College Launches Two New Degree Programs for Fall 2026
May 27, 2026
Hudson Valley Community College is expanding its academic offerings with the launch of two new degree programs beginning in Fall 2026: an Aviation Maintenance Management A.O.S. degree and an Earth Science A.S. degree. Together, these programs reflect the college’s continued commitment to meeting workforce demands while creating clear pathways for student advancement in both technical and scientific fields.
“These new programs are another example of how Hudson Valley is creating focused educational opportunities that lead directly to career and transfer success. Whether students are advancing in the aviation industry or preparing for future study and careers in the earth sciences, these degrees are designed to give them the knowledge, skills and support they need to move forward with confidence. We’re proud to continue expanding programs that deliver real value for our students and for the region,” said college President Michael Brophy.
The new Aviation Maintenance Management A.O.S. degree is designed to create expanded professional opportunities for individuals already working in the aviation industry. This 64-credit program specifically serves students who hold an Aviation Maintenance Technician certification issued by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). Recognizing the rigor of FAA licensure, the college will award 34 credits for prior learning, allowing students to complete the program with an additional 30 credits focused on business management, communications, supervision and leadership.
By bridging technical expertise with organizational leadership skills, the program equips graduates to take on advanced roles within aviation maintenance operations. Students will gain the ability to apply FAA regulations, manage contract structures and utilize data-driven tools to inform decision-making. In addition to advancing into management roles, graduates will also be well prepared to pursue further education through bachelor’s degree programs. Aviation mechanics and service technicians currently earn a median annual salary of more than $77,000.
This new program represents continued growth for the college’s Aeronautical Technology Institute (ATI), located in Hangar 1 at Albany International Airport. Established in 2021 as the region’s first FAA-certificated Aviation Maintenance Technician School, ATI plays a critical role in addressing workforce needs in the aerospace sector.
In addition, the college will introduce a new Earth Science A.S. degree. Previously offered as a track within the Physical Sciences A.S. program, Earth Science is now established as a standalone major to better support student interest and academic progression.
The Earth Science A.S. degree is designed to provide a strong academic foundation in geology, meteorology and astronomy. The program prepares students for seamless transfer into a bachelor’s degree program at a four-year institution or to pursue teaching certification in Earth Science.
Graduates of the Earth Science program can pursue a wide range of careers, including geological technician, environmental engineer, conservation scientist, meteorologist, astronomer and earth science teacher. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of geoscientists is projected to grow three percent through 2034.
These two degrees are the latest additions to Hudson Valley’s expanding academic portfolio. Alongside eight programs announced earlier this academic year, they bring the college’s total offerings to nearly 100 degree and certificate programs.