Program Introduction

York N.O.W is York College's umbrella initiative for Workforce Development & Continuing Education, launching in Spring 2026. It replaces earlier continuing education structures and unifies programming under one clear, student-centered brand.

N.O.W stands for:

NEXT - Career advancement and upskilling
OPEN - Creative exploration and community learning
WORKS - Job-ready training and employment support

York N.O.W is designed to meet the diverse needs of Southeast Queens and beyond by simplifying access to education and training, aligning programs with labor-market needs, and encouraging learners to ask:

"What's Your N.O.W?"

Vision

York N.O.W empowers individuals to thrive through career-focused and lifelong learning opportunities. We deliver innovative, industry-aligned programs that generate sustainable revenue, create pathways to York College credit enrollment, embed workforce development into every offering, and foster joyful learning experiences—strengthening Southeast Queens and beyond.

Mission

York N.O.W will be recognized as a leading hub for workforce innovation and community advancement. We envision a future where every learner has access to transformative opportunities that connect education to employment, drive economic growth, and inspire personal fulfillment, creating seamless pathways to thriving careers and lifelong learning in a global economy.

York N.O.W Four Pillars

Drive Sustainable Revenue Growth
Establish York N.O.W as a financially strong initiative by offering high-demand programs and services that generate consistent revenue streams to support innovation and expansion.
Create Seamless Pathways to Credit Enrollment
Design non-credit programs that serve as bridges to York College degree programs, helping learners’ transition smoothly into credit-bearing courses and long-term academic success.
Integrate Career and Workforce Development
Embed industry-aligned skills and certifications into every learning experience, ensuring participants gain practical competencies that lead to employment and career advancement.
Foster Opportunities for Joyful, Lifelong Learning
Provide engaging, accessible, and enriching programs that inspire curiosity, creativity, and personal growth—making York N.O.W a hub for community learning and empowerment.

Pathways & Program Types

YORK–NEXT:

Certificate programs, advanced skills courses, and professional development for working adults and mid-career professionals.