Prospective Students
Your journey begins with us.
By beginning your higher education with Tompkins Cortland Community College, you will enjoy affordable, small classes with personalized instruction that will help you ease into your United States education experience.
- High academic standards and the support to help you meet them
- Faculty who love teaching and who support your success
- We're small enough that campus feels like family
- We take pride in our diversity and welcome all students as a part of our community
- Transition to American higher education while earning academic credits in a friendly, supportive environment
Home Away From Home
Scenic location in a center of culture
Our campus is located in a peaceful upstate New York village about four hours from New York City. Tourists and international students come to the beautiful Finger Lakes region from around the world to experience the natural beauty, flavorful food, local wine, and seasonal delights.
We are close to Cornell University, Ithaca College, SUNY Cortland, and numerous other colleges and universities – the Finger Lakes truly is a hub of higher education in the United States.
A natural paradise
Home to the 11 Finger Lakes, the region also claims the Great Lake Ontario. There are more than 100 waterfalls within 20 miles of Dryden and our campus is only three hours away from the famous Niagara Falls. Outdoor activities around Ithaca provide seasonal adventures in hiking, swimming, boating, skiing/snowboarding, fall foliage tours, and more!
Plenty to Do
Nearby vibrant Ithaca has a variety of attractions ranging from nightlife to cuisine to events. Dryden, home to TC3, is a tranquil setting for activities. Campus Life brings fun, educational, social, and leadership opportunities to you through Student Activities, Student Organizations, Athletics, the campus Fitness Center, and Recreation. Current international students are also invited to activities planned by the Global Initiatives office, such as regular International Coffee hours.
The College is located on a peaceful, rural campus in a natural setting in the small town of Dryden, New York. Transportation via public bus is available during the week and on a limited basis on weekends. Additionally, regular commercial bus service runs from Ithaca to New York City, Boston, Philadelphia, Washington, D.C., as well as a variety of other major cities in New York state.
A safe and welcoming campus
The Residence Life office manages the experience of living on campus in Dryden. Living on campus also means enjoying our Dining Services, and friendly community-based protection of our campus Safety Officers. The Office of Diversity Education and Support Services provides a welcome space for all students to celebrate their diversity.
Support every step of the way
Tompkins Cortland is here to support you so you can finish your degree successfully. This includes the option of affordable Child Care while you attend classes, as well as the Health and Wellness Services for when you need support for your well-being. Academic support from Advisors, Tutors, and Success Coaches are available to all students, as well as Transfer advising and Career Coaches.
