Business Administration A.A.S.

If you're looking for an affordable, flexible way to build practical business skills, SUNY Schenectady’s Business Administration Associate in Applied Science (A.A.S.) program is designed with you in mind. Whether you're a working adult aiming to advance or pivot in your career, an entrepreneur ready to bring your ideas to life, or a student seeking hands-on learning and professional development, this program offers the tools and support to help you move forward — on your terms.

What You’ll Learn

This program emphasizes practical, career-ready skills through real-world learning opportunities. You’ll complete a flexible, hands-on curriculum that may include:

• Applied business courses in entrepreneurship, sales, and management
• Project-based learning through case studies, simulations, and collaborative assignments
• Signature courses like Business Plan Development and Sales and Service, designed in partnership with local business leaders
• Internship opportunities, including a 135-hour placement with a local business or national programs like the Disney College Program

With expert faculty and small class sizes, you’ll gain the confidence, communication skills, and business acumen to succeed in today’s workforce — or launch your own venture.

Chris Wessell, Managing Partner of PeopleWise, an executive search firm, graduated from SUNY Schenectady in 2000 with his degree in Business Administration. He went on to earn his bachelor’s degree and his MBA from the University at Albany School of Business. He returns each semester for Speed Networking to share his insight with students.

“Networking skills are paramount to success,” Wessell (above, top right) said. “They’ve been a huge part of my life and the things I’ve been able to do. There are some basic skills that help you navigate life easier and Speed Networking is a great example of one of the things SUNY Schenectady does to help their students get ahead and be successful.”

Why Choose the Business Administration A.A.S. at SUNY Schenectady?

Learn by Doing — Real Projects, Real Impact

Faculty embed applied learning throughout the program, helping you build real-world skills from Day One. You’ll work on case studies, projects, and business challenges that prepare you for today’s workforce.

Exclusive Credit-Bearing Courses You Won’t Find Anywhere Else

• Business Plan Development (BUS 252): Partner with the Capital Region Chamber of Commerce’s award-winning Entrepreneur Boot Camp. Develop and pitch a full business plan while earning credit — and connect with more than 50 local entrepreneurs and advisors.
• Sales and Service (MGT 215): Learn proven sales strategies from certified Sandler Training professionals. This interactive online course gives you immediately useful skills in communication, negotiation, and customer success.

Hands-On Internships & Career-Boosting Experiences

Put your skills into practice through an optional 135-hour, credit-bearing internship with a local business — or explore national opportunities like the Disney College Program for leadership training and paid experience. These experiences are not required, but they offer valuable résumé-building opportunities and real-world insight.

Support That Moves You Forward

Whether you're launching a new venture or entering the job market, you’ll have expert support from SUNY Schenectady’s Career and Transfer Services team. Services include:

• Résumé development and interview coaching
• Job search support and career assessments
• Local employer connections and internship placement
• Guidance on transfer options if you choose to continue your education
• The Career Closet (business attire for interviews or job opportunities) 

You’ll also have access to:

• One-on-one tutoring and academic coaching
• Counseling and an on-campus food pantry
• TRIO Student Support Services
• Advancing Success in Associate Pathways (ASAP)
• Educational Opportunity Program (EOP)
• Disability accommodations
• Free CDTA bus rides and YMCA membership for student who pay the student activity fee

Flexible Scheduling for Working Adults

Choose from day, evening, hybrid, HyFlex, and online courses that fit your schedule. Learn on your time, in your way.

Affordable, Practical, Career-Ready

SUNY Schenectady offers:

• The lowest tuition in the Capital Region — save up to $30,000[1] vs. private colleges
• Financial aid and scholarships — with over three-quarters of full-time students receiving support
• Faculty with real-world experience and small class sizes for personalized instruction

Start Your Future Now

Whether you want to start a business, change careers, or advance in your field, SUNY Schenectady’s Business Administration A.A.S. program delivers real results — at an affordable price.

Take the next step today!

You can complete the free online application, or reach out to the Office of Admissions at 518-381-1366 or admissions@sunysccc.edu for more information.