College Board report for the 2025-26 school year, full-time, in-region students attending a community college paid $4,150 in tuition, compared to nearly $12,000 for an in-state public four-year college. Submitting the Free Application for Federal Student Aid® (FAFSA) also qualifies you for scholarships, grants, loans and work-study, helping decrease already-low costs.
Transfer Paths
Lower per-credit tuition, established transfer partnerships and flexible courses make community college an attractive option for high school students wanting to shoulder less debt. A report from Columbia University’s Teachers College shows that, today, anywhere from 30% to 40% of community college students use this route to complete general education and some degree requirements.
Dual Enrollment Courses
Dual enrollment opens college-level courses to students from partnering high schools, often at a reduced rate. A growing number of high schoolers take advantage of these programs to learn a skill or earn transferable credits, or even complete an associate degree. Explore WNY Works’ options.
Relevant Career Training
Relationships with local industries and businesses frequently shape a community college’s offerings. As a result, through a six- to 24-month hands-on training program, current and recent high school students are able to gain the skills for entry-level jobs in manufacturing, construction, healthcare and other rising sectors.
More Flexibility
The typical community college student is working a job or is the first in their family to pursue higher education. Recognizing this, many schools offer daytime, evening and weekend courses, as well as online-only programs.
Multiple Career Paths
Whether you have a clear plan or need more time, a certificate or an associate degree from a community college can prepare you for a rewarding career in HVAC installation, welding, nursing, construction, solar energy, medical assisting, substance abuse counseling, IT support or cybersecurity.
Career Exploration for High School Students
Are you a fixer, carer or builder? The industries thriving in Western New York are looking for someone like you. Explore common career paths and the credentials you’ll need to qualify.
Trade & College Programs by School
All participating Western New York Works colleges offer dual enrollment programs, career training, support services, transfer partnerships and lifelong upskilling opportunities. Learn more about our group of State University of New York schools and your options as a current high schooler or recent graduate.
Alfred State College (ASC)
ASC is home to a wide range of two- and four-year degree programs supported by high national rankings and strong job placement rates.
Pathways in Technology Early College High School (P-Tech)
As a Buffalo City Schools student, you have the opportunity to learn a job-ready skill through the McKinley High School Building Trades program before finishing your education at ASC.
Collaborative High School Program
Through this dual enrollment program, eligible students can take classes for college credit at their high school, on ASC’s campus or online.
2+2=MORE
Get skilled with a two-year associate degree. Then, when it’s time, boost your career with just two more years of courses to earn a bachelor’s degree. Explore all the stackable pathways ASC offers.
Online Programs
Study when and where it’s convenient for you. ASC offers several certificates, two-year associate degrees and micro-credentials with entirely online or hybrid coursework.
Extended Learning
With a new skill, you can unlock new opportunities and higher earnings! ASC’s Extended Learning programs support all stages of your professional life.
Opportunity Programs
Not sure if college is for you? ASC offers support and guidance to students concerned about their high school grades or paying for school. Learn if you’re eligible.
Genesee Community College (GCC)
Prepare for the future you want on one of GCC’s five campuses — or directly from your high school.
High School Programs
GCC has created several programs for area high schoolers, including dual enrollment, enrichment and skill-building opportunities.
BOCES Program
Through the Early College High School program, students from 22 regional districts can earn an Associate of Applied Science degree in a career-related skill alongside their high school diploma.
Transfer Pathway Programs
These planned pathways seamlessly link an associate degree from GCC with a bachelor’s program at a partnering institution.
Genesee for Life
At any career stage, GCC graduates have the option to return for tuition-free, credit-earning courses to gain new skills, switch fields or complete a transferable associate degree.
Liberty Partnerships Program
At-risk students in grades 5 through 12 receive funding and guidance as they prepare for higher education or workforce training.
Genesee Promise Plus
This scholarship for high school juniors, high school seniors and new adult college students waives tuition for up to two summer courses at GCC.
Jamestown Community College (JCC)
As the region’s first community college, JCC prepares more than 2,800 students each year for the workforce or for bachelor’s programs at partner institutions. The school offers more than 60 programs at two campuses and two extension centers.
High School Programs
JCC’s multiple dual enrollment options help area high schoolers get a head start on college. Earn college credits through your school or enroll part time in select credit-bearing courses.
Individual Courses
Try college in a format that works for you. Anyone interested can take a JCC course in person or online without directly pursuing a degree or certificate.
Transfer Partnerships
For over half of JCC students, a JCC education becomes a springboard to a bachelor’s degree and other advanced programs.
Liberty Partnerships Program
Qualifying students in Dunkirk, Jamestown and Salamanca strengthen their academic and leadership skills in preparation for college.
Information About Degrees and Programs
Learn more about the different types of short-term programs available at our schools and what they mean for your future.
The Life You Picture Starts Here
Turn hands-on learning into meaningful earnings and a future with less debt.