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Advanced Studies

Certificate
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Certificate

Challenge yourself inside—and outside—the classroom.

The Advanced Studies Certificate is designed for high-achieving students who want to deepen their learning and make the most of their college experience. As a member of MCC's Honors Institute, you'll participate in challenging coursework, unique experiential learning opportunities, and meaningful connections with faculty and fellow students. 
DEPARTMENT
Honors Institute

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Program Options
CERT
Certificate

What You’ll Learn

 In MCC's Advanced Studies certificate program, you'll learn how to: 

  • Think Critically — Analyze complex ideas, questions, and issues from multiple perspectives 
  • Communicate Effectively — Develop the ability to express ideas clearly through writing, discussion, and presentations 
  • Conduct Academic Inquiry — Explore topics in greater depth through research, investigation, and scholarly exploration 
  • Collaborate with Others — Engage in interdisciplinary learning and work alongside other motivated students 
  • Apply Learning Beyond the Classroom — Connect coursework to real-world experiences, events, service opportunities, and cultural activities 
  • Develop Leadership Skills — Build confidence as a thinker, researcher, leader, and engaged citizen 

Build Key Skills

Critical Analysis
Scholarly Research
Leadership
Interested in something else? Explore by your interests
 

 

Why Advanced Studies? 

The Advanced Studies Certificate is designed for students who want to get more out of their college experience. The certificate is completed alongside your MCC degree and serves as a SUNY-recognized credential that highlights your academic achievement. 

Strengthen Your Transfer Applications 

Honors coursework, research experiences, and academic enrichment activities can help you stand out when applying to four-year colleges and universities. The Advanced Studies Certificate appears on your transcript and demonstrates your willingness to pursue challenging academic opportunities. 

Enhance Your Degree

The certificate is earned alongside your chosen MCC degree, allowing you to explore honors-level learning regardless of your major. Whether you're studying business, healthcare, STEM, social sciences, or the arts, you'll gain experiences that complement and enhance your academic program.

Build Skills for Future Success

Through advanced coursework, research, leadership opportunities, and experiential learning, you'll develop communication, critical thinking, collaboration, and problem-solving skills that are valuable in both academic and professional settings. These experiences can strengthen your résumé, scholarship applications, and future career opportunities.

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Applying to MCC is free, with no college essay or test scores required. 
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Program Details

The Advanced Studies certificate offers two options:
Cert

Certificate

Advanced Studies Certificate: Students challenge themselves through honors courses, experiential learning, faculty mentorship, and co-curricular activities.  

Advanced Studies with Thesis Certificate: In addition, students conduct original research, engage in advanced scholarly inquiry, and present their work publicly under faculty guidance.

Length

15-19 credit hours
Students typically complete this program in 4 semesters of full time study, alongside their associate degree program.

Location

Brighton Campus

Program Requirements

Courses & Prerequisites

Important Links

Honors Institute

The Honors Advantage

Learn About MCC's Honors Insitute
The Advanced Studies Certificate offers more than honors coursework. Through MCC's Honors Institute, you'll join a community of academically motivated students, build meaningful connections with faculty mentors, and engage in experiences that enrich your education and prepare you for future success.

Honors-Level Learning

Participate in small honors courses designed for students who want to explore ideas in greater depth and challenge themselves academically. Honors coursework encourages critical thinking, discussion, creativity, and intellectual curiosity.

Faculty Mentorship

Develop meaningful relationships with Honors Institute faculty who can provide academic guidance, support, mentorship, and recommendations as you pursue your educational and professional goals.

Beyond the Classroom

Expand your learning through cultural events, field trips, guest speakers, volunteer opportunities, research projects, and other experiences that connect classroom concepts to the world around you.

 

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